Painful Jaw Joint
The relationship between dental occlusion (the bite) and temporomandibular (jaw) joint symptoms is highly controversial. Orthodontics are sometimes helpful in relieving discomfort but cannot be relied upon to correct this problem. Braces, mouth splints, and other techniques may be helpful. Symptoms such as pain, headaches, and clicking may seem to go away while braces are on, but they often return once the braces are removed.
The cost of these techniques can vary depending on the extent of the procedure necessary.
Poorly Positioned Jaws
Severe malocclusion, a condition in which the jaws and therefore the teeth do not line up property, is uncommon, especially in adults. This problem cannot be camouflaged or modified by growth changes and ultimately requires several therapeutic steps, including restorative dentistry, realignment of the teeth, and surgical repositioning of the jaw or teeth, To accomplish this, a comprehensive diagnosis of the problem and a treatment schedule is necessary so that all the professionals involved are working toward the same goal.
There are four basic ways to correct the jaw (also called orthognathic surgery), and they are performed as follows:
Lower jaw advancement
This is one of the most common oral surgery procedures performed today The goal is to lengthen the lower jaw so that it aligns property with the nose, resulting in a more attractive profile. Several surgical techniques may be used to accomplish this goal and the oral surgeon will determine the best technique to suit each individual's needs. Generally, these surgical interventions are intra oral (done inside the mouth). No scar will be visible.
Lower jaw set back
An excessively large lower jaw is rare in the overall population (3% in Caucasians). It may be accompanied by problems with the upper jaw. The surgical procedures for moving the lower jaw back into alignment with the upper vary according to the needs of the individual. Again, the incisions are intra oral.
Upper jaw adjustments
It is possible to move the upper jaw (or maxilla) upward, downward, backward, and forward, as well as to increase or decrease the width, all to varying degrees. Adjustments are frequently made in conjunction with lower jaw surgery, although sometimes it may only be necessary to modify the chin's appearance by inserting a silastic implant as discussed in the chapter Facial Harmony. The incisions are intra-oral.
