Our Summary

This research aimed to assess whether a type of surgery called orthognathic surgery, which corrects conditions that affect the jaw and face, can also help reduce the occurrence of temporomandibular disorder (TMD). TMD is a condition that can cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. The study focused specifically on patients who had uneven jaws.

The researchers checked for TMD in patients before and after their surgery - at 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year after the operation. They found that there was a significant drop (26.5%) in TMD cases from before the surgery to a year after the surgery.

In terms of individual cases, the TMD condition improved for 37.5% of patients, stayed the same for 50% of the patients, and got worse for 12.5% of the patients. The researchers found that the type of surgery, the extent of jaw movement during the surgery, the specific jaw issue, and whether the patient’s jaw was uneven didn’t make a difference to changes in TMD status.

In conclusion, the study suggests that orthognathic surgery might help treat TMD as a side benefit. However, doctors should be aware that a small number of patients might see their TMD condition worsen, and some patients who didn’t have TMD symptoms before might develop them after the surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is the prevalence of temporomandibular disorder (TMD) before and after orthognathic surgery?
  2. Can orthognathic surgery improve conditions of temporomandibular disorder (TMD)?
  3. Is there a risk of worsening temporomandibular disorder (TMD) symptoms after undergoing orthognathic surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about orthognathic surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure optimal healing and recovery. This may include taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and following any dietary restrictions or physical activity limitations. Additionally, patients should communicate any changes or concerns with their healthcare provider to address any potential complications or issues early on.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended orthognathic surgery are those with severe malocclusions, facial asymmetry, skeletal discrepancies, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. In particular, patients with mandibular asymmetry may benefit from orthognathic surgery to correct their facial appearance and improve their bite function. Additionally, patients with obstructive sleep apnea, speech difficulties, and difficulty chewing or swallowing may also be recommended orthognathic surgery to address these issues.

Timeline

  • Pre-operative assessment: Patients undergo a comprehensive evaluation to determine the need for orthognathic surgery, including physical examination, imaging studies, and dental assessments.

  • Orthognathic surgery: The surgical procedure is performed to correct the underlying skeletal deformity, involving repositioning of the jaw bones to improve facial aesthetics and function.

  • Post-operative recovery: Patients typically experience swelling, discomfort, and difficulty with chewing and speaking immediately after surgery. Pain medications, soft diet, and diligent oral hygiene are recommended during this time.

  • Follow-up appointments: Patients are monitored closely in the weeks and months following surgery to ensure proper healing and alignment of the jaw bones. Orthodontic treatment may be continued to fine-tune bite alignment.

  • Long-term outcomes: Over time, patients may experience improved facial symmetry, bite function, and overall quality of life. Some patients may also notice a reduction in symptoms of temporomandibular disorder (TMD).

  • TMD assessment: Patients are evaluated for TMD symptoms before and after surgery using standardized criteria. Some patients may see an improvement in TMD symptoms following orthognathic surgery, while others may experience no change or even a worsening of symptoms.

  • Conclusion: Orthognathic surgery can provide both aesthetic and functional benefits for patients with dentofacial deformities. While there is a potential secondary benefit of TMD improvement, surgeons should be aware that a small percentage of patients may experience a worsening of TMD symptoms post-operatively.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the specific reason for recommending orthognathic surgery in my case?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with orthognathic surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery period after orthognathic surgery?
  4. Will I need to follow a specific diet or make any lifestyle changes before or after surgery?
  5. Will I need to wear braces before or after surgery?
  6. How will orthognathic surgery affect my appearance and function of my jaw?
  7. Will I need to undergo any additional procedures or treatments in conjunction with orthognathic surgery?
  8. How often will I need to come in for follow-up appointments after surgery?
  9. What are the expected long-term outcomes of orthognathic surgery in terms of my jaw alignment and function?
  10. Are there any alternative treatments or options available for my specific condition that I should consider before proceeding with orthognathic surgery?

Reference

Authors: Toh AQJ, Leung YY. Journal: J Craniomaxillofac Surg. 2022 Mar;50(3):218-224. doi: 10.1016/j.jcms.2021.11.012. Epub 2021 Dec 3. PMID: 34887170