Surgical Orthodontic TreatmentMilltown
What is Corrective Jaw Surgery?
Corrective jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, addresses skeletal and dental discrepancies by realigning the jaws and teeth. This procedure aims to enhance functional abilities, such as chewing and speaking, and also improve facial aesthetics. Frequently, this surgery is suggested when orthodontic treatments are insufficient to resolve the underlying skeletal issues.
Most skeletal misalignments can be managed without orthognathic surgery; orthodontic treatments alone usually suffice for minor problems. During your first visit, Dr. O’Connor will assess if jaw surgery is necessary for your condition or if it can be managed with orthodontics alone. Utilising the latest in orthodontic technologies, Terenure Orthodontics, conveniently located close to Milltown, will illustrate the functional and aesthetic enhancements achievable through jaw surgery.
How does Corrective Jaw Surgery work?
Corrective jaw surgery involves cutting and repositioning the jawbones to achieve proper alignment. The surgeons may add, remove, or reshape bone in the jaw and secure it with screws, plates, or wires in its new position. The goal of this surgery is to improve the jaw's function, appearance, and alignment. It is often performed following or in conjunction with orthodontic treatments to ensure that the teeth fit together correctly once the surgery is completed. Notably, Milltown is a short drive from Terenure Orthodontics, making it convenient for local patients.
Parking & Public Transport
Take advantage of free on-street parking on Fortfield Drive, ensuring our patients can easily secure a parking space. Frequent bus services run between Milltown and Terenure, offering a practical public transport option to visit 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.
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.