Orthognathic surgery allows you to take on craniofacial abnormalities. Not only can this surgery provide aesthetic and cosmetic perks, but it can also actually give patients a better quality of life. Dr. Linda Hallman of FitBite Orthodontics discusses orthognathic surgery in Chevy Chase, MD, and how it can benefit you.
What is Orthognathic Surgery?
This type of surgery is a set of unique procedures that are specifically designed to correct abnormalities in both the jaw and face. Corrective jaw surgery can be performed on both children and adults, for a wide variety of reasons. It’s necessary for problems that can’t be corrected with orthodontics on their own.
There are various conditions that may prompt the need for orthognathic surgery. A cleft palate or genetic deformity may need to be corrected for both cosmetic needs and to assist in helping them have a normal quality of life. Bite problems and severe malocclusion may not always be able to be corrected with braces or orthodontic appliances. In serious cases, surgery is recommended to treat these issues.
It isn’t only for jawbone and palate problems, however. Surgery may also need to be used to address issues with obstructive sleep apnea. Soft tissue and airway problems are understood to be the underlying cause of these issues. In the event that an oral appliance can’t fix the problem, surgery can improve the ability to breathe normally during sleep.
What are the Benefits of Orthognathic Surgery?
Whether your problems are mild or severe, Dr. Hallman works with the best oral and maxillofacial surgeons in the Washington DC area. We not only want to make sure you have confidence in your face and smile. Not only that, but fixing these conditions can help your oral health and overall wellness. We make sure to tailor treatment to every one of our individual patients and their needs.
Issues with sleep apnea can impact the way you’re breathing throughout the night. Certain deformities can even make it hard to breathe during the day. Surgery can give you the ability to breathe normally, during both the night and day.
Facial abnormalities can impact your speech, leaving you with an impediment or lisp when you talk. When you get surgery, you can restore your normal level of speech, or have speech that’s significantly improved. It’s a wonderful thing to be able to say everything that you feel and ensure that people can understand you. It gives you more confidence in talking in public and making your voice heard.
Lastly, jaw and facial problems can affect the way you eat. Your chewing may not be as functional as it should be, meaning you struggle and take longer to eat than people with a normal jaw. Chewing may even be uncomfortable for you to do. Surgery allows you to eat comfortably and enjoy functional chewing.
Getting Orthognathic Surgery in Chevy Chase, Maryland
Dr. Hallman has had advanced training in the realm of craniofacial issues, as well as dentistry and the musculoskeletal system. Her expertise gives her a unique skill in problems with the jaw and its development. If you’re having orthodontic trouble, call us or schedule an appointment online.
