Jaw surgery may help to:

Our surgeons use modern technology to plan the surgery. Using comprehensive x-rays, patient photos and computer imaging we can project how your bite will be improved and even give you an estimation of how you will look after surgery. Our goal is to help you understand the extent and benefits of the surgery.

Jaw surgery is performed by one of our oral maxillofacial surgeons and done under general anesthesia. Surgery takes place in the hospital and requires a few days recovery in the hospital.

Surgery usually can be performed inside your mouth, with no visible scars. However, sometimes small incisions may be required outside of the mouth.

Your surgeon makes cuts in the jawbones and moves them into the correct position and secures the position with small plates and screws.

Jaw surgery may be performed on the upper jaw, lower jaw, chin or any combination of these.

After surgery, your doctor will provide you with instructions. These usually include:

After initial jaw healing — usually around six weeks — your orthodontist finishes aligning your teeth with braces. The entire orthodontic process, including surgery and braces, may take several years. Once the braces are removed, retainers to hold tooth position may be used.