What Problems Can Orthodontic Treatment Combined with Jaw Surgery Help Correct?
Orthodontic treatment combined with jaw surgery can help address several functional and structural issues, including:
- Improving chewing efficiency and the ability to properly bite and process food
- Correcting speech and pronunciation problems related to jaw alignment
- Reducing excessive tooth wear or the risk of tooth fractures caused by improper bite forces
- Correcting open bite conditions or situations where teeth cannot properly contact each other when biting down fully
- Improving facial asymmetry or disproportionate facial structures, such as a short chin, excessive gum display (gummy smile), protruding chin, deviated chin, or abnormal lip protrusion
- Correcting the inability to comfortably close the lips in a relaxed position
- Helping relieve obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or snoring
In addition to improving oral function, orthognathic surgery combined with orthodontic treatment can also significantly enhance a patient’s facial appearance and overall aesthetics.
Is Orthognathic Surgery with Orthodontic Treatment Dangerous?
Orthodontic treatment combined with jaw surgery is considered highly safe when performed by a specialized team consisting of an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and an orthodontist. However, as with any major surgical procedure, there are certain risks and possible side effects that patients should be aware of:
Numbness
This is the most common side effect and is generally not dangerous. Because the surgical area is located close to important nerves, temporary numbness may occur, most commonly in the lips or chin. In most cases, sensation gradually returns within 6–12 months. Permanent numbness is possible but occurs in a small percentage of cases.
Blood Loss
Some blood loss may occur during surgery. The anesthesiologist will continuously monitor the patient during the procedure and provide intravenous fluids or blood replacement if necessary.
Postoperative Infection
There is a potential risk of infection at the surgical site after surgery, particularly if oral hygiene and wound care are not properly maintained.
Swelling and Pain
Facial swelling is usually most significant during the first 2–3 days after surgery and gradually subsides within 2–4 weeks.
Jaw Relapse
In some cases, the jaw may slightly shift back toward its original position due to muscle tension. Patients should carefully follow the orthodontist’s instructions and attend follow-up appointments, typically within 10–15 days after surgery.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Problems
Some patients may experience increased or decreased TMJ discomfort after the jaw position has been corrected. However, most patients experience improvement in TMJ symptoms following treatment.
How to Reduce the Risks
Choose an Experienced Medical Team
Select specialists with extensive experience in orthognathic surgery and orthodontic treatment.
Precise Treatment Planning Using 3D Technology
Advanced 3D imaging and surgical planning technology can improve accuracy and surgical outcomes.
Prepare Your Body Before Surgery
Avoid smoking, maintain a balanced diet with adequate nutrition, get sufficient rest, and maintain good oral hygiene.
Follow Postoperative Care Instructions Carefully
Strictly follow the instructions provided by your surgeon and orthodontist, including elastic wear, mouth-opening exercises, dietary guidelines, prescribed medications, and proper oral hygiene practices.
