Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery

Orthognathic surgery, more commonly known as jaw surgery, involves surgically correcting jaw irregularities to improve the way the jaw functions. Jaw surgery can improve facial aesthetics, alleviate chronic facial pain caused by TMJ disorders, treat obstructive sleep apnea, and improve the ability to eat, speak, and breathe.

Dr. Larson is a dual-degree surgeon who performs corrective jaw surgery in Norton Shores, MI. As an oral surgeon and physician, he diagnoses and manages oral health conditions with great skill and precision while ensuring the health and safety of his patients. To learn more about orthognathic surgery, contact Breakwater Oral Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implants to schedule a consultation.

Do I Need Orthognathic Surgery?

Jaw surgery can manage a variety of conditions that affect jaw alignment. If you experience any of the following symptoms, we encourage you to contact our practice for an evaluation. These symptoms may be present at birth or acquired through facial trauma, genetics, or environmental influences.

• Difficulty biting, chewing, or swallowing
• Speech problems
• Birth defects
• Facial injury
• Chronic jaw pain or a TMJ disorder
• Facial imbalance (this can include a small chin, underbite, overbite, or crossbite)
• Open bite (when the molars touch but the front teeth do not touch)
• Protruding jaw
• Breathing problems, such as obstructive sleep apnea

Advanced 3D Imaging Technology & Jaw Surgery

At Breakwater Oral Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implants, we use the latest 3D imaging technology. With detailed three-dimensional scans of the head, neck, mouth, and face, Dr. Larson can detect hidden issues, design complex individualized treatment plans, and perform surgery with great precision. During your first visit, we will take 3D scans and can use computer imaging software to show you how your bite will improve after jaw surgery.

Orthognathic surgery is a joint effort between your oral surgeon, who performs the surgical procedure, and your orthodontist, who prepares your teeth before surgery and manages your bite and teeth after surgery with orthodontics. Advanced imaging technology allows us to share files quickly with other members of your care team and collaborate more efficiently, resulting in a seamless patient experience with optimal results.

The Jaw Surgery Procedure

Prior to undergoing jaw surgery, your orthodontist will prepare your mouth and teeth for surgery using braces. You will continue wearing braces during jaw surgery and continue wearing them for up to one year after the procedure.

Jaw surgery is performed in a hospital and generally takes several hours to complete. You will be under general anesthesia, which allows you to rest in an unconscious state. With general anesthesia, you will be unaware of the procedure and will not feel any pain.

During the procedure, your oral surgeon will make cuts in the jaw bone as necessary, reposition the jaws, and secure them in place using plates, screws, or wires. Dr. Larson will make incisions inside your mouth whenever possible, resulting in little to no visible scarring. You can expect to remain in the hospital for several days after your procedure.

We want you to have a smooth and speedy recovery following oral surgery and will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions to follow. If you have questions at any point throughout your treatment, please contact our office and a member of our staff will assist you.

Jaw Surgery in Norton Shores, MI

By correcting the alignment of your jaws and teeth, you can achieve a more balanced facial appearance and benefit from improved breathing, speaking, eating, and sleeping. Contact our oral surgery practice in Norton Shores, MI, for a consultation with Dr. Larson and to see how orthognathic surgery can change your life.