Surgical Orthodontic TreatmentHarold's Cross
What is Corrective Jaw Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery, commonly known as corrective jaw surgery, addresses both skeletal and dental irregularities by properly aligning the jaws and teeth. This procedure aims to enhance functions such as chewing and speaking, while also potentially improving facial aesthetics. It is typically recommended when orthodontic treatments alone cannot resolve the underlying skeletal problems.
Most skeletal discrepancies do not necessitate orthognathic surgery, as minor issues can often be corrected with orthodontic treatments alone. During your initial consultation, Dr. O’Connor will determine whether you need jaw surgery or if orthodontic solutions can resolve your condition. Terenure Orthodontics, conveniently located near Harold's Cross, uses advanced orthodontic technologies to demonstrate the potential functional and aesthetic benefits of jaw surgery.
How does Corrective Jaw Surgery work?
Undergoing corrective jaw surgery involves cutting and repositioning the jawbones to achieve proper alignment. Surgeons might add, remove, or reshape bone in the jaw, then secure the new position with screws, plates, or wires. The goal of this surgery is to improve jaw function, appearance, and alignment. It often follows or is done in conjunction with orthodontic treatment to ensure the teeth fit together correctly after the surgery. Harold's Cross is located a short drive from Terenure Orthodontics, making it easily accessible to residents.
Parking & Public Transport
We're happy to offer free on-street parking along Fortfield Drive, ensuring our patients have no difficulty finding a parking space. Direct and regular bus services run between Harold's Cross and Terenure, making public transport a convenient choice for visiting our clinic.
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The Process
This appointment is to discuss your goals with one of our specialist orthodontists. It may also involve your dental and medical history, a physical examination of your teeth and jaw, X-rays, and possibly impressions of your teeth to create models.
The orthodontist will review the X-rays, photos, and examination results to devise a specific plan for moving your teeth into the correct position. This plan will include the estimated length of treatment, cost of treatment and any preparatory work needed.
This might involve dental cleaning, addressing any existing dental issues like cavities, and possibly extracting teeth to create space for adjustments. Once these issues have been adressed, it's time to move onto the next phase!
The orthodontist places attachments onto your teeth to help the aligner grip your teeth. The first course of aligners are then given to you. We ensure that the aligners fit appropriotely at this point and explain everything you need to know to start your journey.
You will have regular appointments (usually every 8-10) for progress checks. During these visits, the orthodontist will check the fit of your aligners and may advise that a new set of aligners are ordered.
The attachments and wires are carefully removed, and any adhesive is cleaned off your teeth. This is usually a quick and painless process.
To keep your teeth in their new position after the braces are removed, most patients will need to wear a retainer full time for a period following the removal of braces, transitioning to night-time wear to ensure teeth do not shift back to their original positions. Read more here.
Book a Consultation
Discuss your goals with one of our specialist orthodontists to find out what treatment option suits you best.
FAQs
Jaw surgery can involve discomfort, managed effectively with pain management techniques and medications. Patients report discomfort rather than severe pain, decreasing during the healing process.
The initial healing period is around 6 weeks, with complete healing up to 12 months. Healing time can vary based on surgery complexity, patient health, and adherence to care instructions.
Surgery duration varies, typically 3 to 5 hours, depending on complexity and goals. More complicated procedures may take longer.
Downsides include a lengthy recovery, risk of complications, temporary changes in eating and speaking, and the need for pre- and post-surgery orthodontic treatments. Our specialists will discuss these risks in detail with you so that you are fully informed.
To find out more, Book a Consultation.
Surgery is typically performed on adults after jaw growth stops, around age 18 for males and 16 for females, depending on individual growth patterns and orthodontic/surgical needs.
Begin Your Journey
Discuss your goals with one of our specialist orthodontists to find out what treatment option suits you best. We offer complimentary online consultations for all patients.