Orthognathic Surgery
Correct Bite Issues, Jaw Dysfunction, and More
The alignment of your jaw plays a critical role in the way that you eat, speak, look, and even breathe. When the alignment of your jaw is off due to bone structure issues, TMJ disorders, orthodontic issues, sleep apnea, and other conditions, corrective jaw surgery can help. This treatment is also called orthognathic surgery and may be offered when nonsurgical treatments fail to correct the problem and improve the function of the bite. At Fresno Oral Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implant Center, we offer orthognathic surgery at our offices in Fresno, Clovis, Reedley, Madera, and Visalia, CA.
Do I Need Jaw Surgery?
The primary goal of orthognathic surgery is to correct or improve the function of the bite. It can be used to treat many different conditions. If you have one or more of the following symptoms or conditions, you may be a candidate for orthognathic surgery:
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing food
- Breathing problems
- Excessive wear on the teeth
- A severe receding or protruding chin
- Difficulty closing your mouth or teeth fully
- Chronic jaw pain
- Difficulty opening your mouth all the way
If you experience any of the above symptoms or conditions, you should see a dental professional. They will be able to let you know if nonsurgical treatments, such as a night guard or braces, are an option for you or if surgery is the right solution to correct the problem.
Our doctors are on staff at local hospitals and can perform surgery in a hospital setting for patients who require complex procedures or who have certain medical conditions. Watch the video to learn more!
Orthognathic Surgery Procedure
Correcting the function of the bite involves many steps that span over several months. The treatment process includes braces, surgery, and a recovery period. The first step is often orthodontic treatment with braces, which realign your teeth and prepare them for your upcoming surgical procedure. This step, which is overseen by your orthodontist, can take several months to complete. Once your oral surgeon and orthodontist have determined that the alignment of your teeth are satisfactory, you will be ready for your jaw surgery.
Consultation
During your first visit, we will take digital 3D scans of your jaws and mouth to assess the location of your facial structures and how to improve them. We can also use this technology to monitor your jaws as they heal throughout treatment. Your oral surgeon will evaluate your situation and inform you of the most appropriate course of treatment specific to your needs and goals. You will also be given pre- and post-operative instructions during this time, which will help prepare you for your upcoming surgical procedure. Your surgery date may also be determined at this time.
Surgery
Every detail of your surgery will be determined and communicated to you well in advance of your surgery date so you can feel informed and at ease about your procedure. To prepare you for surgery, your oral surgeon or anesthesiologist will administer anesthesia. General anesthesia is common for most jaw surgeries. Once you are unconscious, you will not feel any pain or remember the surgery. Your surgeon will separate the portion of the jaw that needs to be realigned and secure it in place using tiny screws, wires, or plates. Advances in orthognathic surgery have virtually eliminated the need for jaws to be wired shut. After your procedure has been completed, you will rest while your anesthesia wears off and recover until you are ready to be driven home by your designated driver.
Recovery
It takes several weeks for bones to heal. You will likely experience swelling for the first week, with increased improvement and comfort with each passing week. Taking care of your jaw also means resting it, which includes minimal chewing. Therefore, a soft food diet is necessary while you heal. You will be provided with post-operative instructions and a prescription for any medications you may need while you are in recovery.
Orthognathic Surgery in Fresno, Clovis, Reedley, Madera, and Visalia
If you or a loved one is experiencing jaw pain and misalignment of the jaw and need orthognathic surgery, Fresno Oral Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implant Center can help. Our experienced oral surgeons will evaluate and treat you based on your specific condition. To learn more about jaw surgery, contact one of our offices, and one of our staff members will be happy to assist you.
Types of Anesthesia
Our surgeons offer many options for anesthesia and sedation to ensure your comfort during treatment.
Hear From Orthognathic Surgery Patients
These patients can tell you about the firsthand experience undergoing orthognathic surgery at our office.
Reviews From Our Orthognathic Surgery Patients
"As a mother, when we came in here, we had lots of questions, and they answered every single one of those. They put us at ease. The first time we met Dr. Barnhart, I was very impressed. Any concern or question, no matter how big or small, it never felt irrelevant. Our daughter was in very good hands here. Before the surgery, she had trouble eating certain foods, she had trouble pronouncing certain letters, and after the surgery, everything has improved a hundred percent. I think it was just hands-down the best experience that she could have had. And as parents, we were very, very happy to bring her here. The sky is truly the limit for her now. And it is all thanks to Fresno Oral Surgery."
"My overall experience here was just great. The doctors and the staff, they went over everything in really great detail and got me very excited for the upcoming procedure. Dr. Barnhart is one of the nicest people I’ve ever met and would always, even before my surgery, say, “Oh your smile is so beautiful.” She’s like, “It’s going to be even more beautiful after your surgery.” Dr. Barnhart and the other doctors worked together to give me an amazing smile. After the surgery I have felt a lot more confident in myself. This surgery has really opened up a lot of doors to things that I wasn’t able to do before. I feel a lot more joyful, and this was truly a life-changing experience that I got to go through. If you live in Madera Acres or Salma come to Fresno Oral Surgery. "
"My jaw was out of alignment, so my orthodontist ultimately referred me to Dr. Chien’s office. All of the staff here was very kind. They were very nurturing as well, which made it very easy to trust them. Dr. Chien is so kind. He always made sure to relate to me somehow. He always liked to make sure that I personally understood what was going on. My surgery went easy because of Dr. Chien’s skill as a surgeon. I had a great experience, and I would highly recommend Fresno Oral Surgery."
Providing Superior Patient Experiences and Outcomes
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