Misaligned teeth (malocclusion) can have many causes, from genetics to accidents and injuries. A maxillofacial surgeon can correct alignment issues with jaw surgery. While perhaps a bit intimidating, corrective jaw surgery can vastly improve your quality of life in the following ways.

The Top 3 Reasons for Getting Corrective Jaw Surgery

1. Preserve and Protect Teeth

Malocclusion can often result in a bite imbalance. There are many ways teeth can be misaligned, including an overbite, underbite, or open bite, in which some teeth do not make contact with opposing teeth. 

The problem with malocclusion is that it places unnecessary stress on certain teeth. Over time, the unequal pressure can wear down the enamel, the hard outer layer of the tooth that prevents decay. This can cause sensitivity, pain, and an increased risk of cavities.

2. Treat Headaches and Migraines

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge that connects the jawbone to the skull. Stress, genetics, or chronic teeth grinding and clenching may lead to TMJ disorders. This can cause soreness and jaw pain, as well as headaches and migraines. 

Many people with TMJ-related headaches and migraines take pain relievers to improve their discomfort. For some, the pain comes daily, and medication doesn’t seem to be enough. In these cases, a maxillofacial surgeon can perform a corrective jaw procedure to provide lasting relief.

3. Improve Biting and Chewing

Pain or difficulty biting and chewing can make it hard to eat. If the discomfort is severe enough, some might avoid foods that require more chewing, such as raw fruits and vegetables. This could lead to nutrient deficiencies. 

With corrective jaw surgery, you’ll no longer risk facing a sore or locked up jaw every time you try to chew tough foods. This procedure corrects misalignments that make chewing painful and inefficient. You can then go back to eating all the foods you enjoy.

If you would benefit from corrective jaw surgery, reach out to Lyle C. Yanagihara, DDS, MS. Based in Honolulu, this oral and maxillofacial surgeon offers safe and effective dental solutions, including wisdom tooth removal, cleft lip and palate treatments, and dental implants. Dr. Yanagihara stays up to date on all the latest dental advancements, so he can continue offering patients the best options for a strong and healthy smile. Contact the office at (808) 973-1433 to make an appointment. For more information about jaw surgery, visit the website.