Corrective Jaw Surgery in St. Louis
Advanced Surgical Solutions for Jaw Alignment and Function
Jaw alignment issues can affect more than just your bite — they can lead to chronic pain, breathing problems, difficulty chewing, and even facial imbalance. At Gateway Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons of St. Louis, we offer corrective jaw surgery to restore function, improve oral health, and enhance your overall quality of life.
Our board-certified team provides expert care in St. Louis oral and maxillofacial surgery, offering a full scope of jaw correction procedures using the latest in diagnostic imaging, 3D planning, and surgical precision.
What Is Corrective Jaw Surgery?
Also known as orthognathic surgery, jaw surgery corrects misalignment between the upper and lower jaws when orthodontics alone is not enough. The goal is to reposition the jaws to improve bite function, facial harmony, and airway health.
Conditions that may require jaw surgery include:
- Severe overbite or underbite
- Open bite (teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed)
- Jaw misalignment due to trauma or birth defects
- Obstructive sleep apnea related to jaw position
- TMJ disorder and jaw joint dysfunction
- Facial asymmetry or imbalance
Our oral surgeons work in close coordination with your orthodontist to determine the ideal timing and treatment plan.
What to Expect from the Surgical Process
Evaluation and Planning
During your initial consultation, we perform a full clinical evaluation, take digital impressions, and use cone-beam CT scans to create a precise 3D model of your jaw and facial structure.
Pre-Surgical Orthodontics
Braces or aligners are typically used before surgery to align your teeth and prepare for the new bite position.
Surgical Procedure
Corrective oral and maxillofacial surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Depending on your diagnosis, we may reposition the upper jaw, lower jaw, chin, or a combination.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Most patients return to light activities within two weeks. Full recovery, including bite stabilization and final orthodontic refinement, can take several months. We monitor healing closely and coordinate care with your orthodontist throughout the process.
Why Choose Gateway Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons?
As a leading provider of oral surgery in St. Louis MO, our practice offers:
- Board-certified surgeons with expertise in jaw and facial reconstruction
- Advanced 3D imaging for treatment planning
- Personalized surgical protocols based on your anatomy and goals
- A patient-first environment where comfort and clarity are priorities
- Convenient access from throughout Greater St. Louis
Whether you’ve been referred by an orthodontist or are exploring options on your own, our team will walk you through every step with precision and care.
Related Procedures
Jaw surgery may be performed alongside or following other treatments, such as:
- Tooth extractions for orthodontic spacing
- Bone grafting if bone loss is present
- Dental implants to replace missing teeth after alignment
We’ll discuss the full scope of your needs during your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jaw Surgery
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How do I know if I need corrective jaw surgery?
If you have difficulty chewing, speaking, breathing during sleep, or notice facial imbalance, jaw surgery may be needed. Our surgeons will evaluate your bite, jaw alignment, and airway health to determine whether surgery is appropriate.
What’s the difference between orthodontics and jaw surgery?
Orthodontics (like braces or aligners) can straighten teeth, but they can’t correct misaligned jaws. Jaw surgery repositions the upper and/or lower jaws when alignment issues are skeletal rather than dental.
Is jaw surgery painful?
Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort in the first few days, which is managed with medication. Our team provides detailed post-operative instructions and follow-up care to support a smooth recovery.
How long is the recovery process after jaw surgery?
Initial healing takes about two weeks, but full recovery — including final bite adjustment and orthodontic completion — may take several months. We monitor healing closely at regular post-surgical visits.
Will I need to stay overnight in the hospital?
In some cases, jaw surgery is performed at an outpatient surgical center. For more complex cases, or based on medical history, a short hospital stay may be recommended.
Can you coordinate with my orthodontist?
Yes. We regularly work with orthodontists throughout Greater St. Louis to ensure the surgical phase of your orthodontic plan is executed with precision and collaboration.
Schedule a Jaw Surgery Consultation
If you’ve been diagnosed with a skeletal bite problem or facial imbalance, corrective surgery may be the solution. At Gateway Oral Surgery, we serve patients from Clayton, St. Louis, and across the metro area with skilled, personalized care.