About Jaw Surgery
Jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, repositions a misaligned jaw. When the top and bottom jaws do not meet correctly and/or teeth do not fit properly in the jaw, problems such as chronic jaw pain and difficulty eating or breathing normally can occur. Individuals with jaw alignment problems or severe jaw pain who do not respond to other treatment methods alone, such as braces or Invisalign, use jaw surgery to reposition their jaw, changing the facial appearance, boosting self-esteem, and making it easier to chew, speak, and sleep.
Commonly asked questions about Jaw Surgery
Before undertaking any procedure, you will want to be confident in your knowledge. Find the details on Jaw Surgery here.
1. What is jaw surgery?
Jaw surgery corrects irregularities in the jaw bones and realigns the jaw and teeth, improving their function while also improving facial appearance. When orthodontics alone cannot resolve jaw problems, jaw surgery serves as a corrective option for issues such as different growth rates of the upper and lower jaws, chewing functions, or long-term oral health. Prior to surgery, teeth are typically straightened with orthodontics, and the misaligned jaw is then repositioned with jaw surgery. Oral or maxillofacial surgeons perform jaw surgery, often in collaboration with an orthodontist.
2. Why is jaw surgery done?
There are several reasons why individuals choose jaw surgery. When the jaw and teeth are aligned properly, the lower face will look more balanced, the teeth will function better, and things like sleeping, breathing, chewing, and swallowing will be easier. Additional advantages of jaw surgery include improvements in speech difficulties as well as enhanced confidence and self-esteem.
4. How does jaw surgery work?
In most cases, patients undergoing jaw surgery begin with orthodontic treatment, such as braces or Invisalign, to align the dental arches. Jaw surgery is performed under general anesthesia and can be performed on the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or for conditions affecting both jaws (bimaxillary osteotomy).
Upper Jaw (Maxillary Osteotomy)
- The surgeon will make an incision in the gums above the upper teeth, allowing access to the bones of the upper jaw.
- A cut into the bone above the teeth will be made, allowing the jaw, roof of the mouth, and upper teeth to move into alignment together. The jaw and upper teeth are moved forward until they fit properly with the lower teeth.
- Once the jaw is realigned, plates and/or screws hold the bone into its new position and stitches are used to close the incision in the gums.
Lower Jaw (Mandibular Osteotomy)
- The surgeon will make an incision into the gums on each side of the lower jaw, just behind the molars.
- A cut into the lower jawbone will be made, allowing the surgeon to carefully move the jaw either forward or backwards into a new position.
- One the jaw is realigned, plates and/or screws hold the adjusted jawbone into its new position and stitches are used to close the incision in the gums.
8. How much does jaw surgery cost in Canada?
The cost of jaw surgery is determined by the type and complexity of the surgery, geographic location, and the experience of the preferred health provider. If applicable, hospital charges, X-rays/dental impressions, as well as braces, Invisalign, and retainers, will all have an impact on the overall cost. In Canada, the average cost of jaw surgery ranges from $8,000 to $20,000.