Corrective Jaw Surgery in Rancho Bernardo, CA
Corrective jaw surgery (also called orthognathic surgery) is a procedure used to correct problems involving the jawbones and bite alignment. At RB Oral and Facial Surgery, our surgeons use advanced planning technology and precise surgical techniques to improve both oral function and facial balance for patients throughout Rancho Bernardo, Poway, Escondido, Del Mar, Encinitas, and surrounding San Diego communities.
Whether you have jaw pain, trouble chewing, sleep breathing issues, or facial asymmetry, corrective jaw surgery can help. It can restore comfort, function, and confidence.
What is Corrective Jaw Surgery?
Corrective jaw surgery is a procedure that repositions the upper and lower jaws, or both, to improve how the teeth and jaws fit together. This surgery is commonly recommended when orthodontic treatment alone cannot fully correct jaw alignment problems.
Jaw misalignment may affect:
- Chewing and speaking
- Breathing during sleep
- Facial appearance and symmetry
- Jaw joint comfort
- Long-term oral health
Orthognathic surgery is carefully planned using digital imaging and coordinated treatment between your oral surgeon and orthodontist.
Signs You May Need Corrective Jaw Surgery
Many patients live with jaw problems for years before seeking treatment. You may be a candidate for corrective jaw surgery if you experience:
- Chronic jaw pain or TMJ discomfort
- Difficulty chewing certain foods
- An open bite or severe overbite
- Problems speaking clearly
- Facial imbalance or asymmetry
- Sleep apnea related to jaw structure
- Excessive tooth wear
- Difficulty closing your lips comfortably
- Breathing difficulties
During your consultation, our surgeons will check your bite, facial structure, jaw joints, and airway. They will decide if surgery is right for you.
Conditions Corrective Jaw Surgery Can Treat
Corrective jaw surgery is often used to treat both functional and cosmetic concerns. Common conditions include:
Overbite and Underbite
A severe overbite or underbite can affect chewing, speech, and facial appearance. Surgery repositions the jaw to create a healthier bite relationship.
Open Bite
An open bite occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not properly touch when the mouth is closed. This can interfere with eating and speaking.
Facial Asymmetry
Uneven jaw growth may cause one side of the face to appear different from the other. Jaw surgery can improve facial balance and symmetry.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Some patients have airway obstruction caused by jaw position. Moving the jaws forward may improve airflow and reduce sleep apnea symptoms.
The Corrective Jaw Surgery Process
Corrective jaw surgery is a highly personalized procedure. Treatment typically occurs in several phases.
Consulting & Digital Planning
Your first visit includes:
- Comprehensive examination
- 3D imaging and digital scans
- Bite analysis
- Discussion of goals and symptoms
- Review of treatment options
Advanced imaging technology allows our surgeons to precisely map your surgical plan before the procedure.
Orthodontic Preparation
Most patients wear braces or clear aligners before surgery. This helps align the teeth after the jaws are repositioned.
Surgical Procedure
Corrective jaw surgery is performed under anesthesia in a hospital or surgical setting. Depending on your condition, surgery may involve:
- Upper jaw surgery
- Lower jaw surgery
- Chin surgery
- Combined jaw procedures
Surgeons perform the procedure using carefully planned techniques that improve both function and appearance.
Recovery and Healing
Most patients require several weeks of initial healing, although complete recovery takes longer. During recovery, patients typically experience:
- Swelling and mild discomfort
- Temporary dietary restrictions
- Gradual improvement in speech and chewing
- Follow-up appointments for monitoring
Our team provides detailed post-operative instructions and ongoing support throughout recovery.
Benefits of Corrective Jaw Surgery
Corrective jaw surgery can provide life-changing improvements for many patients.
Benefits may include:
- Improved bite alignment
- Easier chewing and speaking
- Reduced jaw pain
- Better facial balance
- Improved breathing and sleep quality
- Long-term oral health support
- Increased confidence
Many patients report significant improvements in both daily comfort and quality of life after treatment.
Why Choose RB Oral and Facial Surgery?
At RB Oral and Facial Surgery, patients get care from a team of skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeons. The team works together and has extensive surgical experience. Our practice was founded by surgeons who served together, managing complex oral and facial surgery cases in Okinawa, Japan.
Patients choose our practice because we provide:
- Advanced 3D surgical planning
- Comprehensive sedation options
- Personalized treatment plans
- Collaborative surgical expertise
- Modern technology focused on safety and precision
Our surgeons are board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons with extensive training in corrective jaw surgery and facial reconstruction procedures.
We are committed to delivering patient-centered care with a strong focus on comfort, safety, and long-term results.
Schedule a Corrective Jaw Surgery Consultation
If jaw pain, bite problems, or facial imbalance are affecting your daily life, corrective jaw surgery may help restore proper function and comfort. RB Oral and Facial Surgery proudly serves patients throughout Rancho Bernardo, Poway, Escondido, Del Mar, Encinitas, and nearby San Diego communities with advanced oral and maxillofacial surgical care.
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn whether corrective jaw surgery is right for you.
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Frequently Asked Question
Is corrective jaw surgery painful?
Patients are under anesthesia during surgery. Some swelling and discomfort are expected during recovery, but pain is typically manageable with prescribed medication and post-operative care instructions.
How long does recovery take?
Initial healing usually takes several weeks, while complete healing may take several months. Recovery time varies depending on the complexity of the procedure.
Will I need braces before surgery?
Most patients require orthodontic treatment before and after surgery to properly align the teeth and jaws.
Does insurance cover corrective jaw surgery?
In many cases, medically necessary corrective jaw surgery may qualify for insurance coverage. Our office can help review your benefits and discuss financing options.
Can corrective jaw surgery improve facial appearance?
Yes. Because the jaws play a major role in facial structure, surgery often improves facial balance and symmetry while also correcting functional issues.