Corrective Jaw Surgery In San Jose, CA

My AZ Dental provides clear information for patients in San Jose, CA, who are considering jaw surgery. Also called orthognathic surgery, jaw surgery can correct bite problems, improve function, and enhance facial balance. This page outlines when treatment is recommended, how the process works, benefits, risks, and recovery timelines so you know what to expect.

Jaw Surgery Explained

Jaw surgery addresses skeletal differences between the upper and lower jaws that braces or aligners alone cannot fix. When the jaws do not align, chewing, speech, airway size, and joint comfort can be affected. Common reasons include a significant underbite or overbite, an open bite, facial asymmetry, or growth issues after injury. If you have wondered “What is orthognathic surgery?” it is a planned procedure to reposition one or both jaws so the teeth and jaws fit together correctly.

Corrective jaw surgery is often performed in coordination with orthodontic care. Pre-surgical orthodontics help position the teeth for the new jaw alignment, and finishing adjustments follow surgery. This team approach aims for a stable, healthy bite and predictable results.

How Jaw Surgery Can Help You

  • Improves chewing efficiency and protects teeth from excessive wear.
  • Helps close an open bite and balances an overbite or underbite.
  • Enhances facial harmony and jawline proportion in a natural way.
  • May increase airway space and reduce mouth breathing in some cases.
  • Can reduce strain on the jaw joints by aligning the bite more evenly.

Benefits vary by case, but many patients notice better comfort, clearer speech, and easier biting after healing. These corrective jaw surgery benefits can last long term when paired with quality orthodontic care and follow-up.

How Jaw Surgery Works

The treatment plan is individualized and includes several phases:

  • Evaluation And Planning: Your exam may include X-rays, 3D imaging, photos, and digital models. Virtual planning helps determine precise jaw movements.
  • Pre-Surgical Orthodontics: Braces or clear aligners align teeth for surgery. This phase can take several months, depending on the bite.
  • Day Of Surgery: Procedures are performed under general anesthesia in a hospital or accredited surgery center. Incisions are usually inside the mouth. The surgeon repositions the jaw bones and secures them with small titanium plates and screws.
  • Guiding The Bite: Elastics may be used to guide the new bite. Modern techniques rarely require wiring the jaws shut.
  • Post-Surgical Orthodontics: Braces or aligners refine the bite after healing for a stable finish.

How long does jaw surgery take? A single-jaw procedure may take about two to four hours, while double-jaw surgery may take three to six hours. Times vary with case complexity.

What To Expect

Preparation and recovery are as important as the procedure itself. Anesthesia for jaw surgery is general anesthesia, and most patients spend one night in the hospital. Swelling peaks around 48 to 72 hours and improves over several weeks.

Before Surgery

  • Attend planning visits and complete medical reviews and lab work as directed.
  • Arrange help at home, prepare soft foods, and plan time off work or school.
  • Avoid tobacco and follow all pre-op instructions about food, drink, and medications.

After Surgery

  • Expect facial swelling, bruising, and temporary numbness, especially of the lower lip and chin.
  • Use cold compresses, keep your head elevated, and take medications as prescribed.
  • Begin with liquids, then a soft diet for several weeks. Avoid hard or chewy foods until cleared.
  • Maintain gentle oral hygiene with a soft brush and any recommended rinses.
  • Attend all follow-up appointments and resume activity gradually.

Recovery after jaw surgery varies, but many patients return to nonstrenuous activities within two weeks, with full healing taking several months. Jaw alignment surgery risks include infection, bleeding, temporary or persistent nerve changes, bite relapse, hardware irritation, and the rare need for revision. Every case is unique, so follow your surgeon’s instructions closely.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jaw Surgery