Corrective Jaw Surgery / Orthognathic Surgery:
(ortho = orthopedic; gnathic = jaw)

Who Needs Orthognathic Surgery?

Orthognathic surgery is needed when jaws don't meet correctly and/or teeth don't seem to fit with the jaws. This may be a visible abnormality such as the jaw being too far forward or backward, or it may be seen as a misalignment of the teeth. Typically, the 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 jaw joints function in a proper balanced way.

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. While orthodontics alone can correct many bite problems if only the teeth are involved, orthognathic surgery may be required if the jaws also need repositioning. We perform a free consultation and evaluation to assess if jaw surgery may be appropriate.

Difficulty in the following areas should be evaluated:

• Difficulty in chewing, biting or swallowing
• Speech problems
• Chronic jaw or TMJ pain
• Open bite
• Protruding or retrusive jaw
• Breathing problems

Any of these can exist at birth or may be acquired during growth as a result of hereditary or environmental influences or, trauma to the face. Before any treatment begins, a consultation with Dr. Wagner 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 Dr. Wagner will make the decision to proceed with treatment together.   [back to top]

Technology and Orthognathic Surgery

If desired, Dr. Wagner and the orthodontist will use modern computer techniques and three dimensional models to show you exactly how your surgery will be approached. Using comprehensive facial X-rays, we can show you how your bite and facial form will be improved. This helps you understand the surgical process and the extent of the treatment prescribed, and to see the benefits of orthognathic surgery.

If you are a candidate for Corrective Jaw Surgery, we will work closely with your dentist or 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.
There are a number of surgical techniques that can be used to correct upper and lower jaw position concerns. Dr. Wagner is an expert in this area and he is one of only a feworal and maxillo-facial surgeons in Southeastern Wisconsin to use Lacta-Sorb, an absorbable fixation (no-metal), with his jaw surgeries.  [back to top]