What Is Corrective Jaw Surgery?
When a patient has a severely misaligned bite, traditional orthodontics (like metal braces) may not be enough to treat the issue. Corrective jaw surgery (also known as orthognathic surgery) helps correct severe misalignment, going beyond orthodontics by addressing underlying skeletal issues that not only affect your bite but also your speech, breathing, and overall facial balance. Jaw correction surgery can be performed on the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), chin, or a combination of areas, depending on the patient's specific needs. At Huntsville Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, Dr. S. Clint Hudson performs orthognathic surgery with a focus on correcting bite issues and restoring a more even, confident smile. If you're living with jaw misalignment, schedule a consultation at our practice in Huntsville, AL to learn how corrective jaw surgery can improve your facial harmony and quality of life.
How Does Corrective Jaw Surgery Work?
Before developing your surgical plan, Dr. Hudson will start with a thorough consultation, using our office's advanced 3D dental imaging tools to get a more detailed view of your teeth and jaw. Based on your bite alignment, he may first recommend an orthodontic treatment to align your teeth before surgery. We'll start your corrective jaw surgery by administering general anesthesia. Once you're under, Dr. Hudson will make careful incisions inside your mouth to access the jawbone while avoiding visible scarring. Once he has access, he'll manipulate your jawbone to move it into its proper place, where it will be secured with small plates, screws, or wires. Depending on the complexity of the case, your jaw correction surgery may involve the upper jaw, lower jaw, chin, or multiple areas.
The recovery timeline after corrective jaw surgery varies by case, but most patients can expect initial healing within a few weeks and a return to normal function over the course of 2 – 3 months. Full recovery may take as long as 12 months as swelling subsides and the bite continues to adjust.
What Are the Benefits of Corrective Jaw Surgery?
While jaw correction surgery is often celebrated for its functional benefits, it can also significantly improve the appearance of your smile by bringing the upper and lower jaws into alignment. This comprehensive approach offers a range of oral health benefits for our patients in and around Huntsville, AL, including:
- Improves your ability to chew, speak, and breathe
- Corrects facial imbalance and jaw asymmetry
- Reduces or eliminates jaw and TMJ pain
- Enhances smile aesthetics and overall facial harmony
- Addresses sleep apnea and breathing-related issues
- Helps prevent long-term dental problems due to misalignment
- Can significantly boost self-confidence and quality of life
Huntsville Oral Surgery & Dental Implants Reviews
Pleasant experience all around! Everyone was so helpful and friendly!
Was seen immediately when I experienced a dental problem and surgery scheduled. Staff were very friendly and helpful. Dr Hudson was very kind and reassuring. Have had excellent results from surgery and recovery.Thank you!
Everything was on point and staff was great. I was as very happy with the services I received.
They worked me in short notice, were very helpful. Nurse was as friendly and made me feel comfortable. Dr was positive and helpful, told me what he thought and not just to do a surgery on me. I will be back if I need any oral surgery! Thanks
Wow they were great got my tooth out fast and save no pain
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is corrective jaw surgery painful?
Corrective jaw surgery is performed under general anesthesia, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. After surgery, some discomfort, swelling, and soreness are normal, but these can be managed with prescribed medications and proper aftercare. Most patients in Huntsville, AL, report that the pain significantly decreases after the first few days of recovery.
How will my diet change after surgery?
After surgery, you’ll start with a liquid diet and gradually transition to soft foods as your healing progresses. Most patients can return to a normal diet within 6–8 weeks. Our team at Huntsville Oral Surgery & Dental Implants will provide specific dietary guidelines to ensure proper healing and comfort.
Will corrective jaw surgery change my appearance?
Yes, corrective jaw surgery often improves facial symmetry, resulting in subtle but noticeable changes to your appearance. These changes are usually a positive enhancement, as the surgery aims to create a more harmonious and balanced facial structure. Dr. Hudson will discuss potential aesthetic outcomes during your consultation.
Improve Your Smile's Form and Function
If jaw pain, bite issues, or facial imbalance are impacting your daily life, corrective jaw surgery may be the solution you've been looking for. At Huntsville Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, Dr. Hudson and our experienced team provide advanced jaw correction surgery using the latest technology and techniques to ensure optimal results and a safe, smooth recovery. We'll guide you through every step of the process to help you regain comfort, function, and confidence in your smile. Schedule a consultation at our Huntsville, AL office, and let us help you restore balance where it matters most.