Orthognathic surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery, is more than just cosmetic; it addresses severe functional issues that can significantly impact everyday life. In Olson Orthodontics of Verrado/Buckeye and Litchfield Park, Dr. Olson provides customized treatment plans and professional assessments. This operation can provide long-term relief, enhance body function, and restore confidence to patients who require care from trusted individuals. Here are five common signs that may indicate you need corrective jaw surgery.
1. Difficulty Chewing or Biting Food
A problem with eating is one of the most frequent symptoms of jaw misalignment. Movement of food to either side of the mouth or eating foods without chewing may be due to your upper or lower jaw not fitting together correctly. Unbalanced bites (such as overbites, underbites, or crossbites) can cause additional pressure on teeth and jaw structures, which can grind your enamel and make food intake unenjoyable. The orthognathic surgery Buckeye patients undergo helps reposition the jaw so that jaw function is correct and everyday activities, such as eating, are natural.
2. Chronic Jaw Pain or TMJ Discomfort
The discomfort periodically experienced in the jaw may indicate a problem with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Misalignment may cause clicking, popping, locking, or overall stiffness, as your jaw joints take on excessive strain. It can cause muscle fatigue, tension headaches, and long-term pain. When braces and splints do not resolve the issue, many patients attend a family orthodontist at Litchfield Park Center to find a long-term solution that relieves the problem.
3. Breathing and Sleep Difficulties with Orthognathic Surgery Buckeye Options
The position of your jaw directly impacts the airway. Jaw adjustment may be causing or worsening obstructive sleep apnea if you frequently snore, pause breathing during the night, or wake up feeling tired despite having had a whole night's sleep. In these instances, surgical correction of the jaw position can make a significant difference in reducing airflow loss and alleviating breathing issues at night. Dr. Olson, an orthodontist, is trained to assess the airway's functional ability and suggest surgical intervention when needed to improve general health.
4. Facial Imbalance or Appearance Concerns
Your face may look unbalanced when you have a misaligned jaw. It can manifest in chin recession, overbite, and a long lower face. Such aesthetic issues may impact self-esteem and lead to social anxiety. If orthodontic treatment is not sufficient to fix the problem, your Dr. Olson may advise surgery as an option that can restore functionality and enhance facial symmetry and confidence.
5. Difficulty Speaking Clearly
Clear speech relies on the coordinated interaction between the tongue, teeth, and jaw. The misalignment disrupts the articulation process, causing difficulties in pronouncing particular sounds and impairing speech clarity. Adults and children can have problems with this. A trusted family orthodontist, Litchfield Park residents rely on examining any issues related to speech, and can advise whether surgery would enhance the functionality.
Get Expert Help from Olson Orthodontics
Our team can assist you in determining whether orthognathic surgery, which Buckeye patients may benefit from, is the right approach to proceed. If these symptoms seem familiar, it might be time to book an appointment. Olson Orthodontics offers expert evaluations and treatments in Verrado/Buckeye and Litchfield Park, delivering personalized care and advanced solutions for families.