Orthognathic Surgery is a surgical procedure used to correct a person’s bite that is positioned incorrectly. Just as “Orthodontics” means “straight teeth,” “Orthognathic” means “straight jaws.” Sometimes it is necessary to perform Orthognathic surgery in conjunction with Orthodontic treatment so that the jaws and teeth are properly aligned.

Why might Orthognathic Surgery be necessary?

Orthognathic surgery may be performed in conjunction with Orthodontic treatment so that the jaws and teeth are properly aligned.

Correcting an Open Bite:
The shaded area is removed.	The upper jaw is secured in proper position with plates and screws.

Prognathia - protruding lower jaw
Lower jaw moved back for proper alignment.	Teeth now properly aligned and facial features normal.

Retrognathia - receding lower jaw or "weak chin"
Both lower jaw and chin must be advanced.	Teeth now properly aligned and "weak chin" corrected.

What causes improper jaw position?

Jaw growth is a slow and gradual process. Sometimes the upper and lower jaws grow at different rates. This could be caused by a birth defect, an injury, or for unknown reasons.

Unequal growth of the jaws can cause:

• Difficulty chewing or biting food
• Difficulty swallowing
• Speech problems
• Chronic jaw pain
• Excessive wear of the teeth
• Open bite (the front or back teeth do not come together when the mouth is closed)
• Unbalanced facial appearance
• Receding chin
• Protruding jaw
• Inability to make lips meet without effort
• Chronic Mouth breathing with dry mouth
• Sleep Apnea (breathing problems when sleeping such as snoring, difficulty breathing, etc.)

Am I a candidate for Orthognathic Surgery?

After an initial exam and consultation Dr. Martone will determine if you are a candidate and which treatment is appropriate for you.

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