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Am I the Right Candidate for Maxillofacial Surgery?
Posted on 9/2/2024 by Dr. Michael Allard
You may be a candidate for corrective jaw surgery if you suffer from an improper bite caused by misaligned jaws. In some instances, the upper and lower jaws could grow at different rates, leading to this issue. Jaw alignment can also be affected by injuries. Usually, orthodontics fix bite-related issues when teeth are misaligned. However, jaw surgery may be necessary when the jaws are also misaligned.
How to Know You Are a Candidate for Jaw Surgery
There are several ways people discover they might need jaw surgery. One of the most common being those that have been involved in severe facial damaging accidents. Besides accidents, there are other factors to look out for, as outlined below.
You are Diagnosed With TMJ Disorder
The temporomandibular joints (TMJ) connect the jaw to the skull. You may have difficulty moving your jaw when these joints do not work correctly. You may also experience your jaw sticking in place or clicking when you talk or yawn or suffer from occasional or chronic jaw pain. These symptoms of TMJ disorder could make you a candidate for jaw surgery.
Unbalanced Facial Appearance
You do not need a specific medical diagnosis to consult an oral surgeon about jaw surgery. Some candidates may have an unbalanced facial appearance due to their jaw development. An experienced oral surgeon can assess your case and recommend the appropriate surgical techniques to achieve the desired aesthetic and, if necessary, functional improvements.
Eating, Chewing, and Swallowing Difficulties
If you experience chewing and swallowing difficulties, chances are you need surgery. Even if only minor surgical intervention is required, jaw surgery may be necessary. See a trusted oral surgeon if these issues have no clear causes.
Surgery is recommended to change your facial appearance or correct jaw orientation. If you have suffered significant facial trauma, feel free to talk to us. You may also just want to improve your looks. Talk to us today by filling out our form or call us to learn more about maxillofacial surgery.
Arrowhead Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 18555 N 79th Ave, Suite A-103, Glendale, AZ 85308-8370 + (623) 738-2564 + arrowheadoralsurgery.com + 10/9/2024 + Related Terms: Dental Implants Glendale AZ +