Orthognathic surgery is needed when jaws do not meet correctly and/or teeth do not seem to fit with jaws. Teeth are straightened with orthodontics, and corrective jaw surgery repositions misaligned jaws. This not only improves facial appearance, but also ensures that teeth meet correctly and function properly.

Who needs Orthognathic Surgery?

People who can benefit from orthognathic surgery include those with an improper bite or jaws that are positioned incorrectly. Jaw growth is a gradual process, and in some instances, the upper and lower jaws may grow at different rates. The result can be a host of problems that can affect chewing function, speech, long-term oral health, and appearance. Injury to the jaw and birth defects can also affect jaw alignment. While orthodontics alone can correct many bite problems if only the teeth are involved, orthognathic surgery may be required if the jaws also need repositioning.

Difficulty in the following areas should be evaluated :
  • difficulty in chewing, biting or swallowing
  • speech problems
  • chronic jaw or TMJ pain
  • open bite
  • protruding jaw
  • breathing problems

Any of these can exist at birth or be acquired after birth as a result of hereditary, environmental influences or trauma to the face. Before any treatment begins, a consultation will be held to perform a complete examination with x-rays. During the pre-treatment consultation process, feel free to ask any questions that you have regarding your treatment. When you are fully informed about the aspects of your care, you and your dental team will make the decision to proceed with treatment together.

Facial Trauma

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons are trained, skilled and uniquely qualified to manage and treat Facial Trauma. Drs. Wolf and / or Dohse provide emergency room coverage for facial injuries at Elmhurst Memorial, Good Samaritan, and Central Du Page Hospitals. Services include but are not limited to:

  • facial lacerations
  • lip lacerations
  • intra oral lacerations
  • fractured teeth
  • avulsed (knocked out) teeth
  • fractured facial bones (cheek or nose)
  • fractured jaws (upper and lower jaw)   


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