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Home › Faqs About Jaw Surgery

Faqs About Jaw Surgery
Posted on 5/1/2025 by NC Pediatric Dentisty
A dentist examining a young girl's teeth while her mother offers support in a modern dental clinic.Jaw surgery, also known as oral surgery, is a procedure that corrects problems with the jaw and facial bones. It can be used to improve chewing function, speech, and facial appearance.

Who needs jaw surgery?


Jaw surgery is typically recommended for people who have:

•  TMJ disorders: These disorders affect the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jawbone to the skull. Symptoms can include pain, clicking, and difficulty opening the mouth.
•  Birth defects: Some people are born with jaw defects, such as a cleft lip or palate. These defects can affect the way the jaw grows and develops.
•  Trauma: Injuries to the jaw can cause misalignment or other problems that require surgery.
•  Sleep apnea: This condition causes pauses in breathing during sleep. Jaw surgery can help to open the airway and improve breathing.
•  Facial asymmetry: This is a condition where one side of the face is larger or smaller than the other. Jaw surgery can help to correct this imbalance.

What are the different types of jaw surgery?


There are many different types of jaw surgery, but some of the most common include:

•  Mandibular setback: This procedure moves the lower jaw backward.
•  Mandibular advancement: This procedure moves the lower jaw forward.
•  Maxillary impaction: This procedure moves the upper jaw upward.
•  Genioplasty: This procedure changes the shape or size of the chin.

What is the recovery process like?


The recovery process from jaw surgery varies depending on the specific procedure. However, most people will experience some swelling, bruising, and pain. You may need to eat soft foods for a few weeks and avoid strenuous activity. It is important to follow your surgeon's instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery.

How much does jaw surgery cost?


The cost of jaw surgery varies depending on the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon's fees, and other factors. It is important to discuss the cost with your surgeon before the procedure.

What are the risks of jaw surgery?


As with any surgery, there are some risks associated with jaw surgery. These risks can include infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. However, these risks are rare when the surgery is performed by a qualified surgeon.

What are the benefits of jaw surgery?


Jaw surgery can provide many benefits, including:

•  Improved chewing function
•  Improved speech
•  Improved facial appearance
•  Reduced pain
•  Improved sleep
•  Increased self-confidence

What should I do if I think I need jaw surgery?


If you think you may need jaw surgery, it is important to see an oral and maxillofacial surgeon for an evaluation. The surgeon will be able to determine if surgery is right for you and discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure.

If you have any further questions about jaw surgery, please do not hesitate to ask your oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

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Our community of dentistry superheroes prioritizes smiles above all else—theirs AND yours. That’s why we make it easy to find the location that’s right for you. Learn what to expect for your first visit, virtually tour the space, meet the dentists, and discover location-specific specialties and resources below.


Advance Pediatric Dentistry


135 Medical Drive
Advance, NC
(743) 259-8887

Afton Pediatric Dentistry


5641 Poplar Tent Rd. Suite 201
Concord, NC
(980) 291-4013

Caldwell Pediatric Dentistry


210 Willow Street NW
Lenoir, NC
(828) 383-0322

Denver Pediatric Dentistry


275 NC-16 Business Suite 204B
Denver, NC
(980) 303-5083

Dunn Pediatric Dentistry


711 Tilghman Drive
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(910) 984-0026

Fuquay Pediatric Dentistry


401 Attain Street Suite 111
Fuquay-Varina, NC
(984) 313-4086

Hickory Grove Pediatric Dentistry


5708 North Sharon Amity Rd. Suite 5708a
Charlotte, NC
(980) 369-2014

Huntersville Pediatric Dentistry


9625 Northcross Center Ct. Suite 101
Huntersville, NC
(980) 306-6635

Locust Pediatric Dentistry


236 Market Street Suite 200
Locust, NC
(980) 354-0784

Mebane Pediatric Dentistry


1107 S. Fifth St. # 100
Mebane, NC
(984) 290-5016

Mint Hill Pediatric Dentistry


9055 Cresswind Blvd. Suite 104
Charlotte, NC
(980) 369-2032

Mooresville Pediatric Dentistry


202 Williamson Rd. Suite 200
Mooresville, NC
(980) 455-4053

Salisbury Pediatric Dentistry


140 Mahaley Avenue Suite B
Salisbury, NC
(980) 305-5002

Shelby Pediatric Dentistry


221 Simpson Park Rd.
Shelby, NC
(980) 436-2483

Sherrills Ford Pediatric Dentistry


7856 Village Center N Suite 200
Sherrills Ford, NC
(980) 291-9087

Statesville Pediatric Dentistry


1454 Fern Creek Drive
Statesville, NC
(980) 391-2407





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