Common types of dysgnathia
Narrow upper and lower jaw
Surgical palatal expansion (SPE) for the widening of the upper jaw Mandibular split osteotomy (lower jaw distraction) for expansion of the lower jaw
People with a smaller lower jaw often have very crooked teeth. This makes oral hygiene more challenging and strains your jaw. Jaw, head and neck pain are common consequences of this.
Lower jaw appliances
Expansion allows the lower jaw to widen. This procedure is largely pain-free and is carried out with the help of an appliance that sits firmly in your mouth. Before we do this, the jawbone is slightly weakened through a small incision in the oral vestibule.
Mandibular split osteotomy is a good solution for crowding as it creates more room in the lower jaw without removing healthy teeth.
The orthodontist inserts the expansion appliance before surgery. The procedure is carried out while the patient is under general anesthesia. The surgeon performs the procedure exclusively via the oral cavity to avoid external scars. The mandibular symphysis, which lies directly in the middle of the chin, is weakened in order to allow expansion (distraction) of the bone. This procedure enables the build-up of bones and creates more room in the lower jaw. Directly after this procedure, you will notice a small gap between you lower front teeth. This gap will continue widening during the expansion phase until an orthodontist closes it.
The inpatient stay in our clinic is limited to two days. The first follow-up examination usually occurs after one week. From then on, the patient is required to turn the appliance by 0.01 inch each day (depending on the extent of crowding) in order to complete the distraction within 2-3 weeks. The expansion appliance stays in place for approx. 3-4 months until the bone has completely healed.
During the expansion process (1 week post-op) you will have to turn the expansion appliance (1x night). This procedure is pain-free. The orthodontist will carry out regular check-ups in consultation with our team. Sick leave is limited to approx. one week.
Please do not hesitate to contact our team if you have any questions.
