Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery

Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery

Corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) is used to address growth abnormalities, developmental deficiencies and asymmetries of the facial bones, jaws and teeth. Often these problems cause difficulty with chewing, talking, sleeping and other routine functions. They may also pose long-term health and/or dental risks. Patients who experience these problems may be able to prevent the need for jaw surgery with orthodontic treatment if sufficient remaining growth exists to modify growth. However, if growth is complete or if the skeletal discrepancy is beyond the ability to reasonably camouflage with orthodontics alone, surgery may be unavoidable. In these cases, orthognathic surgery and orthodontics combined improves function and enhances overall esthetics.

When indicated, will discuss the overall functional and aesthetic benefits of orthognathic surgery. Collaborative treatment planning minimizes treatment time and recovery periods, and improves the overall efficiency of your surgery. State-of-the-art materials such as titanium and resorbable fixation provide surgical stability, strength and predictability for our surgical cases which help to reduce post-surgical recovery time…thus allowing patients to return to their normal routines soon after the surgery.

Dr. Pollei has extensive experience treating surgical orthodontic cases – both from his time on the internationally acclaimed dentofacial and craniofacial teams at the University of North Carolina and from his time in private practice. He can help you to determine if orthognathic surgery is an appropriate treatment option for you.