Jaw Surgery with Sani Dental Group

Did you know that between 30% and 56% of the global population suffers from some form of malocclusion (misaligned bite)?

A misaligned jaw occurs when your upper and lower teeth don't fit properly, having a negative impact not only in crucial functional aspects such as chewing, breathing or speaking, but also a very important influence on your overall facial appearance.

There are several dental treatments designed to address this condition, and jaw surgery stands out as one of the most effective options due to its long-lasting results.

Without further ado, here is everything you need to know about Jaw Surgery with Sani Dental Group.

What Is Jaw Surgery, and Why Is It Important for Oral Health?

Also known as orthognathic surgery, jaw surgery is a procedure in which a professional oral surgeon repositions the upper and lower jawbone and teeth to restore proper function. 

This type of dental surgery helps to correct severe bite problems, including malocclusion, obstructive sleep apnea, and TMJ disorders that can't be fixed alone by orthodontics, enhancing chewing, breathing, and of course, facial appearance.

Some of the most commonly performed jaw surgery procedures include:

Maxillary Osteotomy (Upper jaw surgery)

This type of surgery is performed to correct conditions such as crossbite, a jaw that sinks in or protrudes excessively, excessive or insufficient tooth display, and open bite, among others.

During this procedure, the surgeon makes an incision in the gum above the upper teeth to access the jawbone. The upper jaw is then cut and repositioned so it fits properly with the lower jaw and is secured in place using small metal plates and screws.

Mandibular Osteotomy (Lower jaw surgery)

In this procedure, the surgeon makes cuts behind the molars, extending lengthwise down to the jawbone, allowing the front portion of the jaw to be moved as a single unit. Once the jaw is placed in the correct position, it is secured with plates and screws.

Genioplasty (Chin augmentation surgery)

A chin surgery is meant to correct a small chin, also called a deficient chin. Here the chin bone is cut and repositioned forward to achieve more facial harmony, and then immediately held in place with plates and screws.

How Is the Jaw Surgery Process From Diagnosis to Recovery?

Performed by oral and maxilofacial surgeons, the process begins with general anesthesia to ensure you are fully asleep and comfortable during the surgery.  

To avoid facial scarring, the entire procedure is performed inside the mouth. Small cuts are made in the jawbone, which is then repositioned into proper alignment. Depending on the complexity of the procedure, you may either stay in the hospital for a couple of days or be sent home the same day as your surgery.

Your surgeon will provide post-operative care instructions to ensure proper healing, with full recovery typically taking between 6 and 12 weeks.

It is worth mentioning that braces or retainers are usually required both before and after the surgery as part of the preparation and retention process, helping maintain proper tooth alignment.

How Much Does Jaw Surgery Cost?

According to the website DentaVacation, the price of corrective jaw surgery in U.S. clinics can be as high as $50,000, and the price in Canada can range from $18,000 to $36,000 without insurance.