Jaw pain and discomfort disrupt your life — learn more about corrective surgery.
In part one, we explored some of the signs that corrective surgery may be needed and in part two, we’ll investigate a few more while also looking at what causes jaw abnormalities and how to better determine if you’re a candidate.
At the Alaska Center For Oral + Facial Surgery (AOFS), We provide a myriad of oral surgery solutions including corrective jaw surgery. Follow along in today’s post and discover more signs that you may need corrective jaw surgery.
Facial And Jaw Abnormalities
We know the chronic pain and discomfort that can come from jaw irregularities, but sometimes what is missed is how the deeply impact how we do life. When you can’t eat certain foods, swallow well, or even have a hard time speaking, it alters many things.
Below are additional factors that impact jaw health.
Mouth Breathing
Though the vernacular on this has changed, mouth breathing is a real concern. What’s the harm? It seems like there wouldn’t be an issue, but chronic mouth breathing can lead to a host of dental issues including an increased risk of cavities and gum disease.
Mouth breathing can be caused by a variety of issues, namely birth abnormalities and malocclusions of the jaws.
Sleep Apnea
There are several types of sleep apnea that cause a variety of concerns including, snoring, sleeplessness, headaches, and night sweats that are all related to the throat muscles and how your facial bones — including your jaws — have developed.
Any of these issues can emerge at birth, as a result of environmental and hereditary concerns, or trauma.
How Jaw Issues Occur
As we’ve mentioned, jaw issues result from a myriad of factors from trauma and injuries to genetics and our environment.
Let’s explore the genetic component a bit further.
It takes about 14 years to develop all of our permanent teeth as we transition from our baby teeth to our adult teeth. And, in this time frame, our face and jaw are developing. As the case with many people, their bites don’t develop properly and abnormalities in the upper and lower jaws occur.
Teeth can break through abnormally as a result of a space shortage and the jaws can be too small, resulting in an over or underbite.
Apart from genetics components, our environment and habits can also play a role in early jaw development. What may impact a child’s jaw and teeth development the most are factors such as thumb sucking, sippy cups and bottles, and prolonged pacifier use.
Other external traumas include playground injuries, car accidents, and accidents in sports activities. Any of these can disrupt development and the intimate balance of the multiple muscle groups in the face and oral cavity.
Is corrective jaw surgery for you?
We’ve covered nine signs that you may need corrective surgery, including difficulty chewing, sleep issues, facial issues, mouth breathing, and receding jaws. Many of these issues carry symptoms of chronic pain and discomfort so if you notice any of these signs, you may be an ideal candidate for corrective jaw surgery.
Corrective Jaw Surgery At The Alaska Center For Oral + Facial Surgery
If you’re a candidate for orthognathic surgery, the oral surgeons at AOFS create a patient-centered treatment plan that you’re involved with every step of the way. Not only do they take a team approach for the best surgical outcomes, but they will also partner with your local orthodontist and dentist during your treatment period for optimal results.
To schedule an oral surgery consultation or to learn more about our corrective jaw surgery treatments, connect with our office today!