- What Is Corrective Jaw Surgery?
- How Is Corrective Jaw Surgery Performed?
- What Are the Benefits of Corrective Jaw Surgery?
- Oral and Facial Surgery of the Shoals Reviews
- Am I A Candidate for Corrective Jaw Surgery?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Restore Your Bite with Corrective Jaw Surgery
- Get In Touch
- Related Procedures
- Recovery
What Is Corrective Jaw Surgery?
Corrective jaw surgery (also known as orthognathic surgery) may be needed when traditional treatments like aligners or braces can't fully address complex issues like bite misalignment, jaw deformities, or severe malocclusion. These conditions can cause functional and aesthetic concerns, such as a protruding chin or misaligned jaw. At Shoals Oral & Facial Surgery, we specialize in orthognathic surgery to correct these issues and restore both form and function. This procedure may involve reshaping the jaw's bone, cartilage, and tissues to achieve optimal alignment. Contact our offices in Sheffield or Florence, AL today to schedule a consultation and explore your options for corrective jaw surgery.
How Is Corrective Jaw Surgery Performed?
Before creating your treatment plan, we'll sit down with you for a comprehensive oral exam, where we'll assess the shape of your jaw and bite alignment. We may take digital x-rays of your mouth to get a clearer view of your jawbone. Corrective jaw surgery is performed at our Sheffield and Florence, AL offices using general anesthesia. To start, your surgeon will make small incisions inside the mouth, allowing access to the jawbone. They will carefully readjust the position of your jaw, using plates, screws, and wires to hold it in place while you heal. If necessary, we may also recommend bone grafting surgery, which uses donor bone tissue to strengthen the jaw and provide more stability.
Recovery after corrective jaw surgery usually takes a few weeks. You will need to stick to liquid meals (like soups or meal replacement drinks) for at least the first week, slowly introducing softer foods as your jaw heals. Most patients can return to light activities after about 2 – 3 weeks, but full recovery may take 6 – 8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the surgery. Our team at Shoals Oral & Facial Surgery is here to support your recovery and provide detailed aftercare instructions to support healing after your orthognathic surgery.
What Are the Benefits of Corrective Jaw Surgery?
If you are struggling with a misaligned bite or complex jaw issues, traditional braces may not be enough. Corrective jaw surgery at Shoals Oral & Facial Surgery offers a solution for these cases, with benefits that include:
- Correcting bite issues and improving chewing function
- Enhancing facial appearance with improved jaw alignment
- Alleviating jaw pain and discomfort caused by misalignment
- Making it easier to maintain oral hygiene and overall dental health
- Improving speech by addressing jaw-related concerns
- Increasing comfort in daily activities such as eating and speaking
Oral and Facial Surgery of the Shoals Reviews
They treated my daughter like their own!! I cannot recommend this office enough!!!
Very pleased with the speed of seeing the Doctor at the appointment. I was also impressed by the friendliness and hospitality of the entire staff.
Wonderful place for oral surgery, very kind and knowledgeable!
Very friendly and professional
I was very pleased with their professionalism. Everyone was knowledgeable about my procedure. I had an excellent result. I was seen at both offices. Dr. Frederick was great, and so were his nurses; I felt very confident in their knowledge and expertise.
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Total Reviews
5
Average Rating
Am I A Candidate for Corrective Jaw Surgery?
You may be a candidate for jaw surgery or orthognathic surgery if your chin is developed improperly or appears disproportionate, or if you are experiencing a misaligned bite, a crooked jaw, facial asymmetry, or other functional concerns. Some of the symptoms that you might experience include problems chewing or biting, difficulty speaking clearly, jaw pain related to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD/TMJ), noticeable protrusion of the jaw, or breathing issues such as sleep apnea. Talk to our team about your symptoms and medical history so they can determine whether you may benefit from corrective jaw surgery to improve both function and overall facial balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should teens wait to get corrective jaw surgery?
In many cases, surgery is typically delayed until jaw growth is complete—usually around age 16 for girls and 18 for boys. Operating too early can affect long-term stability. However, early evaluation is important so orthodontic and surgical planning can begin at the right stage.
Will corrective jaw surgery change the shape of my face?
Generally speaking, yes, but in a positive and balanced way. Because the jaw influences facial proportions, adjusting its position can refine the profile, improve symmetry, and enhance chewing function. Our team uses detailed imaging to plan changes that look natural and appropriate.
Should I have someone drive me to and from my corrective jaw surgery?
Absolutely. Corrective jaw surgery requires anesthesia and sometimes even hospitalization, so you’ll need transportation both to and from the appointment. Recovery starts immediately, and you’ll want someone available for support at home the first day.
How do you prepare for corrective jaw surgery?
Before undergoing corrective jaw surgery, our professionals at Shoals Oral & Facial Surgery will provide specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure. Some general steps may include quitting smoking, avoiding certain medications, and arranging for transportation afterward. Our goal is to ensure you have a smooth and successful surgery.
Will I need to take time off work after corrective jaw surgery?
It is likely that you will need to take time off work after corrective jaw surgery. The amount of time needed for recovery may vary depending on the type and extent of the surgery, as well as your individual healing process. It's important to follow all post-operative instructions and allow yourself enough time to rest and heal properly.
Does corrective jaw surgery hurt?
Corrective jaw surgery may be accompanied by some pain, especially during the first few days after the surgery. However, our staff in Sheffield and Florence, AL, can provide medications to help manage any discomfort. Follow the prescribed dosages and be sure to communicate with your doctor if you experience any severe or prolonged pain.
Restore Your Bite with Corrective Jaw Surgery
Corrective jaw surgery can provide lasting relief and improve both your appearance and function. At Shoals Oral & Facial Surgery, we offer personalized care to help you address bite misalignment, jaw pain, and related concerns. Our oral surgeons in Sheffield and Florence, AL are ready to guide you through the process, ensuring a smooth experience and effective results. Reach out today to learn how corrective jaw surgery can help restore comfort, confidence, and a healthier smile.
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Recovery
Following your operation, you will need to have a responsible adult pick you up and take you home. Dr. McIlwain urges you take approximately 1 – 3 weeks to rest and heal before slowly returning to work or school. Before your treatment begins, Dr. McIlwain will discuss surgical instructions, such as pain medication, diet limitations, and the best way to clean your mouth. It's also advisable to schedule follow-up appointments before your surgery, which will allow Dr. McIlwain to evaluate your recovery. Should you encounter any symptoms of disease, please contact us right away. Your jaw will likely need about three months to fully heal. After this, your orthodontic treatment may be initiated.