Corrective Jaw Surgery
Oral Surgeon Orangeburg | When Bite, Breathing, or Jaw Alignment Needs More Than Braces
If you've been told your bite problems go beyond what orthodontics can fix, finding a skilledoral surgeon in Orangeburg is your most important next step. At Children's Dentistry of the Palisades, our surgical team provides corrective jaw surgery to help patients restore function, relieve chronic discomfort, and feel confident in their smiles again. Whether the issue stems from uneven jaw growth, a birth defect, or an injury, we are here to walk you through every stage of care with clarity and compassion.
Corrective jaw surgery, also known asorthognathic surgery, repositions the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both to improve how your teeth and jaws work together. The results can be life-changing, affecting everything from how you eat and speak to how you sleep and breathe.
Understanding Corrective Jaw Surgery
Ouroral and maxillofacial surgery team treats jaw alignment problems that braces alone simply cannot resolve. When the upper and lower jaws grow at different rates, or when a birth defect or facial injury affects jaw structure, surgery becomes the most effective path to lasting relief. The goal is always a healthy, balanced, and pain-free bite that holds up for life. There are several types of surgeries available depending on your anatomy and goals, and our team will identify the right approach for your unique situation during a thorough consultation.
Are You a Candidate?
You may be a strong candidate for corrective jaw surgery if you experience any of the following:
- Difficulty chewing, biting food, or swallowing
- Chronic jaw pain or TMJ-related headaches
- Excessive tooth wear caused by a misaligned bite
- An open bite where upper and lower teeth never fully meet
- Unbalanced facial appearance from the front or side
- A receding chin or protruding jaw
- Inability to close the lips comfortably without straining
- Chronic mouth breathing or persistent dry mouth
- Sleep apnea or snoring linked to jaw positioning
- Facial injury or birth defect affecting jaw structure
If several of these sound familiar, a consultation with our team will determine whether surgery is the right path, or whether a more conservative approach can meet your goals.
What to Expect Before, During, and After Jaw Surgery
Before Surgery
Treatment almost always begins with orthodontics. Braces or aligners move your teeth into positions that will align properly once the jaws are surgically repositioned. This phase typically takes six months to more than a year, depending on your case complexity.
During Surgery
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia at a hospital or accredited surgical center. Your surgeon carefully repositions the jaw and secures it using small plates and screws. Most procedures take two to four hours, and many patients stay just one night for monitoring before going home.
After Surgery
Recovery involves a soft or liquid diet for several weeks, prescribed pain management, and limited physical activity. Swelling peaks around days three to four, then steadily improves. Most patients return to work or school within two to three weeks. Post-surgical orthodontics follows to fine-tune the final bite and confirm everything is aligned as planned.
5 Reasons Patients Choose Children's Dentistry of the Palisades for Jaw Surgery
- Functional results that last. Surgery corrects jaw problems at the source, not just the surface, giving you a healthier outcome over the long term.
- Coordinated care under one roof. Orthodontics and oral surgery work together, so your plan stays consistent from first evaluation through final follow-up.
- Advanced technology. 3D imaging and digital surgical planning allow your team to map out the procedure with precision before anything begins.
- A team that communicates with you. Our surgeons and staff take time to explain every phase, so you always know what to expect next.
- Trusted by Rockland County families. We have served patients in Orangeburg, Tappan, and the surrounding communities for decades and bring that experience to every case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you accept insurance for corrective jaw surgery?
When surgery is performed to correct a functional problem, such as airway obstruction, severe bite dysfunction, or documented TMJ issues, it is often partially covered by medical insurance rather than dental insurance. Our team helps verify your benefits and submit required documentation before treatment begins.
How long does the full treatment take?
Total treatment time varies by case but typically ranges from 18 months to three or more years. This includes pre-surgical orthodontics, the surgery itself, your recovery period, and post-surgical orthodontic care to finalize results.
Is corrective jaw surgery painful?
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, so you will not feel anything during surgery. Post-operative discomfort is managed with prescribed medication, and most patients describe the first week as uncomfortable but very manageable. By week two, most are back to modified daily routines.
Take the Next Step Toward a Healthier Smile
There is no reason to keep living with jaw pain, bite problems, or breathing difficulties when effective treatment is available close to home. Call Children's Dentistry of the Palisades today, schedule your consultation online. Our team is ready to answer your questions and help you understand your options. We proudly serve families throughout Orangeburg, Tappan, and Rockland County, and we look forward to helping you move forward with confidence.
