Is getting jaw surgery worth it for an underbite?

Doctor's Answers 1

Photo of Dr Kok Sen Ho
Dr Kok Sen Ho

Dentist, Oral Surgeon

Thanks for the question. An underbite (mandibular prognathism) is a type of dental misalignment (malocclusion) in which one’s lower jaw protrudes or extends further than the upper jaw.

Depending on the severity of the protrusion, an underbite affects a person functionally and aesthetically in the following ways:

  • Unable to chew foods efficiently
  • Worn down tooth enamel, increasing susceptibility to tooth decay, sensitivity and other dental issues
  • Chronic headaches and temporomandibular joint disorder
  • Affected speech clarity
  • Extended or prominent chin

Possible treatment options for an adult with underbite include orthodontics and corrective jaw surgery. That will help to correct your bite, change your facial profile and improve the symptoms associated with an underbite.

It is recommended that you consult with an oral & maxillofacial surgeon so that he/she can assess your dental condition, advise on the appropriate treatment for you and go through the benefits and risks so that you can make an informed decision.

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What are the risks of jaw surgery?

Thanks for the D2D. Jaw surgery is considered a safe and effective treatment for misaligned jaws. Nonetheless, as it is a surgery after all, there are risks in the short and long run. The risks that may occur right after surgery includes: Bleeding – Minor nose bleeds may be experienced for one or two weeks after surgery on the upper jaw Swelling – Swelling usually becomes worse on the third day. Abrasion – As the surgery is done from inside your mouth, there might be abrasions at the corners of your lips.

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