Jaw Surgery
How jaw surgery can help
Many people suffer from misaligned jaws or an improper bite, which may be a result of poor jaw growth, birth defects, or facial trauma. Jaw problems can often be corrected with orthodontics, but sometimes the abnormal growth is so severe that corrective jaw surgery is necessary.
If you experience any of the following, you may be a candidate for jaw surgery:
- Difficulty chewing, biting food, or swallowing
- Chronic TMJ pain and headaches
- Unbalanced facial appearance from the front or side
- Receding or protruding jaw and chin
- An open bite (space between the upper and lower teeth when your mouth is closed)
- Inability to make your lips meet without straining
- Sleep apnea problems
The jaw surgery procedure
Our practice uses modern computer techniques and advancements in technology to create 3D models of your mouth. We can show you exactly how your surgery will be approached and, in turn, perform highly accurate surgery with effective results. Using computer imaging, we can even show you an idea of how you’ll look after your surgery.
When you come into one of our offices for jaw surgery, you will be administered general anesthesia. Keep in mind that oral surgeons are specifically trained in the safe administration of IV anesthesia and that our team of doctors are all experts at sedation and performing safe, comfortable oral surgery.
Incisions are made in the mouth and also on the cheeks if needed. The bones will be mobilized and placed into their planned positions, then fixed with plates and screws. All of the incisions will be stitched closed, and you will rest in our comfortable recovery area until the anesthesia wears off and you can be driven home by your pre-arranged designated driver. Details about the healing process and specific directions will be given to you because we provide all of our patients with detailed pre- and post-operative instructions so that you can have a smooth and speedy recovery.
The results of jaw surgery are apparent immediately and will reveal themselves fully after swelling and bruising subsides, which usually takes a couple of weeks. If you ever have any questions regarding your jaw surgery procedure, or you are experiencing pain beyond what was expected, do not hesitate to contact our office and speak with our trained team of specialists.
Benefits of jaw surgery
Patients who receive jaw surgery can expect to see many benefits, including
- Improved chewing, speech, and breathing function
- Enhanced facial harmony, balance, and aesthetic appearance
- Minimal treatment time
- Minimized excessive wear and breakdown of the teeth
- Improved ability to fully close the lips comfortably
- Relieve TMJ pain
Where can I get jaw surgery in San Francisco?
Drs. Duncan, Scharf, Patwardhan, Tolstunov, and Morrow are all trained in assessing and treating patients with jaw problems who are in need of surgery. We make sure that all of your questions and concerns are addressed prior to your treatment, and provide detailed instructions so that you always know what to expect before and after your procedure. The best way to learn about the details of your specific jaw condition is to schedule a consultation at our Van Ness, Stonestown, or West Portal office in San Francisco, CA. We look forward to meeting you and developing a care plan that works for your individual needs!