Jaw surgery, also called 'orthognathic surgery' is performed on people whose teeth and jaw do not meet together nicely into a functional position, or on people with sleep disorders, such as sleep apnoea.

 

There are different reasons that may indicate a need for jaw surgery:

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- The teeth may not meet into a functional chewing position, making biting and chewing difficult.

- Difficulties swallowing

- Maligned jaws can affect speech

- Birth defects

- Oral health can be affected

- Unbalanced facial profile, from side and/or front

- Sleep apnoea: defects in jaw size and the position can contribute to snoring and breathing

   problems

- Chronic jaw pain (including headaches)

- Temperomandibular Jaw (TMJ) pain

- Facial injury

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It is common for Jaw surgery to be used in conjunction with orthodontic treatment. Bite problems for example can be treated alone by orthodontics when the teeth only are involved. Jaw surgery may be required though when the jaw needs repositioning as well as the teeth. Often, the two treatments provide excellent long term results for the above conditions.

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Your surgeon will work closely with your dentist and/or orthodontist to work towards the best results for you.

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