Oral jaw surgery can be an intimidating process. Whether due to genetics, trauma, or simply growing older, many people find themselves with a condition where the jaw is smaller than normal and cannot properly support teeth. 

While this may not always be a major aesthetic issue, it can cause serious issues. The impact on speech and function of the mouth is obvious, but there are other consequences that may not be as immediately noticeable. 

We’ll go over why corrective jaw surgery is necessary for some, what it involves, and tips for successful recovery.  

Reasons Why People Get Corrective Jaw Surgery

The main reason people get corrective jaw surgery is to correct a condition known as an underbite. 

An underbite occurs when the top and bottom teeth don’t meet in the middle of the mouth when the patient bites down. As a result, the front teeth of the patient’s lower jaw are pushed toward the inside of their mouth while the back teeth are pushed toward the outside of the mouth. 

When left untreated, an underbite can cause many issues. It can cause the teeth to grind against each other, shifting them out of position and making them more likely to break or chip. It can also cause excessive wear to the teeth, which can cause tooth decay or infection. 

An underbite can also affect the patient’s ability to speak clearly and should be treated as soon as possible to avoid serious problems.

How To Prepare for Jaw Surgery

If you’ve been diagnosed with an underbite, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible to avoid long-term issues. 

Generally, the longer an underbite is left untreated, the more serious the problems will be, and the less likely treatment will be successful. Because the jaw is such a complex joint, treatment options vary greatly depending on the severity of the underbite. 

In some cases, orthodontic treatment will be sufficient and could be completed in as little as a year. However, in more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.  

It’s important to prepare for surgery by eating healthy and living a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating foods that promote strong bones and muscles, exercising regularly, and staying hydrated.

Tips for Successful Recovery After Jaw Surgery

The first thing to remember about your recovery is that it will be different for everyone. There are a lot of factors that play into how quickly you’ll recover from surgery and how successful your treatment will be. That being said, there are some things you can do to make your recovery as easy as possible. 

Make sure to rest as much as you can. Your body has just gone through a serious procedure, and it needs time to recover. Avoid smoking and drinking as much as possible because these activities can slow your recovery. They can also lead to serious complications. Keep your teeth clean during and after your procedure to reduce your risk of infection.

Why Invisalign Is a Good Choice After Surgery

As we discussed above, jaw surgery with Invisalign can be severe and may require significant time away from school or work. After the procedure, you’ll likely have difficulty speaking and eating. 

Invisalign can be a good choice for correcting an overbite during this time. Because of how the system works, you can treat your overbite without any noticeable changes to your teeth or face. 

Invisalign can also help you avoid feeling self-conscious about your treatment and make your recovery as easy as possible.

In Conclusion

Jaw surgery is a serious procedure that can be both painful and difficult to recover from. However, if done correctly, it can solve a wide variety of issues that affect a person’s quality of life. 

If you’re considering corrective jaw surgery, it’s essential to do your research and be prepared for the process. It’s also important to be ready for the aftermath of the surgery, both physically and mentally. 

It’s never easy to go through a major surgery, but with the proper support, you can come out on the other side healthy.