Orthognathic surgery, or jaw straightening surgery, involves a spectrum of surgical procedures on the upper jaw, lower jaw and chin, to improve both form and function
Orthognathic surgery may be undertaken to improve how the teeth fit together, to normalize or optimize facial proportions and/or to treat obstructive sleep apnea.
Whether you want to improve your appearance or are experiencing functional problems, orthognathic surgery can be a life-changing procedure.
Oral surgery is available at Paramount Dental Care & Specialty in Long Beach and the surrounding area. For many patients, oral surgery is the solution they need after other dental treatments have failed. Call us today at (562) 450-1261 to learn more and schedule an appointment.
Good candidates for orthognathic surgery include:
Orthognathic surgery is not the only modality to correct bite discrepancies, facial imbalances or obstructive sleep apnea, and other less invasive procedures may be appropriate. Your plastic surgeon will evaluate your facial anatomy thoroughly and will discuss what procedures might best remedy your concerns.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Orthognathic Surgery in Long Beach, CA
Oral surgery may help with several conditions. Some of the most common include:
It is important to remember that the above list is not exhaustive. Patients should consult with a professional to ensure which treatment option is right for them.
Oral surgery can be a complicated process. Taking a few easy steps can help simplify the process. Patients should maintain open and honest channels of communication with their dental professional at all times. There is no shame in asking questions. Being informed about what is going to happen and why can do a great deal to assuage any fears.
Those who will undergo sedation should not eat or drink anything, including water, after midnight the evening before surgery. Fasting prevents the chances of aspiration, a rare complication of anesthesia in which the lungs fill with the contents of the stomach. However, a small sip of water to take medication during the fast is permissible.
Many patients find it benefits them to arrive at least 20 minutes early on the day of the surgery, allowing them to complete any paperwork and relax. Additionally, patients with removable dental devices should come with a container to store them in during surgery.
Patients who will be undergoing sedation should arrive wearing loose, short-sleeved clothing to assist staff in taking vital signs and administering the IV. It may also be necessary for nurses to put blood pressure cuffs on the patient to monitor them during the procedure.
Patients should plan to spend the day resting after oral surgery. The drowsiness of the sedative will likely last all day, making it important for patients to avoid doing anything that requires concentration. Patients should also refrain from straining to avoid dislodging any blood clots and causing bleeding. They should also keep their heads elevated whenever they are lying down.
Above all, it is crucial to follow the dentist's instructions for your individualized treatment plan. If you contract a fever, develop pus, or notice your swelling and bruising getting worse after three days, call our office right away.
Q. How should I prepare for oral surgery?
Q. What will happen on the day of my oral surgery?
Q. How can I speed up my recovery from oral surgery?
Q. How long will my face swelling last after oral surgery?
A. Facial swelling is likely in the first 24 hours following oral surgery. Typically, this lasts for five to seven days, with varying degrees of intensity. Once the swelling has subsided, you will probably notice some bruising. This should fade considerably by the 10-day mark.
Q. When can I return to my normal diet after oral surgery?
A. Most patients can return to their regular diet about a week after oral surgery. This is a gradual change, and you should avoid any spicy or acidic foods until then. You will need to stick to liquids and soft foods for the first two days following surgery. You can start incorporating low-chew foods on day three.
Q. What causes a "dry socket" after oral surgery?
A. "Dry sockets," or alveolar osteitis, are blood clots that appear in extraction sites and break down prematurely. These usually result from overexertion, smoking, and poor oral hygiene during the postoperative period. Sometimes, they happen without a clear cause. Symptoms include bad breath, foul odor and taste, and increased pain. If you suspect you have developed a "dry socket," contact our office immediately.
Q. Is oral surgery painful?
A. Patients are under anesthesia during oral surgery, meaning you will not feel any pain during the procedure. However, you will likely feel some pain and discomfort after surgery once the anesthetic has worn off. Our team can give you recommendations or prescribe appropriate medication to help manage this pain.
Q. Can I drive myself to and from my oral surgery?
A. No. Patients should make plans for someone they trust to drive them to and from the procedure. Anesthetics and sedatives can negatively affect one's ability to drive, making it dangerous to be on the road.
By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need. Instead of waiting around and allowing the symptoms to get worse, we can provide you with treatment options.
Sometimes, only oral surgery can adequately address your dental issues. We at Paramount Dental Care & Specialty may be able to help. Call us today at 562-450-1261
Back to top of Orthognathic Surgery
