Our Summary

Orthognathic surgery is a procedure used to correct conditions of the jaw and face related to structure, growth, sleep apnea, TMJ disorders, malocclusion problems owing to skeletal disharmonies, or other orthodontic problems that cannot be easily treated with braces. This study aimed to investigate the impact of such surgery on the development or worsening of TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction, which can cause pain in your jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement.

The researchers looked at several databases to find studies related to TMJ disorders and orthognathic surgery. They narrowed down the results based on specific criteria and evaluated the risk of bias in the studies.

Five studies were included in the review. They found that more females chose surgery than males. The studies looked at various symptoms of TMJ disorders, such as pain on moving the jaw side to side, tenderness, joint pain, and popping sounds.

The results showed that people who had orthognathic surgery did not show an increase in TMJ symptoms compared to those who did not have surgery. However, in some studies, surgery patients reported more of certain TMJ symptoms than those who did not have surgery.

In conclusion, the evidence is not clear-cut, and more research is needed. The authors suggest future studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up times to better understand the impact of orthognathic surgery on TMJ.

FAQs

  1. What is orthognathic surgery and what conditions does it treat?
  2. What was the purpose of this study related to orthognathic surgery and TMJ disorders?
  3. Did the study conclude that orthognathic surgery increases TMJ symptoms?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient considering orthognathic surgery is to discuss any concerns or questions about TMJ disorders with their surgeon before proceeding with the surgery. It is important to have a thorough understanding of the potential risks and benefits of the procedure in relation to TMJ symptoms. Additionally, following post-operative care instructions and attending follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider can help ensure a successful recovery and minimize any potential complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for orthognathic surgery include those with severe malocclusions, facial asymmetry, difficulty chewing or swallowing, obstructive sleep apnea, temporomandibular joint disorders, or other skeletal abnormalities that cannot be corrected with orthodontic treatment alone. These conditions can cause functional problems such as difficulty eating or speaking, as well as aesthetic concerns. Orthognathic surgery can help improve the alignment of the jaws and teeth, leading to better function and appearance. Patients undergoing orthognathic surgery may also require orthodontic treatment before or after surgery to achieve optimal results.

Timeline

Before orthognathic surgery, a patient typically undergoes a thorough evaluation by an orthodontist and oral surgeon to determine if they are a candidate for the procedure. This evaluation may include X-rays, dental impressions, and possibly a CT scan to assess the structure of the jaw and facial bones. The patient may also need to undergo orthodontic treatment to align their teeth before surgery.

After the evaluation and treatment planning, the patient will undergo orthognathic surgery, which is usually performed under general anesthesia in a hospital setting. The surgery involves repositioning the jaw bones to correct the underlying skeletal issue. Recovery from orthognathic surgery can take several weeks, during which the patient may experience swelling, pain, and difficulty eating.

After the initial recovery period, the patient will need to follow up with their oral surgeon and orthodontist for ongoing monitoring and adjustments to their treatment plan. This may include further orthodontic treatment to fine-tune the alignment of the teeth and jaws.

Overall, the timeline for a patient undergoing orthognathic surgery includes pre-surgical evaluation and planning, the surgery itself, post-operative recovery, and ongoing follow-up care to ensure optimal results.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about orthognathic surgery and its potential impact on TMJ disorders include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with orthognathic surgery, specifically in relation to TMJ disorders?

  2. How likely is it that orthognathic surgery could worsen existing TMJ symptoms or cause new symptoms to develop?

  3. Are there any specific precautions or measures that can be taken during the surgery to minimize the risk of TMJ issues?

  4. How long after surgery should I expect any potential TMJ symptoms to improve or resolve completely?

  5. Are there any specific post-operative exercises or therapies that can help prevent or manage TMJ issues after orthognathic surgery?

  6. Will I need to see a TMJ specialist or undergo additional treatments for TMJ disorders following orthognathic surgery?

  7. How will my orthodontic treatment plan be affected if I have existing TMJ issues or develop them after orthognathic surgery?

  8. Are there any alternative treatment options or modifications to the surgical plan that could reduce the risk of TMJ complications?

  9. What is the long-term outlook for my TMJ health after undergoing orthognathic surgery?

  10. Can you provide me with more information or resources about orthognathic surgery and its potential impact on TMJ disorders to help me make an informed decision about my treatment plan?

Reference

Authors: Abdul NS, Minervini G. Journal: J Oral Rehabil. 2023 Oct;50(10):1093-1100. doi: 10.1111/joor.13534. Epub 2023 Jun 21. PMID: 37309105