What is Maxillofacial Surgery?
Maxillofacial surgery is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, injuries, and defects of the face, jaw, and mouth. This may include procedures to correct facial deformities, repair facial trauma, remove tumors, or treat temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
What is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is another specialized branch of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis, prevention, and correction of malpositioned teeth and jaws. Orthodontic treatment often involves the use of braces, aligners, or other dental appliances to gradually move teeth into their proper positions.
When are Maxillofacial Surgery and Orthodontics Combined?
There are several scenarios when a combination of maxillofacial surgery and orthodontics may be necessary:
1. Jaw Abnormalities
Jaw abnormalities, such as an overbite, underbite, or crossbite, can cause issues with chewing, speaking, and even breathing. In some cases, orthodontic treatment alone may not be sufficient to correct these problems, and maxillofacial surgery may be required to reposition the jawbones.
2. Facial Deformities
Facial deformities, including those caused by congenital conditions such as cleft lip and palate, can be addressed through a combination of maxillofacial surgery and orthodontics. Surgery is typically performed to repair the structural defects, while orthodontic treatment helps to align the teeth and improve the overall appearance and function of the mouth.
3. Occlusion Problems
Occlusion refers to the way the upper and lower teeth fit together when the mouth is closed. Problems with occlusion can lead to tooth wear, gum disease, and TMJ disorders. In some cases, orthodontic treatment may not be enough to correct the issue, and maxillofacial surgery may be necessary to reposition the jaws for a more harmonious bite.
4. Temporomandibular Joint Disorders
TMJ disorders can cause pain, clicking, and limited jaw movement. While conservative treatments, such as physical therapy and oral appliances, are often the first line of treatment, some patients may require maxillofacial surgery to address the underlying cause of their TMJ disorder.
Orthognathic Surgery: A Combination of Maxillofacial Surgery and Orthodontics
Orthognathic surgery is a procedure that combines maxillofacial surgery and orthodontics to correct jaw abnormalities and improve facial appearance. This type of surgery is typically performed by a maxillofacial surgeon in collaboration with an orthodontist. Patients undergoing orthognathic surgery will often require pre- and postoperative orthodontic treatment to ensure proper alignment of the teeth and long-term stability of the results.