Jaw Surgery
What Is Jaw Surgery?
The jaws are a fundamental component of a stunning and functional smile. Sometimes, though, the growth of the lower and upper jaws can occur out of sync, causing a mismatch in size, shape, or alignment. This discrepancy can impair the function and overall appearance of your teeth and may require orthognathic surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery.
Orthodontists and Orthognathic Surgeons Work Together to Enhance Your Smile
Orthodontist Stuart Scott and our highly trained team of specialists are passionate about creating smiles that are not only beautiful, but also healthy and functional. We work together with your primary dentist to diagnose your condition and connect you with a skilled maxillofacial surgeon to improve your smile and long-term oral health.
The oral surgeon we refer you to will perform your corrective jaw surgery. You can then return to our Mitchellville, MD, practice where Dr. Scott can complete your treatment by providing orthodontics.
Let Us Coordinate Your Care With an Oral Surgeon
While Dr. Scott excels at providing orthodontic treatment, he will have to refer you to an experienced oral surgeon if you require jaw surgery. This surgery can address a variety of disorders, alleviate uncomfortable symptoms, and create a healthy foundation for successful orthodontic treatment.
Take the first step toward a straighter smile and balanced bite. Contact one of our offices serving Mitchellville, MD, today:
(301) 589-8191
We Prioritize Patient Experience "Solid, amazing, & helpful ortho practice!"
Trinity Hawkins
2022
Every time I come into Scott Orthodontics I am welcomed with open arms. Every single person who works there is extremely polite and respectful! Dr. Scott is a real professional & is great at what he does. Thank you Scott Orthodontics family for my new smile :)
View on GoogleJ. Teachey
2022
A really solid, amazing & helpful ortho practice! The medical team & Dr. Scott are really cordial & amazing. Top notch technology, patient support & they are extremely flexible across both locations. PS: They always play the best Pixar movies in the Waiting Room too!
View on GoogleWhy You Might Need Orthognathic Surgery
Dental & Facial Malformation
Open bites, underbites, overbites, and receding jaws are common malformations addressed in oral surgery. Depending on your case, a maxillofacial surgeon can modify the position of the bone to properly align the jaw and improve your facial structure.
TMJ Disorder
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jawbone to your skull and can suffer structural damage, improper positioning, excessive strain, and excessive friction. TMJ disorder surgery is performed to help relieve the painful symptoms caused by the condition.
Sleep Apnea
Maxillofacial surgery can be used to treat obstructive sleep apnea. While your dentist will first attempt a nonsurgical intervention, some patients will need more extensive treatment. The procedure typically involves moving the upper and lower jaws forward to make space for the throat so you can breathe properly when you sleep.
When to Receive Orthognathic Surgery
If your child's jaws are developing abnormally, you may want to take action as soon as possible. However, your child can't undergo orthognathic surgery until they've finished developing. This is 14-16 years old for girls and 17-21 years old for boys.
If you're an adult who is done growing, and you have one of the conditions that are described above, you may be a candidate for corrective jaw surgery. Contact our practice serving Mitchellville, MD, to see if you qualify for treatment.
What Can Be Modified During Orthognathic Surgery?
Jaw surgery can be performed on the upper jaw, lower jaw, or chin.
Upper Jaw
A protruding upper jaw, crossbite, and more can be corrected with upper jaw surgery. During this oral procedure, your surgeon will move the jaw and upper teeth forward until they are in better alignment with the lower teeth and jaw.
Lower Jaw
A receding or protruding lower jaw can be corrected with lower jaw surgery. During this oral surgery, the jawbone is divided behind the molars, and the jaw is moved forward or backward into its new position.
Chin
A small chin often accompanies an underdeveloped or receded lower jaw. In this procedure, a portion of the chin is removed and moved forward. Your oral surgeon may be able to alter your chin and perform corrective jaw surgery in the same procedure.
The Process of Receiving Corrective Jaw Surgery
Orthodontist Stuart A. Scott and his team are excited to welcome you into our family of happy patients, and we hope to make a positive difference in your life.
We're Here When You Need Us Serving Mitchellville, Maryland, and Beyond
It's important to keep in mind that jaw surgery isn't just a single event – it's a process that can take three years to complete. Though we refer out for the surgery itself, we are here for you to prepare your mouth with orthodontics and finalize your results after your surgery. We look forward to helping you achieve a beautiful smile and improved oral health.
Contact our Mitchellville or Silver Spring, MD, office to see if you could benefit from this surgery:
(301) 589-8191
"The service I received today at Scott Orthodontics was excellent. The staff members were very professional, engaging and patient. They made me feel welcome the moment I entered the door. Dr. Scott was very engaging, has a great personality and took the time to ensure all of my questions were addressed. Great Experience!" Olivia Baker
Caring for Yourself After Oral Surgery in Maryland
As you heal, you should follow some fundamental steps, including:
You will be placed on a liquid diet for about four to six weeks. During this time, you can eat and drink things like soups, protein drinks, milk, yogurt, mashed potatoes, ice cream, pudding, and pureed foods.
Incisions are typically made inside your mouth, meaning you won't have facial scarring; however, some instances may require small incisions outside the mouth. You can minimize scarring by keeping your incisions clean, avoiding touching the area, and using scar ointment.
Nicotine can inhibit the body's ability to heal. We recommend that you avoid using nicotine products long before your surgery and continue avoiding them for long after. Ideally, we recommend quitting altogether.
Wearing Your Retainer to Maintain Your Results
Once you've undergone surgery and finished orthodontic treatment, you will be provided with a retainer to keep your teeth in their newly aligned positions. Your orthodontist will instruct you on how often you will have to wear your retainer. This could be for several hours a day or every night indefinitely. We offer a variety of comfortable retainer types to keep your teeth in alignment. Dr. Scott will find one that works for you.
How Much Does Jaw Surgery Cost?
Jaw surgery coordinated by our dental offices in Silver Spring and Mitchellville, MD, typically costs patients $6,500-$7,500, with an added fee for the surgical procedure. This procedure can improve your oral and overall health, elevate your confidence, and prevent the need for expensive dental care later in life. We can work directly with your insurance provider for maximum coverage.
Let Us Make You Feel Comfortable "Dr. Scott is knowledgeable and experienced."
Brittany Allen
2022
The staff was very sweet and welcoming. It didn’t take long to be seen. Prior to getting my braces, the staff was available to answer any questions I had, specifically about the cost. Dr. Scott is knowledgeable and experienced. I loved my visits (consultation and first day of braces).
View on GoogleJames Melcher
2022
I welcome the professionalism and quality of work whenever I visit Scott Orthodontist. Dr. Scott is a leader who keeps everyone relaxed. He oversees the work of his team for quality assurance, and I appreciate this. I would strongly recommend this business to everyone who can benefit fro the maintenance and quality of care administered by this staff. You won’t be disappointed.
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