is jaw surgery to correct an underbite worth it?

Question

how much pain is involved? what are the long term risks? any negatives to the surgery?

my orthodontist told me that the ideal treatment for my underbite is jaw surgery, but that I can choose to have 2 of my permanent pre-molars pulled out so he can shift my bottom teeth behind my top.....is this a good way to go?
what's better? losing 2 permanent teeth or going through jaw surgery?

i'm scared of jaw surgery but i also don't want to lose real teeth....what to do....

i have a class I malocussion...what does that mean?

Answer 1

First: overbites and underbites are VERY different. Most people have an overbite, and it's what you want. Underbites are often very, very difficult to correct. You are lucky because it sounds like you have 2 good choices from which to pick.

Surgical correction of an underbite (class III occlusion) is very successful. To determine if this is what you actually want to do, ask for a few things:

1. Ask the orthodontist to show you, on your dental models, what each treatment would likely look like. (He can modify the models to give you an idea of what the "finished product" will look like). This will give you a better idea of how each treatment "solves" the problem.

2. Ask the orthodontist what surgeon you'd be referred to, and talk to that person as well.

3. Ask the Oral Surgeon for the name of a patient who has gone through the surgical procedure. She will not think you are weird. It is a reasonable request, and one that she can likely accomodate pretty easily.

You want to make an informed decision, based on what you feel most comfortable with. Do not rule out surgery simply because it sounds scary and painful. Rule it out because you don't think it's the right solution for you, whatever the reason.

Answer 2

Underbite Surgery

Answer 3

Okay...here is an answer from someone who was (is) in the same boat! I had an underbite when I was little and the orthodontist told my mother that my jaw would have to be "broken" to fix it. My mother couldn't bear the thought, so we opted to pull 4 teeth, and angle my top teeth to go over and in front of my bottom teeth. That was 1975, and I have paid for it ever since and am now spending a lot of time and money trying to figure out how to fix this WITHOUT breaking my jaw. You see, I didn't really have enough room in my mouth to do this right and my teeth have been banging together for years. My teeth have ALWAYS been loose because of this, but now that I am older, my gums don't like it so much and are not "holding on" like they used to. ANYWAY... here are some questions to consider... FIRST... if pulling two teeth will really provide enough room to let your top teeth be in front without bashing together -- DEFINITELY go that way. However, remember that you will have to get your wisdom teeth cut out before they grow in (if you don't have them yet) to keep your bite right. IF, on the other hand, your upper part of your front teeth and roots will be at a severe angle to get them out in front -- trust me -- don't do it! Get a couple of opinions -- most orthodontists will give you a free consultation. Once one does x-rays, get copies and carry them around with you.

Feel free to send an email if you want to discuss this further. My hubby checks this account frequently, and will happily forward to me. Good luck to you!

Answer 4

For the best answers, search on this site https://shorturl.im/axYj8

There is no "hard and fast" time. More to the point, it sounds like you have some anxiety about your procedure. Answers is not the place to get the answers you need. You should go back to the surgeon who is going to help you, and talk with them, asking all the questions you may have about the procedure, the anesthesia, and anything else that is bothering you. Your surgeon will answer the questions. If he/she does not, get a second opinion from a qualified surgeon. The opinions of the typical Answers participant simply are not worth much in a situation like this. Good luck! Your surgery should go smoothly, once you get over the jitters...

Answer 5

Malocclusion means your top and bottom teeth don't align correctly when you bite down. It will cause your teeth to wear un-evenly and can make it hard to eat. It can also cause jaw pain because your jaws are constantly shifting to get into the correct position to chew. I, personally, would probably go for the surgery. Yes, post operatively speaking, you will be uncomfortable for a while- but some people's facial profiles receed as they get older when permanent teeth are removed. I know people who have gone both ways and seeing the results, I would choose surgery. I worked for dentists and orthodontists for 6 years. I've seen several cases...good luck!

Answer 6

The first thing you need to do is go for a consultation with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. That doctor will be able to evaluate your bite and discuss in detail your options. The surgeon will also be able to go over all risks and benefits of surgery. My patients seem to be uncomfortable for about a week, but pain medication is given and once the results are evident, the pain is forgotten. You really need to talk to the surgeon you are considering - that will relieve most of your concerns. Also, most surgeons will gladly give you the name of another patient that has had the same procedure done and you can contact them for their take on things. Whatever your decision, good luck!

Answer 7

if the surgeon is good there is nothing to worry about.the pain level will be 8 out of 10 or so for about a weak but will then begin to dissipate. in about 3 months you will begin to forget the pain and have a whole new look to think about instead.... ..if you have no confidence in the surgeon then get a second opinion. .. and not in answers!

Answer 8

Id go with getting teeth pulled it barley even hurts!!<3

Answer 9

I agree with Shakespare

Answer 10

if the underbite makes you look like a goon, then i say it is worth it