JAW SURGERY PALO ALTO CA
Expert Orthognathic Surgery for Improved Quality of Life
Consulting an orthodontist can be a life-changing decision. At Palo Alto Orthodontics, we understand the profound impact that a well-aligned jaw can have on your daily life. Jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, can not only enhance your smile but also improve your overall quality of life. Whether you’re dealing with functional issues like difficulty chewing or speaking, or you want to correct aesthetic concerns, our expert team is here to guide you through the process with care and advanced technology.
What is Orthognathic Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery, commonly referred to as corrective jaw surgery, addresses severe bite problems and jaw irregularities. This procedure combines surgical techniques with orthodontic treatments, such as braces or Invisalign, to achieve significant improvements in both function and appearance. Patients with abnormalities in the facial bones, particularly the jaws and teeth, often face challenges in chewing, talking, sleeping, and breathing. These issues can interfere with everyday activities that many people take for granted.
At Palo Alto Orthodontics, our primary goal with orthognathic surgery is to resolve these functional issues, ensuring that you can eat, speak, and sleep comfortably. Additionally, this surgery can dramatically enhance your facial profile, giving you a beautiful and balanced smile. Our approach integrates advanced orthodontic techniques and precise surgical interventions to provide lasting, stable results. By addressing these concerns comprehensively, we help our patients achieve a harmonious bite and an attractive smile that boosts their confidence.
Why Choose Jaw Surgery?
There are numerous reasons why patients might need jaw surgery. Jaw surgery is essential for those experiencing significant issues that cannot be corrected with orthodontic treatment alone. Here are some common reasons to consider jaw surgery:
- Difficulty Chewing, Speaking, or Breathing: Misaligned jaws can make simple tasks like chewing food or speaking clearly difficult. Jaw surgery can correct these issues, making it easier to perform daily activities.
- Sleep Apnea and Other Breathing Issues: The position of your jaw can impact your airway, leading to sleep apnea or chronic mouth breathing. Corrective jaw surgery can help open your airway, improving breathing and sleep quality.
- Facial Trauma or Congenital Disabilities: Injuries or birth defects affecting the jaw can cause functional and aesthetic problems. Jaw surgery can address these concerns, restoring both function and appearance.
- TMJ Pain or Discomfort: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and muscles. Surgery can alleviate these symptoms, providing relief and improving jaw function.
Benefits of Orthognathic Surgery
Prevents Dental Problems
Jaw misalignment can lead to excessive wear on your teeth, increasing the risk of dental issues. By correcting the alignment, jaw surgery can help prevent further dental complications.
Improved Eating Function
Misaligned jaws can make it hard to chew and digest certain foods. Post-surgery, patients often find they can enjoy a wider variety of foods without discomfort.
Enhanced Breathing and Sleep Quality
Correcting the jaw position can significantly improve breathing, reduce snoring, and alleviate sleep apnea symptoms.
Facial Balance and Symmetry
Orthognathic surgery can enhance facial aesthetics by improving the balance and symmetry of your facial features. This not only boosts self-esteem but also contributes to overall facial harmony.
Advanced Methods at Palo Alto Orthodontics
At Palo Alto Orthodontics, we leverage the latest advancements in technology to ensure your jaw surgery is as efficient and effective as possible. Our commitment to utilizing state-of-the-art methods sets us apart and allows our patients to experience smoother procedures, faster recovery times, and exceptional results.
Digital Imaging Technology
We use advanced digital imaging technology to create detailed visual representations of your jaw structure. This technology allows us to illustrate the functional and aesthetic benefits of jaw surgery clearly, helping you understand the expected outcomes and the improvements you can anticipate.
Computerized Treatment Planning
Our computerized treatment planning system enables us to optimize every aspect of your surgery. By meticulously planning each step, we can reduce treatment times, enhance precision, and minimize recovery periods. This comprehensive approach ensures that your treatment is tailored to your specific needs, resulting in predictable and successful outcomes.
State-of-the-Art Materials
The materials we use in jaw surgery are of the highest quality. We employ titanium plates and miniature screws to secure the jaw in its new position. These materials are not only incredibly strong and stable but also biocompatible, ensuring your body accepts them without issues. The use of these advanced materials adds to the predictability and durability of the surgical results.
Am I a Candidate for Orthognathic Surgery?
Determining whether you are a candidate for orthognathic surgery requires a thorough evaluation of your specific condition. At Palo Alto Orthodontics, we encourage you to schedule an in-office consultation to assess your bite and the severity of your case. Our team of experts will conduct a comprehensive examination and discuss your symptoms, concerns, and treatment goals.
During the consultation, we will evaluate various factors to determine if jaw surgery is the best solution for you:
- Severity of Jaw Misalignment: We assess the alignment of your jaws and teeth to understand the extent of the misalignment. Minor issues can often be corrected with orthodontic treatments alone, while more severe cases may require surgical intervention.
- Functional Concerns: If you experience significant difficulty with chewing, speaking, breathing, or other daily activities due to jaw misalignment, orthognathic surgery might be necessary to address these functional problems.
- Aesthetic Considerations: We also consider the aesthetic impact of your jaw alignment. Corrective jaw surgery can enhance your facial profile and improve the balance and symmetry of your features, contributing to a more attractive appearance.
- Previous Treatments: We review your dental and orthodontic history, including any previous treatments you may have undergone. This helps us understand your unique situation and develop a customized treatment plan.
It’s important to note that orthodontics has advanced significantly, and in many cases, we can achieve the desired results with orthodontic treatment alone. However, for those with more complex issues, jaw surgery provides a comprehensive solution that addresses both functional and aesthetic concerns.
The Jaw Surgery Process
Understanding the jaw surgery process can help you feel more comfortable and prepared for what lies ahead. At Palo Alto Orthodontics, we ensure you are well-informed and supported throughout every stage of treatment. The process involves three major stages: pre-surgical preparation, the surgical procedure, and the recovery period.
Your journey begins with an initial consultation where we discuss your condition and treatment goals. During this appointment, our team will:
- Conduct a thorough examination and take necessary imaging, such as digital 3D scans, to plan your treatment accurately.
- Review your medical and dental history to ensure we understand your unique needs.
- Discuss the recommended procedure, including its benefits, risks, and alternatives.
- Collaborate with your orthodontist to develop a customized treatment plan. This may involve aligning your teeth with braces or Invisalign, which typically takes 9-18 months.
Once your teeth are nearly aligned, you will have a surgical planning appointment. This appointment occurs about two weeks before the surgery and involves creating a virtual model of your teeth and facial skeleton. Using this model, we perform virtual surgery to plan the procedure precisely, ensuring accuracy and optimal results.
Your surgery will be scheduled at a local hospital or our accredited surgical center. Our top priorities are your comfort and safety, which is why we work with experienced anesthesiologists familiar with orthognathic procedures. During the surgery:
- Anesthesia is administered to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free.
- The surgeon repositions the jaws and secures them using tiny biocompatible plates and screws. These materials are stable and help facilitate the healing process.
- Unlike older methods, your teeth will not be wired together after the procedure, thanks to advancements in surgical techniques.
After the surgery, you will spend one night in the hospital or an aftercare facility to ensure you are well-monitored during the initial recovery phase.
Recovery from jaw surgery involves several stages, and our team will guide you through each step:
First Few Days
Expect facial swelling, which peaks around the third day. Applying ice packs and keeping your head elevated can help reduce swelling. Bruising may also occur but will subside over time.
Diet
You will start with a liquid diet for the first week, gradually transitioning to a soft diet over the next eight weeks. Ensure you consume nutritious liquids like juice, broth, and meal supplements to maintain your health and hydration.
Post-Operative Care
Follow all post-operative instructions carefully. This includes gentle brushing with a child-size toothbrush and avoiding smoking, which can hinder the healing process.
Return to Normal Activities
Most patients take one to three weeks off work or school, depending on the extent of the surgery and their occupation. Your surgeon will provide specific recommendations based on your individual case.
Throughout the recovery period, our team will closely monitor your progress and adjust your braces as needed. This final phase of orthodontic treatment is usually shorter than the initial alignment period, ensuring you can enjoy your improved smile sooner.
Book Your Appointment Today
JAW SURGERY PALO ALTO CA
Don’t let jaw issues hold you back any longer. At Palo Alto Orthodontics, we’re here to help you achieve the transformation you deserve. Our expert team is dedicated to providing personalized care with cutting-edge technology, ensuring you receive the best possible treatment.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discover how our comprehensive jaw surgery solutions can improve your quality of life. Your journey to a beautiful, functional smile starts with a simple call. Let’s create a brighter future together—book your appointment now!
SCHEDULE ONLINEContact Info
Current Patient: 650-327-2310
New Patient: 650-844-0638
Email: smile@paloaltoorthodontics.com
Fax: 650-999-0710
Address:
905 Middlefield Rd, Suite A
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Hours:
Monday-Thursday: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Friday: By appointment only