Spring into a Fresh Look: The Benefits of a Mini Facelift
Are you considering a facelift? Take a look at a mini facelift as you make your decision. This procedure offers numerous benefits and can deliver great results.
Corrective Jaw Surgery: More Than Just a Cosmetic Procedure
The medical name for corrective jaw surgery is orthognathic surgery, and it can be life-changing if your upper and lower jaws don’t line up. Correcting misaligned jaws improves functionality, allowing you to chew and speak more easily. It may also alter your appearance.
At Oral & Facial Surgery of Mississippi in Flowood, Mississippi, Dr. Michael R. Nichols and his experienced team perform orthognathic surgery when appropriate.
Dr. Nichols uses technology such as 3D models to preview your appearance after corrective jaw surgery. We also help you understand what to expect from the procedure.
Misalignment: What is it?
When your upper and lower jaws are properly aligned, your top front teeth sit just over your lower front teeth; when you bite down, your upper and lower back teeth meet neatly. Misalignment issues include:
- Overbite: the upper teeth cover the lower teeth, with space in between
- Underbite: the lower teeth stick out farther than the upper teeth
- Overjet: the front teeth protrude outward, sometimes called buck teeth
- Crossbite: the lower teeth fit over your top teeth on one side or the other
These misalignment issues, collectively known as malocclusion, can make it difficult to eat, speak, and clean your teeth. They’re associated with an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Depending on the severity of the malocclusion, you may have issues with swallowing or sleeping. Braces can correct milder forms of misaligned teeth, but sometimes the best course of action is to correct the position of your jaw.
Why misalignment happens
Malocclusion can be present from birth or develop over time. As you age, your jaws may grow at different rates. They may also become misaligned as a result of injury or trauma.
Orthodontic treatment is effective when only your teeth are involved; orthognathic surgery corrects problems with the alignment of your jawbones.
How corrective jaw surgery works
Dr. Nichols may remove part of your jaw, replace it, or reshape it to correct your bite. The surgery is significant, and Dr. Nichols and our team answer your questions and make sure you know what to expect well ahead of your procedure.
Surgery involves a hospital stay of 1-3 days after your procedure. Then, expect to take off 2-4 weeks from work or school. It may take two months to a year before you can eat normally.
We monitor you throughout your recovery, with weekly appointments for the first couple of months and as needed after that.
Corrective jaw surgery may seem intimidating, but it’s one of the most impactful procedures we offer. If you have questions, call today to schedule an appointment at Oral & Facial Surgery of Mississippi.
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