Orthognathic Surgery

Corrective Jaw Surgery

Orthognathic surgery is needed when the top and bottom jaws don’t meet correctly and/or teeth don’t adequately fit within the jaw. Teeth are straightened with orthodontics, and corrective jaw surgery repositions a misaligned jaw. This not only improves facial appearance, but also ensures that teeth meet correctly and function properly.

Orthognathic Surgery Presentation

To provide you with a better understanding of orthognathic surgery, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to orthognathic surgery are discussed.

Click to start the Orthodontic Presentation

Who needs orthognathic surgery?

People who can benefit from orthognathic surgery include those with an improper bite, or jaws that are positioned incorrectly. Jaw growth is a gradual process and in some instances, the upper and lower jaws may grow at different rates. The result can be a host of problems that may affect chewing function, speech, or long-term oral health and appearance. Injury to the jaw and birth defects can also affect jaw alignment. Orthodontics alone can correct bite problems when only the teeth are involved. Orthognathic surgery may be required for the jaws when repositioning is necessary.

Difficulty in the following areas should be evaluated:

  • Difficulty in chewing, biting, or swallowing
  • Speech problems
  • Chronic jaw pain
  • Open bite
  • Protruding jaw
  • Breathing problems

Any of these symptoms can exist at birth, be acquired after birth as a result of hereditary or environmental influences, or as a result of trauma to the face. Before any treatment begins, a consultation will be held to perform a complete examination with x-rays. During the pre-treatment consultation process, feel free to ask any questions that you have regarding your treatment. When you are fully informed about the aspects of your care, you and your dental team can make the decision to proceed with treatment together.

Do You Need Jaw Surgery?

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Technology & Orthognathic Surgery

Dr. Burnett and Dr. Bays use modern computer-aided techniques and three-dimensional models to show you exactly how your surgery will be approached. Using comprehensive facial x-rays and computer video imaging, we can show you how your bite will be improved and even give you an idea of how you’ll look after surgery. This helps you understand the surgical process and the extent of the proposed treatment.

If you are a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, Drs. Burnett or Bays will work closely with your dentist and orthodontist during your treatment. The actual surgery can move your teeth and jaws into a new position that results in a more attractive, functional, and healthy dental-facial relationship.

A patient getting a panoramic x-ray of her jaw

What to Expect

  • Corrective jaw surgery is a significant intervention requiring many months of preparation.
  • The surgery is performed in the hospital and can last between one to four hours.
  • Hospital stays of one to three days are normal.
  • Braces are maintained during surgery and may need to be removed six to twelve months after surgery.
  • The greatest impact of orthognathic surgery is the recovery phase.
  • Patients typically may be off work/school from two weeks to one month after surgery.
  • Return to normal chewing function may take 2 months and full
    function may take one year.
  • Our goal is to ensure you are well taken care of during and after surgery.
  • Weekly appointments are required for up to two months after surgery.

Oral & Facial Surgery Center of Joplin

5 out of 5 stars based on 309 Jaw Surgery reviews

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I don't like dentist....but this one is the best ever!!!

- Ava G

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Could not have asked for better care! The staff and Dr. Burnett were exceptional!

- Danelle H

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Fast efficient friendly. As professional as I have ever experienced in a medical procedure. I would recommend to anyone with issues requiring an oral surgeon.

- Richard D

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Hands down a great doc and staff

- Brian S

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Wonderful experience at Oral & Facial Surgery Center of Joplin! Dr. Bays and the staff were all caring and knowledgeable. We would highly recommend them to family and friends.

- Nathan D

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Wonderful surgical staff & Doctor Bays!!

- Cindy M

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Dr. Bays did a fantastic job with our son. It was comforting to have confidence that he was in good hands. The doctor did well in answering all questions and easing all concerns prior to the procedure. My son's case wasn't just wisdom teeth, as he had a couple of other unique teeth that had to be extracted as well. Despite this added challenge, our son recovered rather quickly and was pleased at how it all went.

- Mark L

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

I had 2 teeth that were bad. Dr. Bays did a great job. I feel allot better now.

- Lester Charles L

5 out of 5 stars on

Our Latest Patient Testimonial

Outstanding experience at this office!

- Jonathan S

5 out of 5 stars on