When a patient experiences certain concerns related to the neck, jaw, face, or mouth, their dentist may advise maxillofacial surgery as a possible treatment. Jaw asymmetry, underbites, overbites, certain diseases, and jaw deformities can all be candidates for corrective treatment of this type. Dr. David Carl Obenchain is proud to provide patients with the benefit of his years of experience and extensive training in maxillofacial surgery.
What Are Maxillofacial Surgical Procedures?
Maxillofacial refers to the region of the body that includes a patient’s mouth, neck, jaw, and face. Due to the presence of important nerves in this region, these procedures require a skilled surgeon who is well versed in this area and the treatments performed there. Among the types of procedures that fall under maxillofacial surgery are:Orthognathic Surgery – This form of surgery helps treat conditions that affect the growth and structure of the jaw. Orthodontic problems and deformities can often benefit from this kind of treatment.
Distraction Osteogenesis – When new bone growth needs to be stimulated, distraction osteogenesis may be performed. This new growth is accomplished by separating bony segments following an osteotomy. This is a useful procedure when a bone length or alignment needs correction.
Bone Grafting – When the jaw has insufficient mass to support the patient’s oral health, a graft of bone may be applied to aid in the anchoring of teeth or prosthetics. Deterioration or damage to the jaw can lead to a bone graft being necessary and is central to a ridge preservation treatment.
Nerve Repositioning – When dental implants are desired, but the natural placement of a nerve interferes with their implanting, the nerve may be removed through this procedure. This is most often the result of the deterioration of the jawbone.
Sinus Lift – When additional room is needed between the upper jaw bone and sinus cavity for the placement of implants, a sinus lift is often beneficial. This is accomplished by adding additional bone to the upper jaw.
Cleft Lip/Palate Surgery – While developing in the womb, some children will experience a splitting of the mouth or lip known as a cleft. Maxillofacial surgery can treat these concerns, setting them on a path to healthy, natural development.
What Is A Maxillofacial Surgeon?
A Maxillofacial surgeon is a physician who has received extensive training on dental concerns, oral and maxillofacial pathology, and surgical treatments for the area. The training they undergo extends beyond mere dentistry, covering a range of treatments for deformities, facial trauma, and orthodontic concerns of the face, jaw, head, and neck. Included are methods of identifying and treating cysts and cancerous cells that occur as part of oral cancers and performing temporomandibular joint surgery.
If you want to learn about maxillofacial surgical treatments, or have been advised that you may be a candidate, contact our offices today at 206-561-2345. Our friendly team will schedule you an appointment at our offices at Wisdom Teeth & Oral Surgery Center of Seattle. During your visit, you’ll receive a full examination, including any necessary imaging, that will be followed by a consultation that will cover the options available for treating your oral concern.
