Face and Jaw Surgery Center

Any pain in the facial area is difficult to deal with, particularly if it is severe, frequent and interferes with your daily life. Jaw pain, a common complaint from men and women of varying ages, is especially challenging, as the discomfort may indicate one or more different conditions. In order to find sustainable relief for continuous jaw pain, it is first necessary to determine the cause of the sensation.

Analyze the Symptoms

Though your licensed healthcare professional is the only person who can definitively diagnose the condition behind the pain you are experiencing, there are some signs you can identify yourself in analyzing possible causes. In order to formulate a baseline for your oral surgeon, record your answers to the following questions:

• How would you describe the pain specifically? Is it sharp, dull, aching, throbbing, or pinching?
• Is the pain constant or does it only present itself when you eat, speak, etc.?
• How long has the jaw pain been present?
• Was there any injury or particular event that immediately preceded the pain?
• Is there any history of chronic jaw or joint pain in your family?
• Do you notice any popping or clicking noises when you move your bottom jaw?
• Have you ever been told that you grind your teeth while you sleep?
• Have you ever been diagnosed with arthritis?
• Have you had any recent dental work or surgery performed?
• Do you ever experience headaches or neck aches in addition to the jaw pain?

Compiling this information for your oral surgeon will make it easier for him or her to accurately diagnose the condition that is causing your jaw pain.

Potential Jaw Conditions of Consideration

Temporomandibular joint disorders, or TMJ disorders, include a number of medical problems that directly affect the joint that hinges the bottom jaw to the skull. Examining x-rays of your skull and jaw, along with an assessment of your symptoms, will allow your oral surgeon to develop a treatment plan specifically tailored to your needs.

There are three main categories of TMJ disorders widely accepted in the field of dentistry. These are myofascial pain, arthritis and internal joint derangement.

• Myofascial pain – This is the most commonly cited TMJ disorder. It affects the muscle groups that are directly responsible for the support and movement of joints and bone structures in the body. Most often, the affected patient reports a constant ache that is exacerbated by pressure and movement. Stiffness may diminish range of movement, making it difficult and painful to eat or speak. Pain is frequently unresponsive to ice, heat and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications.
• Arthritis – In patients who suffer from osteoarthritis, jaw discomfort can quickly become severe without treatment. The synovial fluid that surrounds the temporomandibular joint is not able to properly lubricate the jaw’s hinge due to persistent inflammation. Popping may occur during yawning on one or both sides of the skull. Patients with arthritis and TMJ pain have reported a limited range of motion due to the swelling in and around the joint itself.
• Internal joint derangement – An articular disc made of strong and flexible cartilage facilitates the rotation of the temporomandibular joint. If this disc is displaced at any point during the opening or closing of the mouth, the ball and socket of the joint push on the surrounding tissues and nerves, causing severe pain.

Though TMJ disorders cause everything from mild discomfort to extreme pain, there are solutions to the problem. Inform your dentist of any symptoms you have that may indicate a problem with your temporomandibular joint in order to begin a treatment plan that targets your pain.

Face and Jaw Surgery Center serves all of North Dakota and North West Minnesota including Moorhead, MN and East Grand Forks, MN

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An intriguing connection in the world of medical research has spurred a number of case studies on the subject of gum disease and arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis, also known as RA, affects approximately 1.5 million adults in America. This debilitating autoimmune disease causes inflammation within the joints, resulting in intense pain, diminished flexibility and, in some cases, damage to the surrounding bone.

Periodontal disease refers to advanced bacterial infection of the gums. It generally follows gingivitis that is left untreated for an extended period of time. If allowed to continue without professional treatment, severe gum disease can lead to dramatic recession of the gums, tooth loss and damage to the bones of the jaw.

The Inflammation Connection

While the precise nature of the link between these two diseases is still under research, some facts have emerged that connect them through the bacteria involved. Sufferers of RA who also reported periodontal disease were studied in an effort to pinpoint the connection.

In a study conducted by a research facility at Case Western Reserve University, the harmful bacteria found in the mouths of certain patients was traced to the synovial fluid that provides lubrication for the flexing of the knee. Because the kneecap area was already in a compromised state due to the RA, the bacteria that originated in the gums was able to more easily and efficiently reside there, attacking healthy and potentially making the pain of the arthritis more severe.

Researchers continue to examine the evidence gleaned from this and similar cases, as well as conduct additional studies, to determine whether or not one condition can be said to cause the other. At this point, it is clear that the connection does, in fact, exist and that the precautions and treatment for periodontal disease should be strongly recommended for patients with RA.

Avoiding Periodontal Disease and Its Affects on RA Patients

The results of these studies serves to further strengthen the argument that advanced gum disease does affect other areas of the body, such as the cardiovascular system and digestive system. The emphasis on proper oral hygiene has become a key component in treatment plans for arthritis sufferers in an effort to decrease their joint pain and fatigue overall.

In order to cater more specifically to the oral health needs of arthritis sufferers, the American Dental Association offers these tips for a more effective hygiene routine:

• Because flossing and brushing properly can be exceedingly difficult for people with arthritic joints in their hands, the ADA suggests modifying the type of toothbrush used. A quality, dentist-approved electric brush with a larger handle allows for a better grip and can clean teeth and gums effectively without as many rigorous up-and-down motions
• Rather than floss the traditional way with the floss wrapped around fingers, RA patients are encouraged to try angled floss holders instead. These plastic devices are affordable and can be found at most drugstores and grocery stores
• An RA patient, whose immune system experiences difficulty in differentiating between healthy cells and a threat, needs extra more oral protection than a healthy individual. A mouthwash with fluoride, used two to three times per day, can help keep bacteria at bay and fight tooth decay
• Avoid smoking. Smokers are much more likely to develop gum disease as well as a host of other medical conditions

Talk to your dentist about your RA. He or she will be able to tell you more about the ways you can protect yourself from periodontal disease, thereby potentially improving your overall sense of health and well being.

Face and Jaw Surgery Center serves all of North Dakota and North West Minnesota including Moorhead, MN and East Grand Forks, MN

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Nearly everyone, at least once, is likely to experience the pain, inconvenience and worry of a toothache at some point in their lives. Pain in the mouth is particularly difficult to ignore, especially when it is severe enough to distract you from your daily activities. When it hurts to eat, drink, speak or even breathe, the problem has already been allowed to continue for too long.

Determine the Cause Behind the Pain

While the term “toothache” is used in a general way when referring to pain in or around a tooth, there are actually different types of this common problem. Some of the most common include the following:

• Cracked tooth – If the application of pressure to one or more teeth causes a deep, sharp pain, the tooth may be cracked and irritating the nerves beneath the gums. Depending on the location and severity of the crack, the dentist may opt for a dental filling, a crown or extraction and replacement with an implant. The latter solution is only used in extremely serious cases in which the tooth is so badly cracked that it cannot be saved.
• Exposed nerve – Extreme sensitivity to sweet or sour food, cold or hot beverages, or even air being drawn in when you inhale are all symptoms of a potentially exposed nerve. If an old filling or crown is cracked, fluids, oxygen, food particles and bacteria are given free access to the very sensitive nerve endings inside the tooth. This pain is also associated with advanced cavities. The dentist will seal the hole or crack after ensuring that the nerve itself has not become infected or treating it if it has.
• Abscess – a dentist must address this serious condition and the severe pain for which it is well known as soon as possible. The build-up of pus contained within the root of the tooth must be able to flow out freely in order to relieve pain and prevent further infection.
• Bruxism – Persistent grinding of the teeth, usually at night, can cause pain that radiates through the jaw and into teeth throughout the mouth. The pain is generally more acute in the molars, as this is where the most pressure is applied when the teeth grind together. An oral mouth guard, worn at night, can help stop the involuntary grinding action. Your dentist will determine the most effective method of treatment for your bruxism.

All of these are indicative of a problem and should be evaluated immediately by a licensed dental professional.

Treatment for Toothaches

Many toothache sufferers anticipate even more discomfort and intense anxiety when they visit their dentist. Instead of facing the problem in a timely manner, they wait and avoid thinking about what may happen if they do schedule the appointment. They think that, if they wait it out, the pain will eventually subside on its own.

The fact is, however, that serious complications can arise in cases of a toothache that is ignored for any extended period of time. Consequences of waiting to address certain problems may include more painful, costly treatments or even the necessary extraction of the tooth, depending on how severely it is damaged.

In most cases, extraction is not necessary. The cause of the pain will be determined through the use of a visual exam as well as x-ray imaging. When the dentist diagnoses the problem and develops a treatment plan, it may include the use of fillings, dental appliances, crowns or an improved oral hygiene regimen, depending on the cause of the pain.

Face and Jaw Surgery Center serves all of North Dakota and North West Minnesota including Moorhead, MN and East Grand Forks, MN

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Fargo, ND office

Grand Forks, ND office

Minot, ND office

Patients who have undergone oral surgeryrequire special nourishment during recovery in order to ensure proper healing and good general health in the weeks and months following surgery. During this time, the body’s nutritional needs change dramatically as it works to heal, but certain oral surgery procedures may make it difficult to consume the appropriate types and amounts of food. These tips for keeping your body nourished after surgery are provided by licensed oral and maxillofacial surgeons.

Stay Hydrated

The most crucial element of any post-surgery diet is water. The body cannot function or heal properly following surgery without an adequate supply of water. Patients should consume at least eight glasses of water per day, taking care to follow their surgeon’s orders regarding how to drink. Unless otherwise advised, straws should be avoided for the first few days.

Surgeries that Require a Liquid Diet

Surgeries that treat facial fractures, problems with the temporomandibular joint or jaw problems may require that a patient adhere to a strict liquid diet for several days following the procedure. This ensures proper healing and decreased discomfort during recovery.

Because the average adult’s calorie and protein needs increase after surgery, it is often challenging to consume adequate nourishment in liquid form. Milk, protein shakes, pureed foods and other liquid supplements are easier to consume while surgical sites are healing, especially if swelling and pain are present. It is important to ensure that your body receives the appropriate amount of calories and vitamins to remain healthy throughout the recovery period. Your oral and maxillofacial surgeon will provide you with information regarding the types and consistencies of nutritional supplements that are appropriate for your particular circumstances.

Solid Foods Following Oral Surgery

Even if a liquid diet is not required, your oral surgeon may recommend a semi-solid diet for several days or weeks after your procedure. The types of foods included in this diet require minimal chewing and movement of the jaw, which aids in faster healing and improved comfort. Some foods commonly suggested include the following:

• Soft, flaky fish, such as tilapia or cod, without breading
• Scrambled eggs
• Very well-cooked pastas
• Yogurt
• Oatmeal
• Soup or broth
• Mashed potatoes
• Creamed corn
• Cream of wheat

Depending on the type of oral surgery performed, this diet may be recommended for up to six or more weeks after the procedure. Your oral surgeon’s primary concern is the proper healing of your surgical sites, so following his or her specific instructions is extremely important. Adhering to a surgeon-recommended liquid or soft food diet will help to promote a faster, more comfortable recovery.

Face and Jaw Surgery Center serves all of North Dakota and North West Minnesota including Moorhead, MN and East Grand Forks, MN

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A mouth guard is a dental device worn to protect the teeth and gums from trauma while playing sports or other recreational activities. A night guard is a mouth guard specifically designed to prevent bruxism, or grinding of the teeth, while sleeping. Both types of guards must be properly and frequently cleaned in order to prevent the growth of bacteria, yeast and fungus, all of which can lead to oral disease if not promptly addressed.

Mouth Guard Care and Cleaning

Proper maintenance and care of a mouth guard play a key role in preventing contamination and infection. Dental professionals strongly recommend that their patients with mouth guards follow these guidelines to keep their teeth and gums healthy:

• Avoid biting and chewing the mouth guard, as this may create indentations where bacteria may grow
• Always brush and floss teeth thoroughly before and after wearing the mouth guard
• Keep all mouth guards separate from other sporting equipment or accessories to minimize the risk of contamination
• After every use, wash the mouth guard with lukewarm, soapy water (very hot water may distort its shape)
• Before replacing the mouth guard into its case, soak in mouthwash to prevent bacteria growth
• Ensure that the mouth guard’s case is ventilated to prevent mold growth inside
• Never share a mouth guard with another person

Consequences of Improper or Infrequent Cleaning

Publicized case studies determine that mouth guards should be sanitized on a daily basis in order to avoid possible bacteria growth and oral disease. Athletic and recreational mouth guards demonstrate potential for acute contamination illness when not properly cleaned daily. Symptoms of mouth disease and general illness associated with a contaminated mouth guard include:

• Tooth decay
• Recession of gums
• Gum disease
• Oral lesions
• Bacterial infection, which may cause fever, nausea, wheezing and diarrhea
• Staph infections, which may spread to the lungs and heart

Certain types of fungus and bacteria may also affect existing wounds, such as those sustained during physical activity. Individuals who experience these or any other unusual symptoms are encouraged to contact their dentist as soon as possible for a full oral evaluation.

The wide range of health issues that occur due to improperly cleaned mouth guards can be prevented entirely with the right disinfection techniques. If you or your child uses a mouth guard on a regular basis and have questions regarding its proper use or cleaning procedures, ask your dentist for detailed information on how to prevent oral disease and other health problems with a regular disinfection regimen.

Face and Jaw Surgery Center serves all of North Dakota and North West Minnesota including Moorhead, MN and East Grand Forks, MN

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According to the National Cancer Institute, oral cancer is defined as the development of malignant cells that destroy healthy tissue in one or more areas of the mouth, including the tongue, cheeks, lips, sinuses, throat, the floor of the mouth and both the soft and hard palates. Oral cancer, if not treated in a timely manner, can lead to death.

Symptoms of Oral Cancer

Depending on the severity of the cancer, symptoms vary among sufferers. The most common symptoms include the following:

• Lumps or thickening of the tissue in the cheeks, lips or other areas of the mouth or throat
• Rough or crusty patches on or inside the lips that do not go away
• Soft patches within the mouth that are red, white or a combination of both
• Unusual bleeding anywhere within the oral cavity or sinuses
• Unusual tingling, pain or loss of sensation in the mouth, face or throat
• Sores in the mouth or on the neck that bleed or produce fluid and resist treatment for more than two weeks
• Unexplained change in alignment of teeth or jaws
• Persistent hoarseness that causes difficulty swallowing or talking
• Unusual pain in the ears or back of the throat

While some of these symptoms may be indicative of a condition other than oral cancer, they should be taken seriously and reported to a dental or medical health professional as soon as possible.

Who is at Risk for Oral Cancer?

The American Cancer Society reports that men are twice as likely as women to develop oral cancer and that the highest risk affects men over 50. The most frequently observed risk factors for oral cancer include the following:

• Smoking cigarettes, cigars or pipes
• Chewing tobacco, dipping or using snuff
• Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol
• Having at least one family member who was diagnosed with oral cancer
• Failing to take proper precautions to protect against sun damage

Outlook for Patients Diagnosed with Oral Cancer

The one year survival rate for oral cancer patients is 81 percent while the five year survival rate is 56 percent. These statistics serve to provide further proof that early diagnosis is key to successful treatment and recovery. Individuals who visit their dentist regularly for routine exams are in a better position to detect the early signs of oral cancer, such as irregularities within the mouth or unusual lumps in the throat.

During your exam, your dentist will perform an initial screening, checking for these and other symptoms of oral cancer. If the potential development of cancer is suspected, a biopsy may be ordered to determine whether or not harmful cells are present. If tests are positive, a treatment plan will be formulated immediately in order to prevent the further development and spread of cancerous cells.

Treatment of Oral Cancer

Treatment varies depending on the stage and location of the cancerous tissue. Health care professionals who treat patients with oral cancer include head and neck surgeons, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, otolaryngologists, speech pathologists, radiologists and nutritionists. Your oral surgeon will formulate a treatment plan and refer you through the proper channels that address all problems associated with oral cancer.

For additional information concerning oral cancer, diagnosis and treatment, contact an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon today.

Face and Jaw Surgery Center serves all of North Dakota and North West Minnesota including Moorhead, MN and East Grand Forks, MN

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The American Dental Hygienists’ Association and dental professionals in every area of specialization strongly encourage the early teaching of proper oral health habits. Children who grow up in an environment in which healthy habits are emphasized typically encounter fewer oral health issues in their teen years and in adulthood.

When to Start Teaching Oral Hygiene Habits

In order to ensure that children realize how important oral hygiene truly is, it is important for parents to begin instilling these values at an early age. Even before children are old enough to comprehend the acts of brushing or flossing, parents can take steps to foster healthy oral hygiene habits. These include:

• Even before the first tooth appears, clean and massage gums with a soft cloth soaked in lukewarm water after each feeding
• When teeth do begin to erupt, use a soft-bristled baby or toddler brush to gently clean the teeth with an ADA approved baby toothpaste
• Never allow babies or toddlers to go to bed with a bottle or sippy cup
• Avoid consumption of sugary snacks and beverages as these contribute to tooth decay

Around the age of two or three, parents can begin to teach their children how to properly brush their teeth every morning and evening. Many children enjoy performing this task by themselves, but it is critical that parents still follow up each solo session with proper brushing techniques and flossing to ensure thorough cleaning. Between the ages of six and eight, most children have enough experience with the process to begin brushing, flossing and rinsing without assistance.

Benefits of Teaching Early Oral Hygiene

In addition to building a strong oral hygiene foundation for adulthood, teaching children about how to properly care for their teeth and gums ensures their current and future health in general. The prevention of cavities and gum disease sets the stage for a healthy mouth that is less likely to develop more extensive and more costly problems in later years.

Regular visits to your child’s dentist will also help him or her to develop a positive association with this essential part of life. Children who begin seeing a dentist regularly before the age of three tend to harbor fewer irrational fears concerning dental work than those who wait longer. These positive associations generally follow them into adulthood, ensuring a lifetime of routine dental visits and improved oral health.

Face and Jaw Surgery Center serves all of North Dakota and North West Minnesota including Moorhead, MN and East Grand Forks, MN

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While traditional medical doctors and dentists have the license, experience and skills necessary to treat patients for a variety of conditions, only oral surgeons possess the certification and abilities required to address more serious and complex dental circumstances. Also called maxillofacial surgeons, their focus lies in the diagnosis and treatment of injuries, diseases and other conditions that affect the teeth, gums, jaws and face. Some of the most common issues addressed by oral surgeons include:

• TMJ, or problems with the temporomandibular joint
• Fractures, severe cuts or serious contusions of the face
• Wisdom teeth problems
• Face and mouth deformities, including cleft lip and palate
• Cancer of the mouth
• Missing teeth

Oral surgeons frequently work with traditional dentists and orthodontists in order to formulate more comprehensive treatment plans for their patients. In most cases, a primary dentist refers his or her patients to an oral surgeon for more intensive procedures, such as wisdom tooth extraction. Oral surgeons are the only medical professionals qualified to perform complex dental procedures like bone grafts within the jaw, the placement of dental implants and the correction of dental deformities caused by injury or genetic defect.

Education Requirements for an Oral Surgeon

In order to begin a career as an oral surgeon, a student must first obtain a 4-year bachelor’s degree at an accredited college or university. Common areas of concentration for these students include chemistry, biology, physiology and health. After graduation, the majority of students apply immediately to a specialized dental school at which they spend an additional four years training, learning and getting hands on experience with patients while under professional supervision. In most cases, the state in which the oral surgeon plans to practice will administer a written and practical exam before licensing and certification are finalized.

Skills and Characteristics of an Oral Surgeon

In addition to the innumerable abilities required in order to efficiently, responsibly and properly practice oral surgery, maxillofacial surgeons must also possess a variety of other skills as well. These include, but are not limited to:

• Multi-tasking abilities
• Patience and a solid work ethic, as many oral surgeons own and manage their own surgery suites and practices
• Physical dexterity and intellectual strength
• Management skills used to supervise and direct assistants and other staff
• The ability to accurately and effectively explain technologically complex terms to increase patient understanding
• Exceptional communication skills

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons specialize in a field of medicine that is constantly evolving and advancing. Their responsibilities to their patients and staff are complemented by their vigilance regarding new technology, cutting-edge instruments and advancements in the practical application of contemporary dental medicine. To experience the difference for yourself, call for your free initial consultation with a licensed oral surgeon today.

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A dental emergency is defined as any injury to the gums, jaws or teeth. Even an injury that seems mild at the time of the causal event may be serious if not treated properly by a qualified dental professional. Injuries that are ignored for any substantial amount of time may result in a more severe situation that requires extensive and costly treatment, so it is important that patients seek out professional help as soon as possible after the injury occurs.

What Situations are Considered Dental Emergencies?

A variety of conditions and injuries constitute dental emergencies. The following is a comprehensive list of the type of emergency situations that warrant immediate professional dental treatment.

A forcefully dislodged tooth: If a tooth is knocked out of its socket, it is imperative to the process of reinsertion that you see your dentist immediately. The likelihood that the tooth can be saved exponentially diminishes after one hour. First, pick the tooth up by the crown, or the portion of it that is visible when secured by the gums. If the root has been exposed to any type of dirt or contaminant, rinse it in warm water. Take care to avoid rubbing it or removing any tissue that is attached to it, as these are necessary in the process of reattachment.

Next, place the tooth in a small plastic or glass container of milk. The proteins in milk promote cell health and may aid in keeping the tooth  for the time that it takes to get to the dentist. Patients are strongly advised to follow this procedure in order to increase the chances of saving and reinserting the tooth.

A partially dislodged tooth: If the tooth has not been completely removed from its socket, it is usually easier for your dentist to repair it. Take care to avoid touching the tooth with your fingers or tongue, as this may weaken the tissues holding it in place. Use an ice pack on the outside of the mouth to reduce pain and swelling and see your dentist immediately.

Abscess: An abscess is a painful infection of the gum or bone that usually occurs between one or more teeth. If left untreated, an abscess may cause serious damage to gum tissue, bone and teeth in the area of the infection, so it must be addressed immediately. In severe cases, the bacteria associated with an abscess may spread to other areas of the body, resulting in moderate to serious illness.

A lost filling or crown: Aside from the pain that accompanies a lost filling or crown, this situation can potentially result in damage to the tooth in question. In the case of a dislodged crown, extreme pain may be a factor as you wait to visit your dentist. A doctor-approved over-the-counter pain reliever should help in the interim.

Injuries to the gums: If you sustain a cut, deep gouge or any other major injury to the gums, see your dental professional immediately. Serious injury to the gums may affect surrounding teeth and must be examined as soon as possible to reduce this risk and to stop bleeding.

Fracture to the jaw: A fractured jaw is often accompanied by damage to the teeth or permanent misalignment if not treated soon after the event occurs. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon will assess the situation and determine the most effective treatment possible.

If you have suffered any type of injury to the teeth, gums or jaws, consult a qualified dental professional immediately.

Face and Jaw Surgery Center serves all of North Dakota and North West Minnesota including Moorhead, MN and East Grand Forks, MN

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Prognathism refers to a structural abnormality of the face that causes a marked protrusion of either the upper or lower jaw. Maxillary prognathism, also known as an overbite, is more common and not always as noticeable as mandibular prognathism, more commonly known as an underbite. This condition frequently causes the teeth of the lower jaw to cover the upper teeth in a way that adversely affects breathing, appearance, speaking, biting and chewing.

In children, moderate to severe prognathism can cause long-term problems with speech, such as the development of a noticeable lisp or the inability to enunciate certain words properly. When permanent teeth emerge, prognathism can cause them to grow in at an improper angle. In the majority of prognathism cases, orthodontic intervention is necessary to correct any problems associated with crooked or slanted teeth.

What Causes Prognathism?

Prognathism affects individuals of all ages and has been shown to be caused by a variety of factors. These include:

• Hereditary factors, such as a family history of protruding or abnormal jaws
• A medical condition or genetic disorder, such as Crouzon Syndrome or Down Syndrome
• Growth hormone disorders that cause excessive growth of the jaw

During an evaluative consultation, the maxillofacial and oral surgeon will assess the patient’s type of prognathism and level of protrusion. Any symptoms related to the condition, such as difficulty breathing, talking or eating, will be noted. In addition, the patient will be asked to identify any other symptoms that may be associated with the prognathism, as a protruding jaw may indicate other, more complicated medical issues. Family history may be discussed as well in order to determine why and approximately when the condition developed, as well as how the jaw is expected to change in the future.

In addition to the initial assessment, the surgeon may order a variety of diagnostic tests in order to more accurately determine the severity of the condition. One or more of these tests may be necessary:

• X-rays of the entire skull
• Panoramic dental x-rays
• Bite imprints to allow for the construction of a mold

How is Prognathism Treated?

In most cases of prognathism, a combination of maxillofacial surgery and orthodontic treatment is used to correct the malocclusion, or misalignment, of the jaws. Depending on the type and severity of the condition, the procedure may involve surgical modification to one or both of the jaws. The patient is placed under general anesthesia while oxygen is administered through a nasal tube so as to allow the surgeon unobstructed access to the mouth.

Though many patients are apprehensive about scarring following this surgery, the procedure does not usually require any visible incisions in the skin. Instead of approaching the jaw from the exterior, the surgeon makes cuts to the gums to expose the jaw. The bone is then cut and shifted as necessary to correct the abnormal protrusion. Often the jaws are not wired together. The jaws are held together with small plates and screws that aid in the eventual permanent relocation of the jaw bones and a proper bite. Correcting prognathism helps restore a more natural and symmetrical appearance.

If you or your child suffer from prognathism and are interested in correcting the condition, call today to schedule your free initial consultation. Your condition and expectations regarding the surgery will be discussed, as will the course of treatment that is best for you.

Face and Jaw Surgery Center serves all of North Dakota and North West Minnesota including Moorhead, MN and East Grand Forks, MN

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Fargo, NDoffice

Grand Forks, NDoffice

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