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Question:
I am 28 and I have an overbite. My previous dentist took some teeth out and gave me a basic brace which has resulted in my top teeth now going inwards.
I have been to my dentist today who advised me that to correct the problem, I will not just need braces but I will also have to have my jaw broken.
Is this common and how long would the recovery period be? Can you also tell me of any possible side effects:- scars etc.? How successful is this operation and does it lead to problems in later life? Thanking you in anticipation. ...Visitor from Birmingham, England UK
Answer:
I hope you're getting advice from a specialist, who is an orthodontist regarding your bite. If you need an operation to align your jaws, there are no scars, as everything is done inside your mouth.
As far as healing, it depends on the oral surgeon who performs the operation. There are two ways to do this operation, aligning the jaws using fixed hardware, with this, you get immediate function in a few days or tying your jaws 'shut' for several weeks.
You should discuss this thoroughly with your orthodontist and oral surgeon
Edward Leventhal, DDS
Baltimore Cosmetic Implant Dentistry
8860 Belair Road
Baltimore, MD 21236
(410) 256-7300
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