Permanent Solutions for Jaw Alignment at SC Orthodontics in Santa Clarita
When severe jaw misalignment affects your ability to bite or chew, jaw surgery offers a reliable solution. At SC Orthodontics in Santa Clarita, CA, we coordinate this advanced treatment to achieve precise functional improvements.
Understanding Orthognathic Surgery in Santa Clarita
Orthognathic surgery addresses severe abnormalities of the jawbones and teeth that cannot be fixed with braces alone. The procedure involves cutting and moving the bone to realign the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. It is designed to improve the overall function of the mouth, making it easier to bite and chew food.
The surgery is typically part of a broader orthodontic treatment plan. Braces are usually worn for several months before the surgery to prepare the teeth for their new positions. After the jaw heals, braces are used again to fine-tune the final alignment. This coordinated approach guarantees that the teeth and jaws work together perfectly.
Reasons to Consider Orthognathic Surgery
Jaw surgery is often recommended when specific, challenging skeletal movements are required. It offers a level of correction that standard braces cannot match.
Repairing Facial Injury
Trauma to the face can result in broken or misaligned jawbones. Jaw surgery is often necessary to repair the damage and restore the proper function of the jaw. The surgeon will realign the bones and secure them so they heal correctly. This is essential for returning the patient’s bite to normal and preventing future dental problems.
Correcting an Open Bite
An open bite happens when the upper and lower front teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed. This makes it very hard to bite into food and can affect speech. Jaw surgery can adjust the position of the upper or lower jaw to close the gap. This allows the front teeth to meet properly, improving both function and aesthetics.
Alleviating TMJ Pain
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can cause chronic pain in the jaw and face. Sometimes, this pain is the result of a severe jaw misalignment that puts stress on the joint. Jaw surgery can correct the alignment, relieving the pressure on the TMJ. This can significantly reduce pain and improve the patient’s quality of life.
The Consequences of Delaying Jaw Surgery
If jaw surgery is suggested but avoided, the overall orthodontic treatment plan will be severely compromised. This often means settling for a bite that is not fully functional and teeth that are still misaligned. In severe cases, avoiding the surgery might mean that the patient continues to struggle with basic activities like chewing and speaking.
Without the structural correction provided by the surgery, the orthodontist cannot fix the underlying problem. Delaying treatment can also cause unwanted shifting of the teeth, complicating the case further. It is crucial to address the need for surgery promptly to avoid these issues.
Managing Jaw Surgery at SC Orthodontics in Santa Clarita, CA
We focus on clear communication throughout the jaw surgery preparation process. You can trust us to handle your orthodontic treatment with skill and care.
The Initial Surgical Assessment
The first step is a thorough examination by Dr. Haykani to see if jaw surgery will help the treatment plan. We use advanced imaging to find the best approach for the correction. Patients will have plenty of time to ask questions about how the process works. We will explain the reasons why surgery is being recommended and the benefits it will provide.
This initial visit is all about gathering information and planning the best course of action. We will discuss the preparation phase and the recovery required. Our goal is to make sure you feel confident and comfortable with the treatment plan. We will also review the expected timeline for the overall orthodontic treatment.
How the Treatment Process Works in Santa Clarita
Treatment starts with braces to prepare your teeth for the surgical correction. This initial phase can take over a year as we carefully align the teeth within each jaw. When the teeth are in the right spot, the jaw surgery is scheduled with an oral surgeon.
The procedure is done under general anesthesia and involves repositioning the jawbones. Following the surgery, there is a recovery period where the jaw heals in its new position. Once you are cleared by the surgeon, we resume orthodontic adjustments. This post-surgery phase usually lasts about six months to perfect the final alignment.
Aftercare and Final Adjustments
The post-surgery orthodontic phase focuses on perfecting the alignment of your teeth. We will make minor adjustments to your braces to lock in the new bite. This usually involves wearing rubber bands to help the upper and lower teeth settle together. Keeping your teeth and braces clean is very important during this final stage.
We will monitor your progress closely to make sure everything is healing and aligning correctly. This phase typically lasts a few months, depending on how much fine-tuning is needed. Once we are satisfied with the result, we will take your braces off. You will receive retainers to wear at night to maintain the correction.
Reasons to Pick SC Orthodontics for Surgical Planning in Santa Clarita, CA
We are dedicated to providing effective and careful treatment planning for all our surgical patients. Our team is experienced in handling challenging cases with care.
Specialized Training
Dr. Haykani’s background in orthodontics equips her to plan for surgical cases effectively. She knows exactly how to position the teeth to get the best result from the jaw surgery. This specialized knowledge is essential for handling complex skeletal issues. It allows us to offer advanced treatment planning that might not be available elsewhere. We are committed to staying current with the latest techniques in surgical orthodontics.
Supportive Environment
Patient comfort and confidence are top priorities in our office. We work hard to create a calming and supportive environment for patients facing major procedures. We understand that preparing for surgery can be stressful. Our team is here to provide encouragement and clear guidance every step of the way. We want your experience with us to be as positive as possible.
Honest Advice
We only recommend jaw surgery when it will genuinely improve the functional outcome. You can trust that our advice is always based on what is best for the patient’s long-term health. We provide clear and transparent information about all treatment options, including the risks and benefits of surgery. We want you to make informed decisions about your care. We will never recommend a major procedure that is not necessary.
Tailored Treatment Plans
Every patient’s skeletal structure is different, and so is every surgical plan. We customize the orthodontic preparation to address the specific alignment challenges of each individual. We take the time to understand your unique needs and functional goals. This personalized approach makes sure that you receive the best possible care. We do not use a one-size-fits-all method.
Schedule a Surgical Consultation in Santa Clarita, CA
Ready to find out more about how jaw surgery can improve your oral health? Reach out to SC Orthodontics in Santa Clarita, CA, to schedule an appointment. We are ready to answer your questions and plan the next steps. Our team is committed to delivering excellent results for every surgical patient. Call us today to get started.
