Surgical Orthodontic TreatmentKimmage
Understanding Corrective Jaw Surgery
Corrective jaw surgery, known as orthognathic surgery, is designed to resolve skeletal and dental irregularities by realigning the jaws and teeth. This surgical procedure aims to improve essential functions like chewing and speaking, and it often enhances the facial appearance as well. Orthognathic surgery is typically recommended when orthodontic treatments alone fail to rectify the underlying skeletal issues.
Most skeletal discrepancies do not necessitate orthognathic surgery; orthodontic treatments can often correct minor conditions effectively. During your initial consultation, Dr. O’Connor will assess whether jaw surgery is needed or if your situation can be managed with orthodontic care. Not far from Kimmage, Terenure Orthodontics uses the latest advancements in orthodontic techniques to show the potential functional and aesthetic benefits of corrective jaw surgery.
The Process of Corrective Jaw Surgery
Undergoing corrective jaw surgery involves the surgical cutting and repositioning of the jawbones to achieve proper alignment. Surgeons may need to add, remove, or reshape the jawbone, fixing it in the new position with screws, plates, or wires. This procedure aims to enhance jaw function, appearance, and alignment, often in combination with orthodontic treatments to ensure a perfect fit of the teeth post-surgery. Just a short distance away in Kimmage, patients can access these advanced treatments at Terenure Orthodontics.
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Benefit from free on-street parking on Fortfield Drive, making it straightforward for our patients to find parking. There are frequent bus services between Kimmage and Terenure, offering a reliable public transport option to reach the 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.
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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.
Read what our patients say about us
"Two of my daughters had braces fitted by the lovely Dr. Katherine Condren. I would highly recommend her services, she was so good with my daughters, we are extremely happy with the service received and they both have beautiful smiles now."
"Dr Joseph O’Connor is such a skilled orthodontist. His kindness and attention to detail is outstanding. He takes the time to explain everything and makes you feel very comfortable. Could not recommend him more."
"Joseph is a kind, compassionate and skilled orthodontist. He has a beautiful patient manner and his attention to detail is second to none. Highly recommend."
"I had a great experience with Dr O’Connor and his team. Booking was simple and they were very friendly & efficient throughout. Would highly recommended."
"Amazing service, highly professional. Dr O'Connor was really kind and knowledgeable. Would highly recommend!"
"Extremely happy with the outcome after braces, great attention to detail! Highly recommend."
"Dr O'Connor is a brilliant orthodontist, the consultation was thorough and he's easy to talk to."
Book a Free 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.
Jaw surgery is a major procedure, involving changes to jaw bone structure and requiring experienced surgical execution. It underscores the importance of a skilled surgical team.
Corrective jaw surgery can significantly improve jaw function, appearance, and quality of life, often recommended for severe misalignments not correctable with orthodontics alone.
Surgery duration varies, typically 3 to 5 hours, depending on complexity and goals. More complicated procedures may take longer.
Jaw surgery carries risks like infection, bleeding, and nerve damage, but risks are minimized with skilled surgeons. Discuss potential risks and benefits with your surgeon.
Downsides include a lengthy recovery, risk of complications, temporary changes in eating and speaking, and the need for pre- and post-surgery orthodontic treatments.
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.
