Jaw Surgery Can Correct Aesthetic and Functional Concerns
Jaw surgery can alleviate the pain and discomfort that results from misaligned jaws and issues such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Also known as orthognathic surgery, this procedure is necessary when the upper and lower jaws do not properly align and have not responded well to conservative treatments. With an expertise in corrective jaw surgery, Dr. Lifferth at Park City Oral Surgery in Park City, UT, can perform highly accurate procedures with proven results.
Misaligned jaws can be corrected with jaw surgery to alleviate symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Are You a Candidate?
The best candidates for corrective jaw surgery include patients who are in good health and who are unable to correct symptoms through nonsurgical treatments. Potential candidates include those with:
- Chewing, biting, or swallowing issues
- Chronic jaw or TMJ pain
- Speech problems
- Protruding upper or lower jaw
- Nasal issues, such as snoring or difficulty breathing
- Bite issues (cross bite, open bite, under bite)
- Sleep apnea
- Bruxism (teeth grinding and jaw clenching)
- Cosmetic concerns
During an in-depth consultation, Dr. Lifferth and our team can evaluate your jaw to see if surgery is the best option for you. Before repositioning your misaligned jaws, Dr. Lifferth may first recommend straightening your teeth through orthodontics, as dental misalignment is one of the leading causes of TMJ disorder. Straightening your smile beforehand can often ensure an optimal, long-lasting outcome.
Types of Jaw Surgery
Oral surgery generally places incisions inside the mouth, eliminating visible facial incisions and scars. At Park City Oral Surgery, we can perform a variety of techniques, including:
- Upper Jaw Surgery (Maxillary Osteotomy): If you are struggling with an open bite, cross bite, or an overly large or small upper jaw, this surgery may be the best option for you. Dr. Lifferth will make delicate incisions within your lips and cheeks above your teeth in order to access the bone, removing tissue if necessary, and moving your upper jaw, teeth, and roof of your mouth all as one unit. Once the jaw is properly positioned, he can secure it with small titanium screws and plates, and close the incision with dissolvable sutures.
- Lower Jaw (Mandibular Osteotomy): For patients whose lower jaws protrude too far or recede and create a pouty look, Dr. Lifferth will make an incision behind your back teeth (molars) and lower jawbone in order to move your lower jaw into the proper position. Once properly aligned with your upper jaw, he will secure it in place with small screws and close the incision with dissolvable sutures.
- Chin Surgery (Genioplasty): This procedure is often combined with a lower jaw surgery for patients who suffer from a severely receding lower jaw. During this procedure, Dr. Lifferth will remove a piece of the chin bone in order to reposition it further forward on your jaw. He will carefully secure it with screws for the best aesthetics, and close your incisions.
With customized orthognathic surgery, Dr. Lifferth can help alleviate painful symptoms and aesthetic concerns caused by improperly aligned jaws.
Preparing for Your Treatment
During your initial consultation, Dr. Lifferth will take the time to discuss all the steps involved in the procedure and your sedation options available, while also addressing any of your concerns. Each of our staff is well-trained with certifications in administering nitrous oxide and intravenous (IV) sedation. We will help you choose the best option to ensure your comfort throughout your procedure. Dr. Lifferth will also perform a detailed examination with advanced technology to create a detailed surgical plan tailored to your needs.
On the day of your surgery, you will not need to worry about going to another location or medical office. At our state-of-the-art surgical facility, we provide the same features you would find at your local hospital, but in a warm, comfortable, and relaxing environment. However, if you prefer to undergo surgery at a hospital, or your procedure will be more extensive, we can still provide care that the local Park City Medical Center.
Improve Your Jaw Alignment
With customized orthognathic surgery, Dr. Lifferth can help alleviate painful symptoms and aesthetic concerns caused by improperly aligned jaws. Contact us online or call (435) 222-0450 to schedule your consultation.