Jaw Surgery in Riverside, CT
Surgical Solutions That Bring Balance Back to Your Smile
When the jaw doesn’t align properly, it can affect how you chew, speak, breathe, and even sleep. In some cases, orthodontics alone isn’t enough. Jaw surgery, also called orthognathic surgery, helps correct serious bite problems, jaw misalignment, and facial imbalance. Riverside Orthodontics works with trusted oral surgeons to provide complete care for patients who need surgical intervention for lasting, healthy results.
What Is Jaw Surgery and Who Needs It?
Jaw surgery involves correcting the position of the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. This procedure is usually recommended when the jawbones do not grow evenly or have been affected by injury or developmental conditions. It’s not cosmetic surgery, but it can improve facial appearance as a result of better alignment.
Patients in Riverside who deal with chronic jaw pain, trouble biting or chewing, speech issues, or breathing problems during sleep may benefit from surgical orthodontics. For some, this treatment is the only way to properly align the bite and prevent future complications.
Signs You Might Need Surgical Orthodontics
- Difficulty biting, chewing, or swallowing
- Chronic jaw or TMJ pain
- Speech issues linked to jaw alignment
- Breathing problems including sleep apnea
- Uneven facial appearance
- Teeth that don’t touch when the mouth is closed
- Open bite, underbite, or overbite too severe for braces alone
These problems can’t always be corrected with braces or aligners alone. Jaw surgery works with orthodontic treatment to bring lasting improvements in comfort, function, and appearance.
The Process: How Jaw Surgery Works
Jaw surgery isn’t a quick fix. It involves preparation, a surgical procedure, and follow-up orthodontic care. Here’s what you can expect as a patient of Riverside Orthodontics.
Before surgery, braces are placed to begin aligning the teeth in preparation for their new position. This step usually lasts 12 to 18 months. Although your bite may feel worse during this stage, it’s necessary to get the teeth in the right place so the surgeon can reposition the jaw accurately.
Once the teeth are ready, an oral surgeon performs the jaw surgery. This procedure is done in a hospital or surgical center under general anesthesia. It may involve moving the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. In some cases, the chin may also be adjusted for better balance.
Bone is cut and repositioned, then secured with plates and screws. The surgeon uses precise digital imaging and surgical guides to make sure every adjustment matches your treatment plan. Most patients stay in the hospital for one to two nights.
Initial healing takes about six weeks. Full healing may take several months. During this time, you’ll follow a soft-food diet and return for follow-up visits. Once healed, your braces stay on for a few more months to finish aligning the bite. After they are removed, retainers are given to hold the final results.
Jaw Surgery in Riverside CT: What Makes a Good Candidate?
Patients need to be fully grown before jaw surgery is considered. Most candidates are 17 or older with a mature jaw structure. Good health and realistic expectations are also important. Dr. Kesselman will assess your bite, facial balance, and jaw movement before making a recommendation.
Health Benefits That Go Beyond Looks
While jaw surgery often improves appearance, the goal is to fix issues that affect health and function.
- Better Chewing and Digestion: Proper bite alignment improves how you chew and helps break down food more effectively.
- Improved Speech: Jaw adjustments can fix speech problems caused by misalignment.
- Relief from TMJ Pain: Correcting jaw position can ease chronic jaw joint discomfort and tension headaches.
- Better Breathing During Sleep: Many patients with obstructive sleep apnea see significant improvement after jaw surgery.
- Long-Term Dental Health: A balanced bite reduces uneven tooth wear and helps prevent future dental damage.
Why Choose Riverside Orthodontics for Surgical Cases
Patients across Riverside and surrounding areas trust us for comprehensive orthodontic care. Our process is based on honest communication, advanced tools, and a team approach that puts your health first.
Not all orthodontic offices coordinate surgical cases. Dr. Kesselman partners with leading oral and maxillofacial surgeons in the area to manage each case closely. Your entire treatment plan is handled as a team, so your results are predictable and your care stays consistent.
We use digital x-rays and 3D scanning to plan every detail. Our iTero digital scanner captures precise models of your bite. This helps us and your surgeon understand what needs to be done before the first step is taken. You’ll know what to expect and see simulated results before your surgery takes place.
Surgical orthodontics requires commitment. We guide you through every phase, answering questions, managing appointments, and checking in after surgery. Our office keeps a close eye on your progress to help you stay comfortable and on track.
Payment Plans That Make Care Possible
Jaw surgery can be a significant investment, but our office is here to help. Riverside Orthodontics offers:
- Interest-free payment plans
- Insurance coordination
- Transparent cost breakdowns
We’ll walk you through your options before any step is taken.
Your First Step Starts With a Consultation
If you’ve been told you might need jaw surgery, or if you’re struggling with bite or jaw pain, now’s the time to take action. Riverside Orthodontics offers complete evaluations that include imaging, bite analysis, and a conversation about your goals.
We’ll let you know if surgical orthodontics is the right path or if another treatment may work better. No pressure, just facts.
Serving Riverside With Honest, Modern Orthodontic Care
Riverside Orthodontics is proud to serve patients who want more than just a straighter smile. Our practice focuses on health, comfort, and long-term results. Dr. Kesselman takes the time to understand each patient’s concerns and build a plan that makes sense.
Patients across Riverside, Greenwich, Stamford, and nearby towns choose our office for our advanced tools, approachable care, and strong relationships with top oral surgeons. We’re here to help you feel your best and smile with confidence.