07 Oct Orthognathic Surgery: Correcting Jaw Alignment for Better Function
Living with jaw pain, an uneven bite, or trouble chewing can make everyday life frustrating. And when braces or orthodontics alone aren’t enough to fix these issues, you might wonder if you need surgery. That’s when orthognathic surgery in Richmond, VA, often called corrective jaw surgery, may be recommended. At our Commonwealth Oral and Facial Surgery office in Richmond, VA, our team helps patients restore comfort, function, and confidence with this procedure.
What Is Corrective Jaw Surgery?
Corrective jaw surgery in Richmond, VA, is designed to move your upper jaw, lower jaw, or both into a healthier position. By realigning the bite, patients often notice:
- Chewing and eating feel easier
- Speaking becomes clearer
- Jaw pain is reduced
- Breathing can even improve in some cases
- The face looks more balanced and proportionate
Think of it as giving your jaws the sturdy foundation they need so the rest of your smile (and your daily life) works the way it should.
Who Might Benefit From Jaw Surgery?
Not everyone needs jaw surgery, but for some patients in Richmond, it can be life-changing. You may be a good candidate if you’ve experienced:
- A strong underbite or overbite
- A jaw or chin that looks uneven
- Difficulty chewing, biting, or swallowing
- Ongoing jaw or TMJ pain
- Sleep problems tied to jaw position, like teeth grinding or sleep apnea
What to Expect From the Process
Every patient’s journey looks a little different, but here’s a general idea of the timeline:
- Consultation and planning. We’ll take X-rays, scans, and impressions to understand your jaw structure.
- Surgery. The procedure will take place in a hospital setting under general anesthesia. During surgery, your jawbones are gently repositioned and secured with small plates or screws.
- Recovery. Most patients rest at home for about two weeks before returning to work or school. Full healing takes several months, but improvements in comfort and function are noticeable much sooner.
Benefits of Corrective Jaw Surgery
Patients often find that the benefits of orthognathic surgery extend far beyond just a better bite:
- Lasting relief from pain. Jaw discomfort and TMJ symptoms often ease or disappear once the bite is corrected.
- Better nutrition. Eating a wider variety of favorite foods without discomfort makes healthy eating more enjoyable.
- Improved confidence. Balanced jaw alignment creates a more natural smile and facial profile.
- Clearer speech. With teeth and jaws in the right position, speaking feels easier and more precise.
- Better sleep. For some patients, jaw surgery reduces teeth grinding or airway issues that disturb sleep.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
If jaw pain, bite problems, or difficulty chewing are affecting your life, jaw surgery in Richmond, VA, may be the solution.
Contact our Richmond, VA office today to schedule your consultation and find out if corrective jaw surgery is right for you.