Jaw Surgery – Oral Trauma
What is jaw surgery?
Orthognathic surgery, or jaw surgery, repositions the jawbone to correct skeletal defects.
Who needs jaw surgery?
When the jaw is deformed, patients can experience difficulty chewing, biting, speaking, swallowing, and properly closing the mouth and lips. They may also suffer from dry mouth, bruxism, jaw and joint pain, headaches, and mouth breathing. A protruding upper or lower jaw can also negatively affect appearance. In an interdisciplinary approach, your oral surgeon will work with your general dentist and orthodontist to determine whether jaw surgery is indicated. Often, jaw surgery is coupled with orthodontic therapy for optimal results.
What is oral trauma?
Oral trauma involves injury to the face and/or mouth. Facial fractures, cuts, and knocked out teeth are common with oral trauma.
What if I have a tooth knocked out?
If possible, place the tooth in salt water or milk, and go straight to your dentist’s office. The tooth may be saved if it is placed back into the socket promptly after the injury. Do not wipe the tooth off, as you may damage essential ligaments necessary for healing.
How is oral trauma surgery performed?
As with any bone surgery, every case is unique. The oral surgeon will assess your X-rays to determine the extent of your injuries. Soft tissue lesions will be addressed first. The surgeon will focus on repairing your soft tissues so that nerves and glands are preserved as much as possible, and cosmetics are a big factor, as well. Depending on your hard tissue injuries (bones and teeth), the doctor will create a treatment plan that will yield optimal results.
Reserve Your Appointment
Whether you come to us for oral surgery on referral from your general dentist, or you would like to explore the possibility of dental implants, non-surgical cosmetic facial procedures, sleep apnea therapy, or TMJ dysfunction and headache relief, our doctors and team will be pleased to welcome you to our office. We will gain a comprehensive understanding of your oral health and history, as well as your concerns and goals, then provide the information and consultation you need to make wise decisions about the future of your oral health. Call today to reserve your initial consultation with Dr. Oneacre or Dr. Shillingburg.
