When all other treatments have failed, surgery is considered to correct a bite. At the Piper Clinic, we can help you understand the surgical treatment options that are available to treat your condition.
Mandibular advancement is a surgical procedure that is recommended for obstructive sleep apnea patients. Structures that surround the airway can cause a blockage. The surgery enlarges and stabilizes the velo-orohypopharyngeal airway (the area of the upper airway at the base of the tongue and soft palate) by moving these structures forward to reduce the blockage. Mandibular advancement surgery is usually performed on patients who have failed to respond to other treatments for obstructive sleep apnea.
Mandibular setback is a surgical procedure that is often recommended for patients who have an underbite. An underbite is a dental condition where the teeth of the lower jaw protrude beyond the teeth of the upper jaw. In mandibular setback surgery, a surgeon removes part of the mandible to establish a stable and normal bite.
Maxillary surgery may become necessary to correct upper jaw (maxilla) abnormalities depending on the severity and complexity of the deformity. Some deformities can lead to problems chewing and swallowing, breathing, and speaking. Esthetics is also a concern for patients who can experience psychological effects because of a facial asymmetry. When the upper jaw is too large or too small, it may need to be moved to improve the function and esthetics.
Following surgery, a splint may be used to immobilize the mandible. At the Piper Clinic, we use splints and orthodontic appliances to minimize jaw movement and speed recovery. The length patients are required to wear a splint (sometimes up to nine months) depends on the type of surgery.
727-823-3220
131 2nd Ave. S.
St. Petersburg, FL 33701