What Is Corrective Jaw Surgery?
Jaw correction surgery (orthognathic surgery) is an advanced oral surgery designed to address misalignments that affect both your bite and the appearance of your smile. Whether you're dealing with an overbite, underbite, or crooked jaw, Dr. Sergio Pausa specializes in realigning the upper and lower jaw to restore function and enhance facial appearance. This surgery not only improves how your mouth functions, making it easier to chew and speak, but also relieves pain caused by jaw misalignment, headaches, and discomfort. Contact Joe Pausa, DMD, in Alpharetta, GA to learn how corrective jaw surgery can help improve your dental health and quality of life.
How Does Jaw Correction Surgery Work?
Dr. Pausa will begin by conducting a thorough consultation and taking digital x-rays of your mouth to determine the best surgical approach. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and can take several hours due to the complexity of manipulating bone and cartilage. Dr. Pausa will create minor incisions inside your mouth, leaving no visible scars. He will then make cuts in your jawbone to reposition it and secure it with surgical plates, screws, and wires. In some cases, bone grafts may be needed to enlarge your jaw and support the new alignment.
The corrective jaw surgery recovery timeline typically spans 3 – 6 months. Swelling and discomfort are common during the first week, and you'll need to follow a soft food diet to avoid damage or irritation to the surgery site. Dr. Pausa will guide you through each stage to achieve the best results.
What Are the Benefits of Corrective Jaw Surgery?
Beyond just improving your appearance, orthognathic surgery at Joe Pausa, DMD, can relieve pain, improve function, and give you the confidence to smile without hesitation. Here are some of the key benefits of corrective jaw surgery:
- Restores proper jaw alignment for easier chewing, speaking, and breathing
- Relieves chronic jaw pain, headaches, and discomfort caused by misalignment
- Enhances facial appearance by correcting a crooked jaw or protruding chin
- Provides a long-term solution for malocclusion and jaw abnormalities
- Can achieve results when traditional orthodontics aren't enough
- Reduces the risk of tooth wear, gum damage, and future dental complications
- Improves overall quality of life by increasing comfort, function, and confidence
Insurance may cover corrective jaw surgery if it's medically necessary to address issues like difficulty chewing, speaking, or jaw pain. Our friendly office staff will review your coverage and assist you in gathering any necessary paperwork for your claim.
Who is a candidate for corrective jaw surgery?
Corrective jaw surgery is recommended for patients whose jaw alignment affects function, comfort, or facial balance. It is often considered when orthodontic treatment alone cannot fully address the issue. Candidacy depends on skeletal structure, symptoms, and overall health. In general, you may be a candidate for corrective jaw surgery if you are experiencing:
- Bite problems
- Jaw pain
- Difficulty chewing
- Speech concerns
- Facial asymmetry
Patients should be in good overall health and committed to the treatment process. Our team will evaluate both functional concerns and structural alignment to determine if surgery is appropriate.
S. Joseph Pausa, D.M.D. Reviews
Dr. Pausa and the entire staff were amazing!! The front desk ladies are incredibly sweet and extremely helpful! The nurses make you feel so comfortable and at ease throughout your visit!! Everyone was kind, professional and genuinely caring. I had a wonderful experience from start to finish and highly recommend this office to anyone looking for exceptional care! Susan Bronner
I could not ask for a better oral surgeon! Dr. Pausa is compassionate and explains in detail the procedure recommended. Highly recommend! His staff is pretty awesome too☺️ (I traveled 2 hours each way to see Dr. Pausa!)
Very pleasant & highly skilled! Great combination!! Thanks
Very good experience
What a great practice! From the front office staff to the caring medical team. I’ve had two procedures in this office. Dr. Pausa and staff are top notch!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is corrective jaw surgery painful?
You’ll be under general anesthesia during the procedure, so you won’t feel pain during surgery. Discomfort during recovery is normal but manageable with prescribed medication. Dr. Pausa and his team in Alpharetta, GA are available to guide you through the healing process and ensure a smooth recovery.
Will I need orthodontic treatment with jaw surgery?
In many cases, orthodontic treatment is needed before and after surgery to help align the teeth properly. Dr. Pausa works closely with your orthodontist throughout your treatment process to ensure the best possible outcome.
How long does it take to recover from corrective jaw surgery?
Initial healing typically takes about 6–8 weeks, but full recovery may take several months. Dr. Pausa provides detailed post-op instructions to help manage swelling, discomfort, and diet modifications during this time. Follow-up visits at his Alpharetta, GA office help monitor your healing progress.
Address Overbites, Underbites, and More
If you're dealing with jaw misalignment or related issues, corrective jaw surgery offers a path to lasting relief and improved function. Dr. Pausa will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses both cosmetic concerns and functional challenges. Contact Joe Pausa, DMD, in Alpharetta, GA today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a more comfortable, confident smile.