Our Summary

This research paper is about a comprehensive review of the impact of a specific kind of jaw surgery (known as orthognathic surgery) on the quality of life of people with dental and facial deformities. The researchers combed through multiple databases to find studies that had previously looked into this topic. They analyzed the data from these studies and found that orthognathic surgery had a positive impact on the patients’ quality of life. They used two different methods to measure quality of life, the Oral Health Impact Profile and the Orthognathic Quality of Life Questionnaire, and the results from both showed this positive impact. Out of 2,263 articles they found initially, 12 were used for qualitative synthesis and seven were included in the detailed statistical analysis known as a meta-analysis. The researchers conclude that the surgery has a significant and beneficial effect on the quality of life of patients with dental and facial deformities.

FAQs

  1. What is orthognathic surgery and who is it intended for?
  2. How do researchers measure the impact of orthognathic surgery on patients’ quality of life?
  3. According to the research, what effect does orthognathic surgery have on patients’ quality of life?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about orthognathic surgery is to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and optimal results. This may include maintaining a soft diet, avoiding strenuous activities, attending follow-up appointments, and taking prescribed medications as directed. It is also important to communicate openly with your healthcare team about any concerns or questions you may have throughout the recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended orthognathic surgery are those with severe malocclusion (misalignment of the jaws), facial asymmetry, difficulty chewing or speaking due to jaw misalignment, obstructive sleep apnea, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, and other craniofacial abnormalities. These patients often experience physical discomfort, difficulty eating, speaking, and breathing, as well as psychological and social impacts due to their facial deformities. Orthognathic surgery is recommended to correct these issues and improve the overall function and appearance of the jaw and face.

Timeline

Before orthognathic surgery:

  1. Patient is referred to an orthodontist or oral surgeon for evaluation of dental and facial deformities.
  2. Patient undergoes a thorough examination, including X-rays, photographs, and dental impressions.
  3. Orthodontic treatment may be necessary to align the teeth and prepare for surgery.
  4. Patient meets with the surgeon to discuss the surgical procedure, risks, and expected outcomes.
  5. Pre-surgical orthodontic treatment may be required to move the teeth into the correct position for surgery.
  6. Patient undergoes pre-surgical evaluations, including medical history, blood tests, and possibly a consultation with other specialists.
  7. Surgery date is scheduled and patient receives instructions on how to prepare for the procedure.

After orthognathic surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes orthognathic surgery to correct the dental and facial deformities.
  2. Patient may experience pain, swelling, and bruising following the surgery.
  3. Patient is instructed on post-operative care, including pain management, diet restrictions, and oral hygiene.
  4. Patient may require a liquid or soft diet for a period of time after surgery.
  5. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and progress.
  6. Orthodontic treatment continues after surgery to fine-tune the bite and alignment of the teeth.
  7. Patient’s quality of life improves as they experience the aesthetic and functional benefits of the surgery.
  8. Patient may undergo additional procedures, such as orthodontic adjustments or jaw exercises, to further improve outcomes.
  9. Long-term follow-up is necessary to monitor the stability of the surgical results and address any potential complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  1. What specific dental and facial deformities can orthognathic surgery correct?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with orthognathic surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process and what can I expect in terms of pain and swelling?
  4. Will I need to follow a special diet or make any lifestyle changes after the surgery?
  5. How long will the results of the surgery last?
  6. Will I need to undergo any additional procedures or treatments after the surgery?
  7. How experienced are you in performing orthognathic surgery and what is your success rate?
  8. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition?
  9. Will my insurance cover the cost of orthognathic surgery?
  10. What can I do to prepare for the surgery and optimize my recovery process?

Reference

Authors: Meger MN, Fatturi AL, Gerber JT, Weiss SG, Rocha JS, Scariot R, Wambier LM. Journal: Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2021 Apr;59(3):265-271. doi: 10.1016/j.bjoms.2020.08.014. Epub 2020 Aug 14. PMID: 33546846