When Is Corrective Jaw Surgery Necessary? Signs and Symptoms

Corrective jaw surgery is something most people are familiar with but may not fully understand. Jaw surgery may be recommended for a variety of reasons from cosmetic to orthodontic, and you may be wondering if it is truly necessary for yourself or your child. 

Dentists and oral surgeons are trained to recognize when jaw surgery may be necessary. For most people, however, the signs can be much harder to identify. Knowing the early signs and symptoms of jaw misalignment is helpful so that if they occur, you are more likely to notice and seek treatment. 

What Is Corrective Jaw Surgery?

Corrective jaw surgery (also known as orthognathic surgery) involves surgically modifying the shape of the jaw. It can be done on the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both jaws depending on the patient’s needs. The procedure is customized to the specific individual to reach the desired results. 

Jaw surgery can address: 

• Bite misalignment. The upper and lower teeth do not meet together properly, resulting in overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite. 
• Facial profile. The jaw may be too retruded or prominent relative to the rest of the face, affecting appearance. 
• Abnormal growth. The jaw does not always develop properly, making surgery necessary to correct growth and restore facial symmetry.  

Common Signs You May Need Corrective Jaw Surgery

Key symptoms include:

• Your teeth don’t fit together properly
• Difficulty chewing or biting
• Chronic jaw pain or TMJ discomfort
• Speech difficulties
• Breathing issues, including sleep apnea
• Facial imbalance or asymmetry

These symptoms may vary in terms of severity, but they impact daily life and oral health. If you or your child are experiencing one or any combination of these, corrective jaw surgery could be a possible solution. 

Underlying Causes of Jaw Misalignment

Jaw misalignment can come from a variety of causes such as:

• Genetics. Jaw growth is predominantly controlled by genetics, meaning it can run in the family. 
• Developmental issues. Delayed growth, congenital conditions, or other medical problems can affect the jaw
• Injury. An injury to the jaw due to an accident or fall can interrupt normal growth 
• Joint disorders. Damage or disease of the temporomandibular joints (jaw joints) can change the jaw position over time

Most of the above occur during childhood or adolescence when you are still growing but may not be diagnosed until adulthood. 

Benefits of Corrective Jaw Surgery

Corrective jaw surgery can improve the following: 

• Chewing capabilities. When the upper and lower teeth meet together properly, chewing is more effective. 
• Comfort. Jaw pain can be reduced or even eliminated when the teeth fit in their ideal position  
• Appearance. Facial symmetry can be improved, resulting in a more natural appearance. 
• Oral health. Proper jaw alignment allows for better oral hygiene of the teeth and surrounding tissue  
• Quality of life. Corrective jaw surgery can make positive changes that improve your overall quality of life.

Taking the Next Step Toward Better Jaw Health

It is important to recognize the symptoms and seek expert care at the first sign. The sooner corrective jaw surgery takes place, the lower the risk of long-term damage and the sooner you can experience the benefits. Contact us at Long Island Oral Maxillofacial Surgery today to schedule an evaluation. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Corrective Jaw Surgery

How do I know if my jaw alignment is abnormal?

If you notice any of the common signs, such as teeth not fitting together, jaw pain, difficulty chewing, or facial asymmetry, you may have abnormal jaw alignment. The best way to find out is to schedule a professional evaluation. 

Is corrective jaw surgery only for severe cases?

Mild cases may require orthodontic treatment alone. In cases where the jaw is severely misaligned or braces alone could not fix the bite, surgery may be required. An oral surgeon would be able to determine whether surgery is indicated and talk to your orthodontist to develop a treatment plan.

How long is recovery after jaw surgery?

One week of full recovery at home is expected after jaw surgery. After two weeks, patients are able to resume light daily activities like going to the store, taking walks and possibly returning to work (light desk job). Between two to four weeks, patients notice a significant improvement in swelling, energy levels and comfort. After six weeks, patients are back to their baseline and able to exercise and eat without restrictions. 

Will I need braces before or after surgery?

In most cases, orthodontic treatment is recommended both before and after surgery. This allows for optimal alignment of the teeth and bite for long-term success. 

Does insurance cover corrective jaw surgery?

If jaw surgery is considered to be medically necessary, it will most likely be covered by your medical insurance. However, plans vary. For specific information about your coverage, contact your provider. 

At Long Island Oral Maxillofacial Surgery, we are committed to providing advanced surgical care with a strong focus on patient comfort and personalized treatment. Our experienced team uses proven techniques and modern technology to deliver precise, effective results for every patient. We take the time to understand your needs and guide you through every step of your care with confidence and clarity. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.