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.
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?
Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
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.
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
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I had to wait quite a while following consultation. I think someone forgot about me. Mistakes can happen. All in all though...quite pleased with the whole experience. Thank you all.
- Sarah L
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
The staff was very friendly. The nurses were very knowledgeable and also friendly and made feel as comfortable as possible, the doctor was very knowledgeable as well and answered all my questions, the whole process was done in a timely manner, I would definitely go back if I needed them again.
- Katie F
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Took care of a difficult situation. Professional and friendly. Would highly recommend.
- Timothy W
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Thank you to Dr Burnett and his staff and Maggie for helping me Wade through that insurance business.. it feels really good to have someone that knows what they're doing help you through these kind of times again thank you so much to Dr Burnett and his staff respectfully Martin
- Martin T
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Great office
- Carrie U
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Amazing staff and atmosphere!!
- Jamie M
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Vertical patient with me. Extremely nice.
- Kathy W
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Thank you for your caring expertise!
- Linda D
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Everyone was very good
- Gordon B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Would 100% recommend coming back here, empathetic and honest. I get anxious when it comes to the dentist and Dr. Burnett does amazing!
- Tyler H
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I very rarely answer surveys as they irritate me and I don't usually give perfect scores as there is always room for improvement. That being said, I sometimes make exceptions. The staff and surgeon could not have been any happier and procedure process any better. Thank you all for a pleasant experience.
- Kelly F
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Thank you all for taking great care of her and making sure everything was explained well.
- Lexus N
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Dr.Burnett is great. He made sure I was comfortable and completely numb before continuing with anything. His bedside manner is amazing and I’d see him every time over.
- Marcy C
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
You guys did a great job, thank you!
- Maddie B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Very kind, helpful and reassuring staff! Great experience!
- Briana W
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Everyone was so kind and gentle and did their best to help calm my nervousness. I can tell all the staff is amazing at what they do!
- Abbigail B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Very happy with staff and procedure
- Michael C
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
Made us feel very comfortable and him in and out quickly.
- Carlen B
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
They made me feel really comfortable when I was letting my anxiety get the best of me! Gave me many chances to ask any questions! Would 100% recommend!
- Jordan H
Our Latest Patient Testimonial
I had an extraction without anesthesia. The staff was awesome. The doctor was kind and explained everything he was doing. It was obvious the staff really cared about the patient.
- Cindy E
