Overbite is a form of malocclusion (teeth misalignment), which happen when the upper teeth overlap the under teeth by a remarkable margin, usually more than 2 to 4 millimeters. This conditions makes people lose their confidence on having a smile or being insecure about their face aesthetic. Not only causing aesthetic problem, an overbite jaw can also causes many functional problems such as difficulty in eating, pronouncing or temporomandibular joint disorder. Overbite correction surgery is a type of corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery), which is a comprehensive and effective solution, that transform thousand of patient life, help them regain the face balance and confidence in themself.
I. What is an overbite, and its cause?
An overbite happens when jawbones grow unevenly, causing the teeth to not align properly. Common reasons include:
- Genetics: The condition coming from genetic factors, it have been a traits running in the family for many generations.
- Bad habits: The habits such as finger sucking, tongue thrusting or mouth breathing develop from childhood can affect jaw development.
- Growth disorders: Issues with bone development during childhood or injuries/ trauma can also lead to jaw misalignment.
Corrective overbite surgery effects
II. When is an overbite surgery needed?
An overbite surgery is recommended in these cases:
- Severe skeletal overbite: Unable to be treated completely with orthodontics.
- Face asymmetry: Significantly affects appearance that worsen mental health through confidence loss.
- Functional disorder: Having difficulties in eating, pronouncing or experiencing pain in the temporomandibular joint.
III. Overbite surgical treating methods
1. Maxillary osteotomy (Le Fort I Osteotomy)
- Purpose: Adjust the protrusion, tilt angle or upper jaw deviation.
- Technique: Cut across the upper jawbone, move it to the correct position, then fix it with screws or plates.
- Advantage: Highly effective in aesthetics and functional improvement.
- Disadvantage: Can temporarily lose sensation in the cheek area.
2. Mandibular Osteotomy (BSSO - Bilateral Sagittal Split Osteotomy)
- Purpose: Address the situation of short or dislocated lower jaw.
- Technique: Cut across the lower jaw bone, adjust and secure with Titan screws.
- Advantage: Bring long-lasting balance to the face with sustainable effects.
- Disadvantage: Risks of temporal lower teeth nerves damage.
3. Double Jaw Surgery
- Purpose: For the cases of complex or or asymmetrical overbite of both jaws.
- Technique: Simultaneously adjust both the upper and lower jaw bone, in some special cases, the surgeons will combined this procedures with genioplasty to optimize the aesthetic result.
- Advantage: Comprehensive improvement of facial appearance and functions.
- Disadvantage: Requires complex surgical technique and a longer recovery period.
IV. Post-operative care: The key factor to determine success
Post-operative care plays an important role in ensuring the longevity of the outcomes, we can divide it into three main phases:
1. Right after the surgery (0-7 days)
- Monitored at the hospital: Patients are usually hospitalized for at least a day to be closely monitored by the doctor, pain and complications (if any).
- Diet: Only consume liquid food, avoid chewing and frequent jaw movement.
- Treat the incision sites: Gently clean the incision with disinfectant solution to prevent infections.
2. Early recovery phase: (2-4 weeks)
- Diet: Begin eating soft food, avoid chewing hard or applied strong bite force.
- Physical therapy: Practice light exercises to restore and reactivate the movement of the jaw muscles.
3. Late recovery phase: (4-12 weeks)
- Attending scheduled check-up to examine the stability of the bone.
- Adjust orthodontics (if needed) to perfect the occlusion.
V. Post-surgery check-up schedule
- A week: Examine the incision, provide treatment to remain swellings or infections (if any).
- A month: Evaluate the recovery of the bone and occlusion.
VI. Is overbite correction surgery safe?
Overbite correction surgery is a safe procedure when performed by a team of highly experienced specialized doctors at reputable facilities.
VII. Conclusion
Overbite surgery not only improves the appearance of the face but also restores patient abilities to chew or pronounce comfortably, and bringing confidence in life. With the development of modern medicine, the surgical process is becoming increasingly safe, effective, and less invasive.
If you are having overbite conditions, do not hesitate over meeting our specialized doctor for proper consultation and treatment. We guarantee to bring back your confidence by restoring your facial harmony.
* The results achieved depend on each individual’s physiology.
