When jaw or facial issues affect your comfort, function, or appearance, maxillofacial and orthognathic surgery provides a long-term solution. These specialized procedures address everything from facial trauma to jaw misalignment, helping patients regain confidence and quality of life. With advanced techniques and a personalized approach, every treatment is designed for lasting results.
Schedule a consultation at Dr. Peter Scheer, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in Rancho Mirage, CA, to explore your options.
What Is Maxillofacial Surgery?
Maxillofacial surgery focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the jaw, face, and skull. These procedures restore function, improve aesthetics, and help patients overcome serious oral health challenges. Many individuals seek this treatment for trauma, congenital concerns, or jaw misalignment.
- Corrective procedures: Address breathing difficulties, bite issues, and facial asymmetry.
- Facial trauma repair: Treats fractures, soft tissue injuries, and other injuries.
- TMJ disorder solutions: Relieves jaw discomfort and improves mobility.
- Reconstructive surgery: Repairs damage from accidents, previous procedures, or birth conditions.
What Is Facial Trauma?
Facial trauma includes injuries that affect the bones, muscles, and soft tissues of the face. These injuries can impact function, create discomfort, and lead to long-term complications if left untreated. Prompt medical attention ensures proper healing and optimal outcomes.
- Bone fractures: Jaw, cheek, or nose fractures requiring stabilization.
- Soft tissue damage: Cuts, nerve injuries, or muscle tears affecting movement.
- Jaw dislocation: Misalignment that makes speaking and chewing difficult.
- Tooth and gum trauma: Injuries that damage or displace teeth.
Causes Of Facial Trauma
Facial trauma can occur in many ways, from accidental falls to high-impact injuries. Understanding the causes can help individuals take precautions to prevent serious damage.
- High-impact sports: Activities like football or boxing increase the risk of facial injuries.
- Vehicle accidents: Car, motorcycle, or cycling collisions may cause fractures or jaw misalignment.
- Falls and workplace injuries: Unexpected impacts can damage facial structures.
- Physical trauma: Assault or blunt force injuries may require reconstructive surgery.
Treatment Of Facial Trauma
Facial trauma treatment aims to restore both function and aesthetics after an injury. Depending on the severity of the damage, surgical techniques can repair bone fractures, restore soft tissues, and improve facial symmetry.
- Fracture stabilization: Secures broken bones to promote proper healing.
- Soft tissue repair: Restores skin, muscles, and nerves for improved mobility.
- Jaw realignment: Corrects dislocations and improves function.
- Scar revision: Reduces visible scarring for a more natural appearance.
What Is Orthognathic Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery, or corrective jaw surgery, addresses skeletal misalignment that affects function and facial harmony. This procedure improves bite alignment, enhances aesthetics, and relieves discomfort caused by jaw positioning issues.
- Bite alignment correction: Treats overbites, underbites, and crossbites.
- Jaw repositioning: Moves the upper or lower jaw to achieve a balanced bite.
- Improved speech and chewing: Enhances oral function for long-term health.
- Airway improvement: Helps with breathing difficulties, including sleep apnea.
Causes & Symptoms Of Jaw Misalignment
Jaw misalignment can develop from birth, result from trauma, or worsen over time due to improper development. Symptoms may appear gradually or lead to more serious oral health concerns.
- Genetic conditions: Some people are born with jaw irregularities.
- Injury-related misalignment: Accidents or fractures can shift the jaw’s natural position.
- Chronic discomfort: Uneven movement may cause headaches or muscle strain.
- Difficulty with eating and speaking: Misalignment may interfere with daily activities.
Treatment For Jaw Misalignment
Jaw misalignment treatment involves precise surgical adjustments to reposition the jaw for improved function and aesthetics. A customized approach ensures the best possible outcome for each patient.
- Surgical realignment: Moves the upper or lower jaw into the correct position.
- Bite correction: Enhances chewing efficiency and reduces strain.
- Improved facial symmetry: Restores natural balance to facial features.
- Long-term stability: Provides lasting results for better function and comfort.
Specialized Care For A Balanced, Functional & Beautiful You
Maxillofacial and orthognathic surgery offers life-changing benefits, from improved jaw function to enhanced facial symmetry. Whether you are seeking treatment for facial trauma or jaw misalignment, expert surgical care can restore both comfort and confidence. Every procedure is tailored to your specific needs, ensuring optimal results. Schedule your consultation at Dr. Peter Scheer, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery in Rancho Mirage, CA, to begin your journey toward a healthier, more confident smile.