Orthognathic Surgery in Princeton and Flemington, NJ

Correcting Jaw Irregularities for a Healthier Bite

Orthognathic surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery, is a transformative procedure used to treat a wide range of minor and major skeletal and dental irregularities. The surgery involves repositioning the jaws to create a healthier, more functional bite and a more balanced facial appearance. The board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons at West Jersey Oral, Maxillofacial, & Dental Implant Surgery are experts in this complex field, helping patients improve their ability to chew, speak, and breathe more easily.

Who is a Candidate for Corrective Jaw Surgery?

Corrective jaw surgery is a solution for functional problems that cannot be resolved with orthodontics alone. You may be a candidate for this procedure if you experience any of the following:

• Difficulty chewing, biting, or swallowing
• Chronic jaw or TMJ pain
• An open bite (space between the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed)
• A protruding lower jaw or a receding chin
• Unbalanced facial appearance from the front or side
• Breathing problems, including obstructive sleep apnea

A Collaborative Approach to Your Care

Orthognathic surgery is a team effort that involves a close partnership between your oral surgeon and your orthodontist. Typically, your orthodontist will use braces to straighten and align your teeth within each arch. Once your teeth are properly aligned, your oral surgeon will then perform the surgery to reposition your jaw or jaws into the correct alignment. After the surgery, your orthodontist will complete the treatment, fine-tuning your bite to its ideal final position.

Technology and Surgical Planning

Our practice utilizes the most advanced technology to plan and perform corrective jaw surgery. We use state-of-the-art 3D imaging and sophisticated computer software to conduct virtual surgical planning (VSP). This allows our surgeons to create a digital model of your face and jaws and to simulate the entire surgery with incredible precision. This process not only leads to a more predictable and accurate outcome but also allows you to see a preview of your expected results before the procedure even takes place.

The Surgical Procedure

Corrective jaw surgery is performed in a hospital setting under general anesthesia to ensure your complete safety and comfort. In most cases, all of the surgical incisions are made inside the mouth to avoid any visible facial scars. Your surgeon will reposition the jawbones according to the precise surgical plan, and the bones are held in their new position with small, strong titanium plates and screws.