What is Jaw Surgery?
Jaw surgery is a branch of dentistry that includes surgical procedures performed to diagnose and treat various health problems in the mouth, jaw and face. This surgical specialty works to protect and improve the health and function of the bones, muscles, nerves and soft tissues in the mouth and jaw. Jaw surgery can be performed for both aesthetic and functional purposes and can significantly improve the quality of life of patients.
Areas of Use of Jaw Surgery
Jaw surgery can be applied for many different situations:
Tooth Extraction: Jaw surgery is used especially when it is necessary to extract impacted teeth or wisdom teeth. These teeth can often get stuck in the jaw bone or lie on their side, which can lead to pain and infection. Jaw surgery ensures the safe removal of these teeth.
Orthognathic Surgery: Orthognathic surgery is performed to correct inconsistencies in the jaw and face structure. These conditions are usually congenital and can cause problems such as malocclusion (malocclusion). Orthognathic surgery is performed to realign the jaw bones and provide a proper bite.
Dental Implants: Dental implants are placed in the jaw bone to replace missing teeth. Jaw surgery ensures that the implants are placed correctly and fuse with the jaw bone. This replaces the missing teeth with stable and natural-looking teeth.
Jaw Cysts and Tumors: Cysts and tumors that may form in the mouth and jaw area may require surgical intervention. Such formations can cause damage to the jaw bone or soft tissues and can cause serious health problems if left untreated. Jaw surgery ensures that these cysts and tumors are removed safely.
Trauma and Injuries: Fractures or displacements in the jaw bone may occur as a result of accidents, sports injuries or other traumas. Jaw surgery plays an important role in the treatment of such injuries. It ensures that the jaw bone fuses correctly and the facial structure regains its normal functions.
Jaw Surgery Process
Jaw surgery usually follows these steps:
Examination and Diagnosis: In the first stage, the dentist or jaw surgeon listens to the patient's complaints and performs a detailed examination. If necessary, imaging techniques such as x-ray, tomography or MRI are used to determine the source of the problem.
Treatment Planning: After the diagnosis is made, a treatment plan is created in line with the patient's condition and needs. This plan includes the type of surgical intervention, its duration and the recovery process.
Surgical Intervention: The surgical procedure is performed according to the determined treatment plan. The surgical intervention is performed under local or general anesthesia. The duration and complexity of the procedure depend on the type of problem being treated.
Recovery and Follow-up: The recovery process begins after the surgical intervention. During this period, the patient is given the necessary instructions to accelerate the recovery process and prevent complications. Regular check-ups and follow-up visits ensure that the recovery process progresses healthily.
Advantages of Jaw Surgery
Jaw surgery offers many advantages:
Pain and Discomfort Relief: Jaw surgery can eliminate toothaches, jaw pain, and other discomforts.
Aesthetic Improvements: It provides an aesthetic appearance by correcting inconsistencies in the jaw and facial structure.
Functional Improvements: It improves chewing, speech, and respiratory functions.
Long-Term Solutions: Jaw surgery improves the quality of life of patients by providing permanent and long-term solutions.
In conclusion, jaw surgery is an important branch of dentistry that can effectively treat various health problems in the mouth, jaw, and face. Thanks to modern techniques and technologies, jaw surgery has become safer, more effective, and more comfortable. Patients can live healthier and happier lives thanks to the aesthetic and functional improvements offered by jaw surgery.
