Jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery, is performed to address skeletal and dental irregularities that cause misalignment of the jaws and teeth. While some of these issues can be adequately treated with orthodontic care alone, in many cases, better and more permanent results can be obtained with jaw surgery. Singapore patients who are most likely to require surgery are those for whom misaligned jaws have caused moderate to severe functional and aesthetic problems. If orthognathic surgery has been suggested for you as a solution to malocclusion, or bite problems, knowing the pros and cons of jaw surgery can help you decide if it’s the best option for you.
Jaw Surgery Singapore: The Pros
Orthognathic surgery can correct functional and appearance issues related to a moderate to severe overbite, underbite, open bite or crossbite caused by improperly positioned jaws or uneven jaw growth, including:
- Difficulty biting, chewing or swallowing
- Speech problems, such as lisping or slurring
- Chronic jaw pain
- Excessive tooth wear
- Sleep apnea and other breathing difficulties
- Inability to close the mouth naturally
- Receding chin
- Protruding upper or lower jaw
- Unbalanced facial appearance
By correcting functional issues with jaw surgery, Singapore oral surgeons and orthodontic specialists can spare patients the day-to-day problems these conditions cause, as well as their long-term consequences on dental and overall health. Additionally, addressing the aesthetic issues caused by these conditions can improve a patient’s quality-of-life, giving them renewed self-esteem and self-confidence.
Jaw Surgery Singapore: The Cons
Jaw surgery, like any surgical procedure, has its risks and drawbacks. Orthognathic surgery will require a fairly large time commitment, since orthodontic work typically must be done before the procedure and, in some cases, afterwards, a process that can take anywhere from several months to several years. There will be some pain and discomfort during surgery and after, and patients can expect facial swelling that may take several weeks to completely subside. Surgery generally requires a hospital stay of a day or two, and you’ll need to allow yourself plenty of recovery time. Initial healing generally takes about 6 weeks, and complete recovery can take up to 90 days. You’ll be on a soft-food diet for several weeks after surgery, and in some cases, the jaws may be wired shut for a short period. As with any surgery, there is some risk of complications, including numbness or tingling in one or both lips, infection, excessive bleeding or adverse reactions to anesthesia.
For patients with moderate to severe jaw problems, the pros often outweigh the cons. With jaw surgery, Singapore patients who have lived with the difficulties and embarrassment that accompany severely misaligned jaws and teeth often find the experience life changing, well worth the time and effort spent on treatment. Of course, jaw surgery isn’t for everyone, and deciding whether it is the best option for you is best done with the help of your Singapore oral surgeon and orthodontic specialist, professionals who will be familiar with your individual needs and circumstances.
