Jaw surgery is more common than most people think. For many teens and adults, certain bite issues, chronic pain, or visible facial imbalances can’t be fixed with braces alone. These are often signs that the jaw itself isn’t positioned correctly. In these cases, jaw surgery becomes a necessary step toward improving oral function and overall quality of life.
People often live with symptoms for years, assuming they’re normal or just part of how their face developed. But the truth is, corrective procedures like orthognathic surgery in Bloomington IL are designed to fix these issues safely and effectively. Spotting the signs early can make a big difference in how well you respond to treatment.
Learn the seven signs that could point to a need for jaw surgery. If any of them sound familiar, it may be time to consult with an orthodontic or surgical specialist.
What Is Jaw Surgery and Who Typically Needs It?
Jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a corrective procedure performed to realign the upper and lower jaws. It’s used when someone’s bite or jaw position causes functional problems—chewing, speaking, or even breathing. It can also be recommended for people who are unhappy with their facial appearance due to misalignment.
Most people who need this procedure have already tried orthodontic solutions, like braces, with limited success. Some patients have a visible overbite or underbite that doesn’t improve with braces alone. Others may suffer from jaw pain, speech challenges, or facial asymmetry that points to a deeper structural issue.
Specialists who perform orthognathic surgery in Bloomington IL often work with orthodontists to evaluate jaw positioning over time. Teens are sometimes monitored through growth spurts to see if correction is needed later. Adults, on the other hand, may be referred after years of discomfort or difficulty with chewing and biting.
Common candidates include:
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Adults who still struggle with bite issues after orthodontic care
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Teens with jaw growth problems that braces can’t fix alone
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People with visible facial imbalance or chronic jaw pain
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Those experiencing sleep-related breathing problems are linked to jaw position
Jaw surgery is not a quick fix. However, for the right candidate, it can dramatically improve comfort, function, and appearance.
Top 7 Signs You Might Need Corrective Jaw Surgery
Not all jaw issues are easy to spot. Some symptoms build gradually and get brushed off as minor discomforts. But if they persist or interfere with your daily life, they may point to a structural problem. Here are seven signs that may indicate a need for jaw surgery.
1. Chronic Jaw Pain or TMJ Problems
Constant pain in your jaw joints, especially near your ears, can signal a problem with how your jaw is aligned. You might notice clicking or popping sounds, stiffness, or soreness when talking or chewing. Some people also report jaw locking or headaches that seem connected to muscle tension in the jaw area.
2. Difficulty Chewing, Biting, or Swallowing
If eating feels uncomfortable or you avoid certain foods because of jaw pain, that’s a red flag. A poorly aligned jaw can make it hard for your teeth to come together properly, making chewing uneven or even painful. You may also struggle to swallow comfortably due to how your jaw and throat muscles interact.
3. Facial Imbalance or Noticeable Asymmetry
When one side of your face looks different from the other or your chin appears too far forward or back, it may be more than cosmetic. Jaw alignment plays a big role in facial balance. These issues are often the result of uneven jaw growth or positioning and might not improve without surgery.
4. Breathing Through the Mouth or Sleep Issues
Mouth breathing, snoring, or waking up frequently at night can all be tied to how your jaw sits. A narrow upper jaw or a lower jaw that sits too far back can block your airway, leading to poor sleep quality. In some cases, jaw surgery helps open the airway to improve breathing and reduce sleep-related issues.
5. Speech Difficulties
Struggling with speech sounds, especially lisping or unclear pronunciation, can sometimes be linked to jaw misalignment. If speech therapy hasn’t helped, the shape and function of your jaw may need to be addressed first.
6. Bite Problems That Braces Can’t Correct
You might already have had braces in Bloomington IL, but still deal with an overbite, underbite, or open bite. If your teeth don’t come together properly even after orthodontic care, the issue could be with your jaw’s position, not your teeth.
7. Abnormal Jaw Growth in Kids or Teens
When caught early, signs of jaw growth problems in children can sometimes be managed by an orthodontist. But in more severe cases, a pediatric orthodontist in Bloomington, IL, may recommend monitoring for future corrective surgery. This is often the case when the upper and lower jaws develop at different rates or angles.
Recognising these signs is the first step toward getting the correct diagnosis and care. If any of these issues apply to you or your child, it may be time to explore your treatment options.
What Happens During Orthognathic Surgery?
Jaw surgery isn’t something you walk into overnight. It involves careful planning, multiple specialists, and a structured timeline. Still, for patients dealing with chronic discomfort, bite problems, or facial imbalance, the long-term benefits can be significant.
Orthognathic surgery Bloomington IL professionals typically work alongside your orthodontist to ensure every step is mapped out before any procedure begins. Here’s a closer look at what the whole process usually involves.
Step-by-Step Breakdown:
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1. Initial Consultation and Imaging
Your treatment begins with a complete evaluation. This includes digital X-rays, 3D scans, and bite analysis. Your team will check how your upper and lower jaws fit together and identify areas that need correction. -
2. Pre-Surgical Orthodontics
Most patients wear braces for 12–18 months before surgery. This step ensures that your teeth are aligned correctly, making the surgical outcome more precise. If you’ve already had braces in Bloomington, IL, your orthodontist may re-evaluate or continue with adjustments before moving forward. -
3. Surgical Procedure
The actual surgery is performed in a hospital setting, often under general anaesthesia. The oral surgeon repositions the jawbones as needed—this could mean moving the upper jaw forward, lowering the lower jaw, or both. Small plates, screws, or wires are used to secure the bones in place. -
4. Recovery Phase
After surgery, you may stay in the hospital for 1–2 days. Swelling and mild discomfort are expected, and a soft-food diet is recommended for several weeks. Most people return to school or work within two to three weeks. -
5. Post-Surgical Orthodontic Care
Once healing begins, your orthodontist will fine-tune your bite using braces or aligners. This stage usually lasts another 6–12 months, depending on how your teeth settle. -
6. Long-Term Monitoring
Follow-up appointments help track healing and ensure your jaw and bite remain stable. Most patients continue with periodic checkups even after braces are removed.
This process requires commitment, but many patients report improvements not just in appearance, but in how they eat, speak, and sleep. When non-surgical options fall short, jaw surgery can offer long-term, lasting results.
Who Performs Jaw Surgery and When to Consult One
Corrective jaw surgery requires a team approach. It’s not done by a general dentist or orthodontist alone. Instead, it’s usually handled by a specialist trained in surgical procedures involving the jaw, face, and skull.
Who You’ll Work With
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Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
These are the medical professionals who actually perform jaw surgery. They’re trained in the surgical correction of jaw alignment and facial structure. Many of them work closely with orthodontists to plan treatment before and after surgery. -
Orthodontists
Braces or aligners are almost always part of the process. If you’re currently in treatment with braces in Bloomington, IL, and your orthodontist notices bite problems that can’t be corrected with appliances alone, they may refer you to a surgeon. -
Pediatric Orthodontists
If the patient is a child or teen, a pediatric orthodontist in Bloomington, IL, might flag early jaw growth concerns. They monitor development over time to decide if surgery may be needed in the future.
When to Schedule a Consultation
You should consider meeting with a jaw specialist if:
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You experience pain in your jaw or have trouble chewing
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You’ve had orthodontic treatment, but still have bite issues
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Your jaw makes clicking or popping sounds regularly
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Your face appears uneven,or your chin feels too far back or forward
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You’ve been told your sleep issues may be related to jaw structure
Consultations are usually non-invasive and involve digital imaging, a bite exam, and a review of your dental and medical history. From there, the team can determine if jaw surgery is the right path or if other treatments should be considered first.
Life After Corrective Jaw Surgery: What to Expect
Recovery from jaw surgery takes time, but many patients find the results well worth the effort. Improved bite function, reduced pain, and a more balanced appearance are just a few of the long-term benefits. Knowing what to expect after the procedure can help you prepare and stay on track throughout the healing process.
Immediate Post-Surgery Phase
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Swelling and Discomfort
Swelling is normal and usually peaks around the third day. Pain is manageable with prescribed medication. Cold compresses help reduce inflammation. -
Diet Changes
You’ll need to stick to soft foods at first, think mashed potatoes, smoothies, soups, and yoghurt. Depending on healing progress, some patients gradually transition to solid foods over 6–8 weeks. -
Speech and Movement Limitations
Talking may feel uncomfortable at first. Jaw movement is limited while the bones stabilise. Surgeons typically recommend avoiding strenuous activity and allowing yourself to rest during the first couple of weeks.
Returning to Daily Life
Most people can go back to school or work in about two to three weeks, though some prefer taking more time off. Regular follow-ups will track your healing and adjust any orthodontic appliances as needed.
Long-Term Benefits
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More efficient chewing and biting
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Clearer speech in many cases
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Relief from jaw pain or TMJ symptoms
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Better sleep due to improved airway support
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A more symmetrical facial profile
Helpful Tips for Recovery
Here are a few things to keep in mind during the healing process:
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Keep up with oral hygiene using a soft brush and rinse
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Avoid foods that are sticky, hard, or require heavy chewing
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Follow your surgeon’s post-op instructions closely
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Stay consistent with orthodontic visits if you’re still wearing braces
It’s a gradual journey, but the changes can be life-changing. Once healing is complete, many patients report improved confidence, comfort, and overall oral health.
Final Thoughts: Is Jaw Surgery Right for You?
Deciding to move forward with jaw surgery is a big step. But for many people, it’s the most effective way to fix persistent issues that haven’t improved with braces, appliances, or time. If you’ve been dealing with daily discomfort, bite problems, or visible imbalance, this treatment may offer the long-term solution you’ve been looking for.
Jaw surgery can correct how your teeth and jaws work together. It can also improve how your face looks and how you feel overall. Patients who have gone through the process often say the results are worth the recovery period.
You don’t have to figure it out alone. Orthodontists and surgeons in your area can evaluate your symptoms and help you understand what’s possible. If you’ve had braces in Bloomington, IL, and still struggle with bite alignment—or if your child is showing signs of jaw growth issues—don’t wait to explore your options.
Getting answers early can significantly improve your outcome. The first step is a simple consultation to determine whether jaw surgery is the right fit for your needs.
Take the First Step Toward a Healthier, Balanced Smile
If you’ve been dealing with bite problems, jaw discomfort, or symptoms that suggest a misaligned jaw, it might be time to explore your treatment options. At Bowers Orthodontic Specialists, we’re here to help you understand what’s causing the issue and guide you toward the most effective solution, including jaw surgery when appropriate.
Our team takes the time to listen, evaluate, and build a personalised care plan that suits your needs. With over 15 years of experience and a focus on comfort and precision, Dr. Bowers and our staff are committed to giving you the confidence that comes with lasting results.
Contact Bowers Orthodontic Specialists today to schedule a consultation and find out how we can help you feel better, function better, and smile with confidence.
