Corrective Jaw Treatment
This website aims to inform and support patients at
Bristol Dental Hospital as they embark on their jaw surgery
journey. It has been constructed using
feedback from our past and current patients.
According to the British Orthodontic
Society approximately 3,000 people a year have orthognathic
treatment in Britain.
Corrective jaw surgery - also known as orthognathic treatment
(Ortho to straighten, gnathia meaning jaw in Latin) - uses
orthodontic appliances (braces) and surgery to reposition either
one or both jaws.
Jaw surgery may be indicated for patients with:
- A poor bite or crooked teeth which cannot be corrected by
braces alone (improving appearance and making it easier to
eat)
- Jaw and facial disharmony which has occurred naturally or as a
result of trauma.
- Cleft lip and palate and other similar conditions
- Sleep apnoea (difficulties breathing when asleep)
Embarking on orthognathic treatment is a big commitment for any
patient; it entails lengthy orthodontic treatment and major
surgery. The change in facial appearance can be dramatic and take
time to get used to. Despite this patient satisfaction levels
with their results is high, with nine out of ten patients saying it
even improved their health and wellbeing.
