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Procedures
- Dental Implants
- Bone Grafting
- Wisdom Teeth
- Impacted Canines
- Facial Trauma
- Jaw Surgery
- Oral Pathology
- TMJ Disorder
- Sleep Apnea
- Cleft Lip & Palate
- Platelet Rich Plasma
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We monitor our appointment requests several times a day and will usually reply within one business day during open hours.
Orthognathic Surgery
Orthognathic surgery is needed when the jaws don't meet correctly and/or the teeth don't seem to fit with the jaws. Teeth are straightened with orthodontics and corrective jaw surgery repositions misaligned jaws. This not only improves facial appearance, but also ensures that teeth meet correctly and the jaws function properly. It is functional surgery, not cosmetic surgery as many insurance companies try to assert.
Who Needs Orthognathic Surgery?
People who can benefit from orthognathic surgery include those with an improper bite or jaws that are positioned incorrectly. Jaw growth is a gradual process and in some instances, the upper and lower jaws may grow at different rates. The result can be a host of problems that can affect chewing function, speech, long-term oral health and appearance. Injury to the jaw and birth defects can also affect jaw alignment. Orthodontics alone can correct bite problems when only the teeth are involved. Orthognathic surgery may be required to correct jaw abnormalities so that the teeth can be positioned correctly to provide a functional bite.
Difficulty in the following areas should be evaluated:
- difficulty in chewing, biting or swallowing
- speech problems
- chronic jaw or TMJ pain
- open bite
- protruding jaw
- breathing problems
Any of these symptoms can exist at birth, be acquired after birth as a result of hereditary or environmental influences or as a result of trauma to the face. Before any treatment begins, a consultation will be held to perform a complete examination with x-rays. During the pre-treatment consultation process, feel free to ask any questions that you have regarding your treatment. When you are fully informed about the aspects of your care, you and your dental team will make the decision to proceed with treatment together.
Orthognathic (Jaw Correction) Surgery
Dr. Anderson uses three-dimensional models to show you exactly how your surgery will be approached. Using comprehensive facial X-rays and model surgery, we can show you how your bite will be improved and even give you an idea of how you'll look after surgery. This helps you understand the surgical process and the extent of the treatment prescribed. Our goal is to help you understand the benefits of orthognathic surgery.
If you are a candidate for Corrective Jaw Surgery, Dr. Anderson will work closely with your dentist and orthodontist during your treatment. The actual surgery can move your teeth and jaws into a new position that results in a more attractive, functional and healthy dental-facial relationship. These surgeries are performed in the hospital under general anesthesia, and usually require only a one day stay in the hospital.
Atlanta Office:
4721 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Ste 301
Atlanta, GA 30338-6000
770-396-8860 O 770-395-6546 FAX
