Portland Oral and Facial Surgery is open with busines hours M-T 8am to 4:30pm and 8-2pm Fridays. Please call us at 503-230-0322,  email [email protected] or send us a message using the “book appointment link”. For referrals, please click our “referrals” tab to access the forms.

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Portland Oral and Facial Surgery: Corrective Jaw Surgery

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At Portland Oral and Facial Surgery, we provide comprehensive and personalized care for patients requiring corrective jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery. This complex procedure, performed by our skilled and experienced oral surgeons, can drastically improve the quality of life for those experiencing functional and aesthetic problems due to jaw irregularities.

Understanding the Need for Corrective Jaw Surgery

Corrective jaw surgery may become necessary when orthodontic treatment alone cannot correct or improve specific problems with your jaws or teeth. Reasons for needing orthognathic surgery may include:
  • Improving Chewing, Speech or Breathing: Misaligned jaws can cause difficulties with everyday functions, such as eating or speaking, and may even lead to breathing problems. Corrective jaw surgery can improve these basic oral functions.
  • Facial Imbalance: Some individuals may have disproportionate facial aspects due to elongated or shortened jaws. Corrective surgery can bring harmony to the facial features.
  • Chronic Jaw or TMJ Pain: Persistent pain in the jaw or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can often be resolved with jaw surgery.
  • Sleep Apnea: In severe cases, misaligned jaws can contribute to problems like sleep apnea and snoring. Surgery can often help improve these conditions.

Common Types of Corrective Jaw Surgery

The type of corrective jaw surgery performed depends on the specific needs of the patient. Some common procedures include:
  • Maxillary Osteotomy (Upper Jaw): This procedure corrects issues like open bite, crossbite, or significantly receded upper jaw. It involves cutting and repositioning the upper jaw to align properly with the lower jaw.
  • Mandibular Osteotomy (Lower Jaw): This procedure can correct a receded or protruding lower jaw by cutting behind the molars and lengthening or shortening the jaw.
  • Chin Surgery (Genioplasty): If the problem lies with the chin and not the jaw, genioplasty can be performed to either reduce an overly prominent chin or augment a deficient one.
  • TMJ Surgery: In cases where the TMJ is causing chronic pain or dysfunction, surgery may be required to repair or replace the joint.

Medical Conditions That Precipitate the Need for Jaw Surgery

Certain medical conditions may also necessitate corrective jaw surgery, including:
  • Congenital Conditions: Some people are born with birth defects that cause jaw misalignment, such as cleft palate or Pierre Robin syndrome.
  • Trauma to the Jaw: Accidents or injuries can sometimes cause jaw misalignment or dysfunction.
  • Orthodontic Problems: Conditions like severe overbite, underbite, or crossbite may require surgical intervention.
  • Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: Chronic conditions affecting the TMJ can cause persistent pain and functional problems, which may require surgery.
At Portland Oral and Facial Surgery, we use the latest technology and techniques to ensure the safest, most effective results for our patients requiring corrective jaw surgery. Our goal is to improve your oral function, alleviate discomfort, and enhance your facial aesthetics. Contact us today to learn more about your options or to schedule a consultation.