Jaw Surgery, TMJ Disorders and Facial Trauma

Orthognathic (corrective jaw) surgery

When the upper and lower jaws are skeletally mismatched in size or position, braces alone cannot fully correct the bite because the underlying bony framework, not just the teeth, is misaligned. Orthognathic surgery repositions one or both jaws to restore a functional bite, improve breathing where airway is affected, and bring facial proportions into balance.

Treatment is planned jointly between the orthodontist and the maxillofacial surgeon, typically involving a phase of braces before surgery to align the teeth within each jaw, the surgical procedure itself under general anaesthesia, and a further phase of braces afterwards to fine-tune the final bite.

TMJ disorders

Clicking or popping sounds from the jaw joint, restricted mouth opening, morning jaw stiffness, and pain near the ear that can radiate to the temple or neck are common presentations of temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Stress-related clenching and grinding are frequent contributing factors.

Most cases respond well to conservative, non-surgical care: a custom occlusal splint worn typically at night to reduce joint loading, physiotherapy exercises for the jaw muscles, management of clenching or grinding habits, and correction of any bite discrepancy contributing to the strain. Arthrocentesis, a minor joint-flushing procedure, or open joint surgery is reserved for a small minority of cases that do not settle with conservative measures.

Facial trauma

Fractures of the jaw, cheekbone or bones around the eye socket following accidents, falls or sporting injuries require accurate surgical reduction and internal fixation, usually with small titanium plates and screws, to restore both a functioning bite and the natural contour of the face.

Early treatment, ideally within the first few days of injury, generally gives the best functional and aesthetic outcome, since swelling, scar tissue and bone healing in a displaced position all make later correction more difficult.

The multidisciplinary approach

Complex jaw and facial cases are managed by a team that may include the maxillofacial surgeon, orthodontist, general dentist and, where needed, an ENT specialist or physiotherapist, ensuring that functional, aesthetic and long-term dental health considerations are all addressed together rather than in isolation.