Sometimes jaw issues that can’t be resolved by orthodontic treatment alone may require jaw surgery. Jaw surgery may also be needed as a means to open the airway for patients with moderate to severe sleep apnea. Jaw surgery is a procedure that corrects the irregularities of the jawbones, realigning the jaws, teeth, and soft tissue to harmonize their function.

Issues that may require jaw surgery include problems with swallowing or speech, difficulty chewing, incorrect mouth closure or facial asymmetry, pain due to an improper bite, or obstructive sleep apnea relief. Jaw surgery is considered an option once the growing period has ended, typically around 14-16 years for females and 17-21 years for males.

Braces or aligners are often worn before the procedure and during the recovery period after jaw surgery. Dr. Bockow and Dr. Truong of Inspired Orthodontics will work with you to determine the optimum treatment plan for your particular needs. If you have been considering jaw surgery to improve the quality of your life, give Inspired Orthodontics a call at (206) 623-2192.