Beyond Braces: How Orthognathic Surgery Transforms Lives

Imagine a life where you can eat, speak, and smile with ease, where your facial features are in perfect harmony. This transformation is not only possible but also achieved with precision and excellence in jaw surgeries at Sokoloff Orthodontics. Offering trusted orthognathic surgery White Plains NY services, our team welcomes you to a journey of self-discovery and renewed confidence, where your perfect smile is within reach.

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What is Jaw Surgery (Orthognathic Surgery)?

Jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, is a specialized procedure designed to correct abnormalities of the facial bones, particularly the jaws and teeth. These abnormalities can often lead to difficulties in everyday activities such as chewing, speaking, and sleeping. The primary goal of orthognathic surgery is not only to address these functional issues but also to enhance the overall appearance of your facial profile.

Our Approach to Jaw Surgery

When you choose Sokoloff Orthodontics for your jaw surgery needs, you’re opting for a team that is dedicated to your well-being. We utilize the latest advancements in digital imaging technology to demonstrate the functional and aesthetic benefits of orthognathic surgery. This technology allows us to minimize treatment times, shorten recovery periods, and enhance the overall effectiveness of your surgery.

We also take pride in using state-of-the-art materials like titanium plates and miniature screws, which provide the stability, strength, and predictability your treatment deserves. These technological advancements, along with our expertise, significantly reduce post-surgical recovery time, enabling you to return to your routine sooner.

Is Jaw Surgery Right for You?

Orthognathic surgery may not be necessary in every case. With the continuous advancements in orthodontics, some jaw issues can be effectively addressed without the need for surgery. At Sokoloff Orthodontics, we take the time to assess your specific condition and determine whether orthognathic surgery is the correct treatment option for you.

When Might Jaw Surgery Be Considered?

Severe Overbite or Underbite
Open Bite
Chronic Jaw Pain or TMJ Disorders
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Growth Disturbances
Facial Trauma
Cysts and Tumors
Persistent Bite Problems

Understanding Jaw Problems

Jaw problems can occur for various reasons, and it’s essential to comprehend the nature of these issues before considering jaw surgery.

Congenital Jaw Problems
Congenital jaw problems are present from birth and can encompass a range of issues. Specific examples include overbites, underbites, open bites, cleft lips and palates, and conditions like the Pierre Robin sequence.

Jaw Problems Caused by Injuries or Medical Conditions
In contrast, some jaw problems develop later in life due to injuries or medical conditions. Some common causes include facial fractures, cysts, tumors, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ), and growth disturbances. Recognizing the factors that contribute to these issues is vital for determining the most appropriate treatment approach.

Types of Jaw Surgery

MAXILLARY OSTEOTOMY

Maxillary osteotomy is a specialized procedure aimed at correcting upper jaw alignment issues, which often involve overbites or underbites. Additionally, it is used to address open bites and crossbites, restoring proper bite alignment.

MANDIBULAR OSTEOTOMY

Mandibular osteotomy is designed to correct lower jaw alignment issues, such as overbites or underbites, which can significantly impact bite balance. It addresses the specific challenges posed by underbites and overbites, ultimately achieving a balanced bite that enhances both function and aesthetics.

DOUBLE JAW SURGERY

Double jaw surgery, as the name suggests, is a comprehensive approach that addresses complex cases involving both upper and lower jaw alignment issues. This surgical intervention becomes necessary when both jaws require adjustment to achieve optimal facial harmony and functional bite alignment.

Preparing for Jaw Surgery

Necessary Tests and Information
Before undergoing jaw surgery, several crucial tests and pieces of information are essential for proper planning. These may include:

X-rays: Detailed imaging to assess your jaw structure.
Computed tomography (CT) scans: 3D scans for precise planning.
Photographs of your teeth and jaw: To document your current condition.
Impressions of your teeth: Used to create a dental model.
Any other relevant scans or tests specific to your case.

Dietary Aspect
Patients may be advised to transition to a liquid diet in the days leading up to the surgery. This dietary adjustment helps minimize potential complications during the surgical process and eases the post-operative recovery phase.

Choosing Your Anesthesia
Understanding the types, anesthesia process, potential risks, and any necessary precautions ensure a smooth and secure surgical experience based on your needs and what you prefer.

Surgery Personalization
These preparations may encompass a range of factors, from medical history evaluations to specific instructions to follow on the day of the surgery. Your surgeon will design a surgical treatment plan based on them to ensure a successful and satisfactory outcome.

The Role of Orthodontic Treatment Before Surgery

One key aspect of preparation is the importance of aligning teeth before surgery. By achieving proper alignment of your teeth, orthodontics sets the stage for successful jaw surgery. This alignment is essential as it allows the upper and lower jaws to fit together seamlessly post-surgery, ensuring optimal function and a harmonious smile.

What Does It Take to Get Orthodontic Treatment Before Jaw Surgery?

Tooth Removal: In some cases, orthodontic treatment may involve the strategic removal of teeth to create the necessary space and facilitate proper jaw alignment. The objective is to ensure that the final result aligns perfectly with your treatment goals.
Braces or Invisalign: These appliances are essential for jaw surgery preparation to relocate your teeth and align your bite. The average braces or Invisalign treatment time before surgery is 9–18 months, but the exact timeline depends on your orthodontic demands.

The Jaw Surgery Procedure

Jaw surgery is a meticulously planned and precise procedure designed to correct various jaw misalignments and enhance both function and aesthetics. Here is an in-depth look into the different aspects of the orthognathic jaw surgery White Plains NY procedure:

The Day of Surgery

On the day of your scheduled jaw surgery, several critical steps take place:

Meeting with the Surgical Team: You will have the opportunity to meet with the surgical team, including the oral and maxillofacial surgeon, anesthesiologist, and nursing staff. This is a crucial time to address any last-minute questions or concerns.
Administration of Anesthesia: Once you are prepared and comfortable, anesthesia will be administered to ensure you remain asleep and pain-free throughout the surgery.

The Surgical Process

The jaw surgery procedure involves a series of carefully planned steps and techniques:

Overview of Surgical Steps: The surgeon will provide an overview of the surgical process, explaining how they will reposition and adjust your jaw bones to achieve the desired alignment.
Repositioning Jaw Bones: The core objective of jaw surgery is to reposition the upper and lower jaw bones to correct misalignments such as overbites, underbites, or open bites. This is typically achieved through precise cuts in the jawbones.
Securing Jaw Bones: After repositioning the jawbones, they are secured in their new position using specialized techniques and materials such as titanium plates and miniature screws. These provide stability, strength, and predictability to the treatment.
Additional Procedures: Depending on your specific case, additional procedures or adjustments may be performed during surgery to achieve the best possible results. These can vary from patient to patient.

Post-Surgery Recovery Room

Following the surgical procedure, you will be taken to the recovery room:

Immediate Post-Surgery Expectations: You can expect to be closely monitored in the recovery room. Any initial discomfort or pain will be managed by the medical team, and you will be carefully observed as you begin to wake up from anesthesia.
Monitoring Vital Signs: Vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels will be continuously monitored to ensure your safety during this critical phase.
Preparing for the Transition: As you recover from the effects of anesthesia, the medical team will prepare you for the transition to the post-surgery recovery phase.

Transform Your Smile with Expert Jaw Surgery Consultation

If you’ve been contemplating jaw surgery or are curious about its potential benefits, don’t hesitate any longer. Our consultation is more than a meeting; it’s an opportunity to:

Gain Clarity
Receive Personalized Guidance
Discuss Your Concerns
Explore Treatment Options

Don’t let uncertainty hold you back from experiencing the life-changing benefits of a jaw surgery White Plains NY treatment. Take the first step toward harmonious jaw alignment, improved oral health, and renewed self-assurance by scheduling your free initial consultation with Dr. Sokoloff.