• Orthognathic Surgery

How Jaw Surgery Can Help

When severe jaw and bite issues cannot be corrected with braces alone, jaw surgery may be the life-changing solution. At Gibson Orthodontics, we work in close partnership with skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeons to correct significant jaw abnormalities and create a functional, healthy, and beautiful smile.

What is Orthognathic Surgery?

Orthognathic surgery is a corrective procedure performed on the jaws and teeth to realign them. It’s often recommended for patients with a misaligned bite or jaw structure that affects their ability to chew, speak, or breathe properly.

This treatment is a collaborative effort between Dr. Gibson, a highly experienced orthodontist, and an oral surgeon. Dr. Gibson first uses braces to align your teeth in preparation for the surgery, and the surgeon then repositions your jaw bones. After the surgery, Dr. Gibson makes final adjustments to your bite with the braces to achieve the best possible result.

  • Get Help For Advanced Orthodontic Issues

When is Jaw Surgery Necessary?

Jaw surgery is a powerful tool for correcting a range of severe conditions that can’t be fixed with orthodontics alone, including:

Difficulty Chewing or Swallowing

When your upper and lower teeth don't meet correctly, it can lead to inefficient chewing and digestive issues.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Repositioning the jaws can open up the airway, significantly improving breathing and sleep quality.

Chronic TMJ Pain

Misaligned jaws can put stress on the temporomandibular joints, and surgery can relieve this pressure.

Facial Asymmetry

An unbalanced facial structure due to a protruding or receding jaw can be corrected, leading to improved facial harmony.

Severe Underbite or Overbite

When the discrepancy between the upper and lower jaws is too great for traditional braces to fix.

  • Our Approach

The Jaw Surgery Process

Our approach is designed for precision and patient comfort.

  • Comprehensive Consultation

    Dr. Gibson will perform a thorough examination, including advanced imaging, to determine if orthognathic surgery is the right path for you.

  • Pre-Surgical Orthodontics

    We will use braces to prepare your teeth for surgery, ensuring they are in the correct position to fit together perfectly after your jaw is realigned. This phase can take several months.

  • Surgical Planning

    Using cutting-edge digital technology, we will meticulously plan your surgery. We’ll work with your oral surgeon to create a virtual surgical plan, allowing us to accurately predict and visualize your final outcome.

  • The Surgery

    The procedure is performed by a specialized oral surgeon in a hospital setting. The surgeon will move your jaw into its new, pre-planned position and secure it with tiny plates and screws.

  • Post-Surgical Care

    After a short recovery period, Dr. Gibson will make final orthodontic adjustments to perfect your new bite and smile. We’ll be with you every step of the way to monitor your healing and ensure a successful result.
Woman holding an artificial model of teeth

Recovery and Results

Initial recovery from jaw surgery typically takes about six weeks, with most of the swelling subsiding during this time. You’ll be on a liquid or soft food diet to allow the bones to heal. The final, beautiful changes to your facial aesthetics and bite will become fully apparent in the months following the procedure. You’ll not only see a more balanced and confident smile, but you’ll also experience improved chewing, speaking, and breathing.
  • Get Started Today

Your Path to a New Smile Starts Here

If you’re near Henderson, NV and believe that jaw surgery may be the answer to your orthodontic or functional issues, please contact us for a consultation. Schedule your jaw surgery consultation with Dr. Gibson today!

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