Orthognathic Surgery

Surgically Correct Bite Problems, Jaw Pain, and More

Orthognathic surgery is a procedure performed for patients whose jaws do not meet correctly, which creates an improper bite and misalignment of the jaws. The orthodontist will need to work with an oral surgeon to correct the bite with orthognathic surgery. While the goal of orthognathic surgery is to correct the functional problem with the jaw, this procedure also results in improved aesthetics and facial proportions.

Dr. Lieblick and Dr. Rehrer have received extensive training in identifying jaw problems and performing life-changing surgery that greatly improves our patients’ quality of life. At Beacon Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons in Gresham, The Dalles, Milwaukie, OR, and Camas, WA, we design a custom treatment plan for every patient.

Benefits of Jaw Surgery

Corrective Jaw Surgery produces lifelong results that enable you to eat and speak without pain and with a properly aligned bite. Additionally, jaw surgery offers these benefits:

• Improved chewing, speech, and respiratory function
• Enhanced facial harmony, balance, and aesthetic appearance
• Correct bite problems and misalignment of the dental arches

The oral surgeons and staff at Beacon Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons are uniquely trained and qualified at performing corrective jaw surgery and thoroughly enjoy seeing the positive transformations that result from orthognathic treatment. Patients will undergo general anesthesia for this procedure, though we offer many anesthesia and sedation options for any other type of surgical procedure.

Do I Need Corrective Jaw Surgery?

Misaligned jaws can cause a number of problems inside the mouth and to the facial structure, including:

• The inability to properly chew and grind food
• Digestive problems
• Dental crowding
• Poor oral hygiene
• Increased risk of dental caries and periodontal disease
• Shorter tooth lifespan
• Snoring and sleep apnea
• The inability to fully close the lips
• Heavy breathing
• Impaired speech function
• Poor facial aesthetics

Many of these problems can have serious consequences to the overall health of the mouth and face. Therefore, it is very important to ensure that irregularities of the jaw are diagnosed and treated early to temper the risks of this condition. If you think that you may be a candidate or your orthodontist has recommended corrective jaw surgery, we encourage you to contact our office for an initial consultation. Dr. Lieblick and Dr. Rehrer have undergone extensive surgical training that makes them uniquely qualified to examine and treat oral and facial irregularities.

The Orthognathic Surgery Process

When you choose to undergo orthognathic surgery, your orthodontist will prepare your teeth with braces before the procedure. Beforehand, you will meet with Dr. Lieblick or Dr. Rehrer, who will examine your jaws and take detailed 3D scans of your facial structures. Patients undergo general anesthesia during this procedure, which allows them to sleep throughout the surgery.

During surgery, your oral surgeon will reposition the jaws and secure them in place. After surgery but before removing your braces, your orthodontist will make any small, fine corrections needed to finish correcting the bite.

Jaw surgery may be right for you if your jaw misalignment cannot be corrected with orthodontics or other nonsurgical treatments. Contact one of our offices in Gresham, OR, Camas, WA, Milwaukie, OR, or The Dalles, OR, if you would like to learn more about how orthognathic surgery can benefit you.