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Orthognathic Surgery
Orthognathic surgery is needed when jaws don't meet correctly and/or teeth don't seem to "fit" with jaws. Teeth are straightened with orthodontics, and corrective jaw surgery repositions misaligned jaws. This not only improves facial appearance, but also ensures that teeth meet correctly and function properly.
Who needs Orthognathic Surgery?
People who can benefit from orthognathic surgery include those with an improper bite or jaws that are positioned incorrectly. Jaw growth is a gradual process, and in some instances, the upper and lower jaws may grow at different rates. The result can be a host of problems that can affect chewing function, speech, long-term oral health, and appearance. Injury to the jaw and birth defects can also affect jaw alignment. While orthodontics alone can correct many "byte" problems if only the teeth are involved, orthognathic surgery may be required if the jaws also need repositioning.
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Orthognathic Surgery Presentation
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To provide you with a better understanding of orthognathic surgery, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to orthognathic surgery are discussed.
Having trouble? Please make sure you have version 7 of the Flash browser plugin in order to correctly view this presentation. This software is available as a free download.
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Difficulty in the following areas should be evaluated :
- difficulty in chewing, biting or swallowing
- speech problems
- chronic jaw or TMJ pain
- open bite
- protruding jaw
- breathing problems
Any of these can exist at birth or may be acquired after birth as a result of hereditary or environmental influences or, trauma to the face. Before any treatment begins, a consultation will be held to perform a complete examination with x-rays. During the pre-treatment consultation process, feel free to ask any questions that you have regarding your treatment. When you are fully informed about the aspects of your care, you and your dental team will make the decision to proceed with treatment together.
Technology and Orthognathic Surgery
 At Mirage Oral and Facial Surgery, we use modern computer techniques and three dimensional models to show you exactly how your surgery will be approached. Using comprehensive facial x-rays and video "photographs", we can show you how your bite will be improved and even give you an idea of how you'll look after surgery. This helps you understand the surgical process and the extent of the treatment which is prescribed, and to see the benefits of orthognathic surgery.
During the pre-treatment consultation process, feel free to ask any questions that you have regarding your treatment. When you are fully informed about the aspects of your care, you and your dental team will make the decision to proceed with treatment together. Some people may consider having cosmetic procedures to enhance their new appearance, such as surgery on the eyes, nose, or brow. You may wish to discuss these options with our doctors if and when these procedures should be performed.
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