The growth of a person’s jaw is a steady process and sometimes
the growth of the upper and lower jaw can occur at different
rates, causing a discrepancy in size and function. If one or
both jaws are of different sizes or proportions, a malocclusion
or “bad bite” can form, resulting in improper alignment of the
teeth and affecting your speech and chewing ability. Mouth
breathing can also become excessive with the tongue and lips
moving in an awkward fashion to accommodate the jaw discrepancy.
Malocclusions are not merely aesthetic; bad bites jeopardize the
overall health of your teeth and gums as well as the function of
your temporomandibular joint (jaw joint). If necessary,
corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) treats and
corrects these abnormalities. Orthodontic treatment may also be
used in conjunction with corrective jaw surgery to align the
teeth appropriately. The surgical process includes moving the
jaw into its proper position to restore facial balance and
improve function. In the recovery stag