Maxillofacial surgery is that branch of medicine that specializes in the prevention and analysis of pathologies of the jaw and facial bone structure. Many times, these interventions are performed because the patient has trouble performing everyday activities such as eating, sleeping, or even breathing.
When do bite problems appear?
While it is true that an accident or severe contusion can cause the need for maxillofacial intervention, in most cases, the irregular bite responds to a genetic issue. These problems can begin to be treated from the age of 10 with orthodontics first and, if the problem persists, with maxillofacial surgery. There are two types of bites.
Prognathism
This problem appears when the lower jaw is ahead of the upper jaw. This type of bite is also known as a class III bite.
Retrogantism
This problem occurs when the lower jaw is smaller than the upper jaw so that the upper jaw appears forward. Depending on the severity, this type of bite is known as a class I or class II bite.
When is maxillofacial surgery necessary?
Usually, this type of surgery is applied when there are abnormalities in the bone skeleton that cause an incorrect position of the jaw and the contact of the teeth.
In most cases, it responds to a type of irregular bite that cannot be corrected with orthodontics. After spending years with dental appliances, patients need surgical intervention to correct their teeth.
In addition to Class I, II and III bites, there are other bite problems that also require surgical intervention. These are:
- Open bite: The molars do fit, but the visible teeth appear separated.
- Cross bite: The maxilla is narrower than the jaw.
- Scissor bite: The top protrudes and the teeth below do not fit.
- Gingival smile: Appears when the smile shows a lot of gum.
How do I know if I need maxillofacial surgery?
To find out if maxillofacial surgery is needed, it is necessary to study and analyze in detail a specialist who can observe each case in a particular way to determine whether a patient needs this type of intervention.
In many cases, these problems can be solved with orthodontics. When the malformation persists is when you should go to the specialist to start treatment.
There are other symptoms that may signal the need for this type of operation. Although, obviously, each case must be studied individually. For example:
- A constant perception of an altered bite
- Chronic pain in the jaws
- Difficulty eating certain foods
- Feeling exhausted
- Irregular breathing
- Sleep apnea
95% of apnea cases can be cured
One of the most problematic symptoms of bite problems is that of sleep apnea. Sleep apnea syndrome is a respiratory disorder that affects about 4% of the adult population and causes difficulty breathing at night.
An irregular bite affects the patient’s quality of life as they see discomfort in many of the daily activities. Perhaps, the most serious problems are respiratory since it is a constant and latent condition 24 hours a day.
It is for this reason that, after this type of intervention, the patient manages to improve his life substantially.
How much does maxillofacial surgery cost?
The price depends on the type of intervention to be carried out. In general, the price of these interventions ranges between 9,000 and 20,000 euros.
In some cases these operations can be carried out through social security, but not all cases are covered and the waiting list forces the intervention to be delayed for years.
If you have questions about this type of treatment or, well, you want to make an appointment for a specialist to assess, personally, your case, you can click on the following link to book an hour with your trusted dentist. At Nart we will be happy to receive you and to assess your case with total confidentiality and professionalism.
