Things You Need to Know Before an Upper Jaw Expander Surgery

A warm smile is the universal language of kindness. But an underbite can affect mental and physical health, too. It is called underbite when the lower teeth extend beyond the upper teeth. Typically, it arises due to a jaw misalignment, medically referred to as a Class III malocclusion. Underbites can lead to increased wear and tear of the front teeth, making them more prone to breakage and chipping. It can also affect the way of chewing food, thus having a potential impact on one’s self-esteem and social interaction. Fortunately, most underbites can be corrected through conventional orthodontic techniques, although surgical intervention may be necessary in certain situations. Upper jaw expanders are such a technique to correct underbites using surgical and non-surgical procedures gradually. In this blog, we discuss upper jaw expander surgery.

Causes of Underbites

Underbites can lead to lousy breathing, sleep apnea, mouth breathing, and temporomandibular joint disorder. The most common reason for underbites includes childhood habits like thumb sucking, tongue-thrusting, using a bottle for too long, and facial injuries that may damage the jaw bones. Consequently, individuals with one or multiple facial injuries impacting their jaw may be more likely to develop an underbite. Genetics and tumours can also play a role in underbites.

What Is Upper Jaw Expansion Surgery?

When the upper jaw is narrow or smaller, a surgeon would suggest an upper jaw expansion surgery. The surgery is also called SAME (Surgically Assisted Maxillary Expansion). The surgery is usually done with other orthodontic procedures to create room for the teeth in the upper jaws. The surgery aims to get a balanced and even upper jaw expansion.

Jaw Expander Procedure

During the surgery, the upper jaw is carefully cut in specific places to create sections. An expansion appliance is fitted in your mouth, and after about three days of recovery, the jaw expansion process begins using this device. The expansion process will take a few months, and your surgeon will closely monitor you. The expansion gradually accommodates the new width and a gap forms between the front teeth as the bones separate. When the desired development has reached, the process stops, and the device remains in your mouth for a few more months to allow the bone to heal completely. Once healed, you will be advised to start other orthodontic treatments, like braces.

Upper Jaw Expander Recovery

After the upper jaw expander surgery, you can stay overnight at the hospital for monitoring. Once you leave the hospital, the surgeon will advise you to continue medication to ease the pain and prevent infection. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial since you have an expander in the mouth. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water after brushing and brushing with a soft toothbrush could alleviate the discomfort. Using cold packs on your jaw can reduce swelling after surgery. Remember to drink plenty of water.

Choosing the Right Jaw Expander Surgery Hospital in India

If you are looking for an upper jaw expander surgery hospital in India, opt for a skilled surgeon with experience in handling such surgeries. Consider visiting Richardson Dental and Craniofacial Hospital, one of India’s leading dental and craniofacial hospitals, to get an affordable yet effective jaw surgery treatment in India.