Our Summary

This research paper discusses the relationship between orthognathic surgery (a type of surgery that corrects conditions related to the structure of the jaw) and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. The paper emphasizes that orthognathic surgery not only changes the position of the jaw and how the teeth meet, but also affects the original structure and function of the TMJ.

As orthognathic surgery is increasingly used, there’s a growing interest in understanding how it impacts the TMJ. Understanding this relationship is important because it can explain how the surgery could potentially cause temporomandibular disorders (TMD), which are problems affecting the chewing muscles and joints that connect your lower jaw to your skull.

The paper also highlights the clinical significance of understanding this relationship. It can help in preventing and treating TMD in patients who have undergone orthognathic surgery. In simple terms, the more we understand about how this type of surgery affects the TMJ, the better we can manage and treat potential complications and ensure that patients have a successful recovery.

FAQs

  1. How does orthognathic surgery affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)?
  2. What is the significance of understanding the relationship between orthognathic surgery and the TMJ?
  3. How can understanding the impact of orthognathic surgery on the TMJ help in preventing and treating temporomandibular disorders (TMD)?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about jaw surgery is to follow post-operative instructions carefully, including maintaining proper oral hygiene, avoiding hard or chewy foods, and attending follow-up appointments as scheduled. It is also important for the patient to communicate any discomfort or changes in their jaw function to their doctor promptly. Additionally, patients should be aware of the potential impact of jaw surgery on the structure and function of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and follow any recommended exercises or therapies to help maintain optimal TMJ health. Proper understanding and management of the relationship between orthognathic surgery and the TMJ can help prevent and treat temporomandibular disorders (TMD) in the future.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for jaw surgery are those with severe malocclusion, facial asymmetry, difficulty with chewing or speaking, obstructive sleep apnea, temporomandibular joint disorders, or other jaw-related issues that cannot be corrected with orthodontic treatment alone. The decision to undergo jaw surgery is typically made by a team of specialists, including orthodontists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and sometimes even speech therapists or sleep medicine specialists, to ensure the best possible outcome for the patient.

Timeline

Before jaw surgery:

  • Consultation with an orthodontist and oral surgeon to discuss treatment options and plan for surgery
  • Pre-surgical orthodontic treatment to align the teeth and prepare the jaw for surgery
  • Pre-operative appointments with the surgical team to review the treatment plan and discuss any concerns or questions
  • Surgical procedure to reposition the jaw and correct any skeletal abnormalities
  • Post-surgical recovery period to allow for healing and adjustment to the new jaw position
  • Post-operative orthodontic treatment to further refine the bite and alignment of the teeth

After jaw surgery:

  • Follow-up appointments with the surgical team to monitor healing and adjust treatment as needed
  • Continued orthodontic treatment to maintain the results of the surgery and ensure proper alignment of the teeth
  • Rehabilitation exercises to improve jaw function and prevent complications
  • Long-term monitoring for any potential complications or issues related to the surgery
  • Overall improvement in facial aesthetics, bite function, and overall quality of life for the patient.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about jaw surgery include:

  1. What specific changes will be made to my jaw position and occlusion during the surgery?
  2. How will the surgery affect the structure and function of my temporomandibular joint (TMJ)?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery, particularly in relation to the TMJ?
  4. How can I prepare for the surgery to ensure the best possible outcome for my TMJ?
  5. What post-operative care and rehabilitation measures will be necessary to support the health and function of my TMJ?
  6. How will you monitor and assess the health of my TMJ before and after the surgery?
  7. Are there any alternative treatment options that may be less invasive and have a lower impact on my TMJ?
  8. Can you provide information or resources to help me better understand the relationship between orthognathic surgery and TMJ function?
  9. What steps can I take to prevent or manage temporomandibular disorders (TMD) following the surgery?
  10. How experienced are you in performing orthognathic surgery and managing TMJ-related issues in patients?

Reference

Authors: Jiang N, Zhu SS. Journal: Zhonghua Kou Qiang Yi Xue Za Zhi. 2023 Oct 9;58(10):991-995. doi: 10.3760/cma.j.cn112144-20230807-00059. PMID: 37818533