Surgical Orthodontic TreatmentRathgar
What is Corrective Jaw Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery, commonly known as corrective jaw surgery, is a medical procedure aimed at addressing skeletal and dental abnormalities by realigning the jaws and teeth. This surgery seeks to improve functional capabilities like chewing and speaking, while also enhancing the appearance of the face. Recommended when orthodontic treatments alone cannot rectify skeletal issues, this type of surgery is especially effective for complex cases.While most skeletal discrepancies are mild enough to be managed with orthodontic treatment alone, more severe cases might necessitate orthognathic surgery. During your initial consultation, Dr. O'Connor will assess whether jaw surgery is appropriate for you or if orthodontic solutions can suffice. At Terenure Orthodontics, close to Rathgar, the latest orthodontic technologies are utilised to demonstrate the potential functional and aesthetic benefits of jaw surgery.
How Does Corrective Jaw Surgery Work?
Corrective jaw surgery entails cutting and repositioning the jawbones to achieve proper alignment. The surgeon might add, remove, or reshape bone in the jaw and use screws, plates, or wires to ensure that the new position is secure. This procedure aims to improve jaw functionality, appearance, and overall alignment. Often, this surgery is performed either in conjunction with or following orthodontic treatments, ensuring that the teeth fit correctly once the jaw is properly aligned.It's worth noting that Rathgar is only a short distance from Terenure Orthodontics, making it convenient for nearby residents to access expert orthodontic care.
Parking & Public Transport
We provide free on-street parking along Fortfield Drive, making it simple for our patients to find parking. Frequent bus routes run between Rathgar and Terenure, offering an easy 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.
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 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.