Orthognathic surgery, or corrective jaw surgery, is a specialized field of dentistry that involves the surgical correction of various anomalies and deformities of the jaw. This type of surgery is often performed in conjunction with orthodontic treatment to improve both the functionality and aesthetics of a patient's facial structure.
Orthodontic Orthognathic Surgery
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on correcting irregularities of the teeth and jaw. Orthognathic surgery is often a part of a comprehensive treatment plan for patients with severe misalignment of the jaws, difficulty chewing, or breathing problems due to skeletal disharmonies.
Pre-Surgical Orthodontic Considerations
Before undergoing orthognathic surgery, patients must undergo a thorough evaluation to assess their overall dental and skeletal condition. This evaluation helps orthodontists and oral surgeons develop an individualized treatment plan that addresses the patient's specific needs.
1. Coordination between Orthodontists and Oral Surgeons
One of the key pre-surgical orthodontic considerations is effective coordination between the orthodontist and the oral surgeon. A close collaboration allows for proper alignment of the teeth and jaws before surgery, greatly contributing to the success of the overall treatment.
2. Dental and Skeletal Evaluation
Patients must undergo a comprehensive dental and skeletal evaluation, including dental impressions, x-rays, and 3D imaging. This evaluation helps in identifying the extent of misalignment and any underlying skeletal abnormalities that need to be addressed during surgery.
3. Orthodontic Treatment Initiation
Prior to orthognathic surgery, patients may require an initial phase of orthodontic treatment to align the teeth and create an optimal dental arch form. This phase may involve the use of braces or clear aligners to correct dental crowding, spacing, or malocclusions.
4. Jaw Positioning Planning
Orthodontists and oral surgeons work together to plan the final positioning of the jaws after surgery. This involves detailed analysis and visualization of the desired end result using advanced orthodontic and surgical tools.
5. Treatment Duration and Compliance
Patient compliance and dedication to the orthodontic treatment plan are crucial to achieving the desired results. Patients must adhere to the prescribed treatment duration, which may extend even after the surgical intervention.
6. Soft Tissue Considerations
Orthodontists and oral surgeons also consider the impact of orthognathic surgery on the soft tissues of the face. The final jaw position significantly affects the lips, cheeks, and overall facial aesthetics, which is an essential aspect of the treatment planning.
Conclusion
Pre-surgical orthodontic considerations play a pivotal role in the success of orthognathic surgery. A thorough evaluation and effective coordination between orthodontists and oral surgeons are essential for achieving optimal outcomes and ensuring the long-term stability of the results. By addressing dental and skeletal concerns before surgery, patients can benefit from improved facial aesthetics, functional bite, and overall oral health.