Orthognathic Surgery

Correct a Misaligned Jaw or Bite

A misaligned jaw is not an easy thing to live with. It can cause difficulties with chewing, negatively affect your teeth, and cause patients to feel self-conscious about their appearance. A type of oral and maxillofacial surgery called orthognathic surgery, or corrective jaw surgery, can help in these instances. 

Orthognathic surgery can also fix problems with sleep apnea, malocclusion, and cleft palate, as well. Experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons are highly trained and skilled in these types of surgeries, and our two trusted oral surgeons have many years of experience successfully performing the full range of corrective jaw procedures at our offices in Pocatello and Blackfoot.

Orthognathic surgery is performed by a maxillofacial surgeon in collaboration with orthodontists and general dentists. Sometimes, surgery is needed as preparation for orthodontic treatment in teens and children. Often, orthognathic surgery not only improves physical and structural issues but also improves facial appearance. If you are suffering from the following difficulties, you may be a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, and we encourage you to contact one of our convenient southeast Idaho locations to schedule a thorough examination:

• Difficulty chewing, biting down, or swallowing
• A jaw that looks or feels misaligned
• Problems with speech
• Chronic jaw or TMJ pain
• An open bite (upper and lower front teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed)
• A protruding jaw
• Breathing problems

Orthognathic surgery is incredibly effective and is very rewarding for our patients, often giving them a healthy, beautiful, and functional jaw structure for the very first time. During your consultation and exam with your oral surgeon, your questions and concerns will be addressed, including your options for anesthesia (which typically includes IV sedation to keep you comfortable), and your doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan for your care. 

We want to assure you that at Oral Surgery Specialists of Idaho, you will be in the best hands — as highly trained oral and maxillofacial surgeons, Drs. Baker and Jepsen of Oral Surgery Specialists of Idaho are uniquely qualified to perform your procedure for the very best jaw function and aesthetic results.

Orthognathic Surgery in Pocatello and Blackfoot, ID

Our team is dedicated to the best in oral surgery care using the most advanced techniques in a compassionate, calm, and inviting atmosphere. We are happy to speak with you to answer any questions and resolve any concerns you may have about your procedure, and we will go out of our way to address any fears you may harbor. 

Our staff will treat you like a family member and see to all your needs. Detailed pre- and post-operative instructions will be provided, and a prescription for any medications you require for a smooth recovery. If you need orthognathic surgery to correct your jaw, we encourage you to schedule a consultation in one of our locations (in Pocatello and Blackfoot) for a complete evaluation of your condition and a discussion of next steps.

Orthognathic Surgery Procedure

Early diagnosis and treatment of any disharmonies of the jaw are important to reduce the risks of serious complications or conditions. In order to determine if corrective jaw surgery is necessary, you will be evaluated through a dynamic team approach involving your oral surgery specialist, dentist, and orthodontist. Your treatment will likely include orthodontics before and after corrective jaw surgery, which will alter the duration of your treatment. 

By undergoing corrective jaw surgery, your teeth are repositioned in a more functional, balanced, and healthy manner. Some patients experience drastic enhancements to their appearance and speech. If you think that you may be a candidate for corrective jaw surgery, we encourage you to contact Oral Surgery Specialists of Idaho for an initial consultation with one of our surgeons. Both Dr. Jepsen and Dr. Baker have received extensive surgical training and education making him uniquely qualified to examine and treat abnormalities of the facial skeleton. Please call our Pocatello and Blackfoot, ID, office today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Baker or Dr. Jepsen.