Many people do not realize that jaw surgery is a component of oral surgery. Jaw surgery has the ability to improve an assortment of facial and oral problems. For instance, it can help address bite alignment issues so that it is easier to speak, chew, and eat while also reducing discomfort and pain that is associated with the following three conditions.
Temporomandibular Disorder (TMJ)
TMJ disorder tends to cause speaking and chewing problems that often result in the stiffness and pain of the jaw. If the symptoms are on the mild side, conservative treatments are typically recommended. However, if these conservative treatments do not work or if the individual is experiencing significant discomfort or pain, then surgery is generally the course of recommended treatment. Some common surgical procedures that are recommended are arthroscopy and arthrocentesis. Arthroscopy refers to the removal of damaged tissue from the joint of the jaw so that movement can be improved, while arthrocentesis consists of the insertion of a small needle for the irrigation of the joint.
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a medical condition that causes individuals to stop breathing multiple times throughout the night, and it is generally the result of the closure of their airway. Most people will opt for the use of a special CPAP machine that will force air into their lungs and prevent the cessation of breathing before moving onto more severe treatment options. When the CPAP method and any other treatment methods fail, surgery can be an option. One type of surgery that can be used is jaw advancement surgery, which will help to open up the airway so that breathing is easier.
Cleft Lip and Palate
Cleft lips and palates are deformities of the face that occur at the time of birth. For some individuals, a shorter upper jaw accompanies the cleft. As a result, the individual also has an underbite. Jaw surgery can correct malformations so that the individual's appearance is improved and make it easier to eat. In addition to upper jaw surgery, surgery can be performed on the lower jaw to push it backward so that the bite can be properly aligned.
If you have any one of three aforementioned conditions and think that jaw surgery may be something that can help you eliminate the pain and discomfort that you have been experiencing for some time, consider talking to your dentist or an oral surgeon in your area to get more information about how oral surgery can help you.
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