If the alignment of the upper and lower jaw is not proper
as per age then it leads to several problems associated with
speaking, chewing, swallowing, and breathing. Though this
problem could be resolved to a certain extent with the usage
of braces, the more serious cases require surgery to change
the position of the jaws.
Diagnosis methods
Tests required to identify jaw alignment problems are:
- X-rays of the mouth
- Photographs of the jaws are taken.
- Plaster impressions of the upper and lower jaws.
Procedure for the surgery:
Surgery
Surgery is planned after your teeth have moved into the correct
position. Surgery is done to place your bones at correct position.
As a result the bones grow together and heal naturally in
a few months time.
Before the surgery is done directions are given on when to
stop eating and drinking before the procedure. To prevent
dehydration and infection it is supplemented by IV (intravenous)
fluids and medications. There are four types of surgery:
- Open Bite Surgery - The jaws are repositioned to allow
the mouth to close.
- Facial Asymmetry (uneven jaw) Surgery : It is accomplished
by removing or adding a wedge of bone to your upper or
lower jaw to provide symmetry to the face.
- Upper Jaw Surgery - The upper jaw is shortened or lengthened.
Visible Scars are avoided b y making an incision inside
the mouth so there are no visible scars.
- Lower Jaw Surgery - The lower jaw is either brought
forward or moved back. Through an incision inside the
mouth. Prior to surgery you will need to visit a general
dentist for a cleaning, any gum disease treatment, and
any other dental work. The orthodontist puts on and adjusts
your braces, and the surgeon plans your surgery. This
process can last up to a year and half or longer.
Treatment before the surgery:
- Proper alignment of teeth - A proper positioning of
teeth is achieved through the use of braces after surgery.
The time period of wearing braces depends on the position
of your teeth and the type of surgery performed on your
jaws . You will see the orthodontist about once a month
for adjustments. As your teeth gradually shift into position
and your x-rays and cast are reviewed, the orthodontist
may shorten or lengthen the preparation phase. You are
ready for surgery when new casts of your upper and lower
jaws finally fit together well. It may seem like your
braces are making your bite worse than it was before,
because the orthodontist is positioning your teeth for
the bite you will have after surgery.
- Checking Progress for planning surgery-
The risks involved are:
- Dental hygiene problems - braces and wires make cleaning
the teeth more difficult. This can cause decay, discolouration
and permanent marks.
- Soft tissue injury - the braces may dig into the gums
or cheeks.
- Relapse - the corrected teeth may misalign themselves
again, once the braces are removed. The eruption of wisdom
teeth sometime in the late teens or early 20s can also
cause a relapse.
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