Orthognathic Surgery

The main goal of orthognathic surgery are to achieve a correct bite, an aesthetic face and an enlarged airway. Orthognathic surgery is sometimes needed to correct conditions of the jaw and face related to structure, growth, sleep apnea, or other orthodontic problems that cannot be easily treated with braces. Orthognathic surgery is often needed after reconstruction of cleft palate. After braces have straightened the teeth, jaw surgery then corrects the misaligned jaw. Once orthodontic treatment has been initiated, Front Range Dental Center of Fort Collins will work closely with you to achieve a result that includes an enhanced facial appearance and a guided, functional bite.

Conditions of concern to an Orthognathic Surgeon include:

• Difficulty in Chewing, Biting, or Swallowing
• Fractured Facial Bones
• Avulsed / Knocked Out / Missing Teeth
• Chronic Jaw or TMJ Pain
• Open Bite
• Facial Lacerations
• Protruding Jaw
• Breathing Problems
• Recessive Jaw
• Lip Lacerations
• Intra-Oral Lacerations
• Fractured Teeth
• Difficulty Speaking / Speech Problems
• Fractured Jaw

Prior to initiating any procedure, a comprehensive examination is performed and assessment records are created using the latest imaging techniques. Front Range Dental Center can then formulate a personal treatment plan for you, and can demonstrate for you exactly how the surgery will be conducted. We can also show you how your bite and overall appearance will be improved. Our goal is to help you understand the surgical process and the benefits of orthognathic surgery.

If you are a candidate for orthognathic surgery, Front Range Dental Center dentists and orthodontists will work closely with you during your treatment. The actual surgery can move your teeth and jaws into a new position that results in a more attractive, functional and healthy dental and facial relationship.

Recovering From Orthognathic Surgery

Patients who have received an Orthognathic Surgery procedure are usually required to adhere to an all liquid diet, and later soft foods. It is important to eat well after surgery to accelerate the healing process, which can last anywhere from a few weeks for a minor procedure, to several months for more comprehensive surgery. Front Range Dental Center staff will see you frequently over the course of your healing process to ensure that nothing has moved, there are no infections, and your healing process is proceeding normally. Also during this process, our doctors will prescribe pain medication and antibiotics to mitigate discomfort and aid in keeping the area clean and infection free.