Mandibular protrusion occurs when the lower jaw extends forwards beyond its normal position, which can cause both aesthetic and functional problems. Fortunately, people suffering from this problem can find an effective solution in orthognathic surgery. Correcting mandibular protrusion marks a turning point in their quality of life.
Correction of mandibular protrusion: what it is and how it is performed
The lower jaw is a fundamental component of the facial structure. An incorrect position affects appearance and, in many cases, also leads to problems with speech, chewing and breathing.
Mandibular protrusion, or mandibular prognathism, is a fairly common anomaly. It is easily identified because the lower teeth protrude further than the upper teeth, and the chin is more prominent than usual. This disrupts the harmony of the face, as well as affecting the bite and the function of the teeth. Nowadays, mandibular protrusion can be corrected through orthognathic surgery.
Before proceeding with orthognathic surgery, careful radiographic assessments, facial studies and dental model analyses are carried out. The aim is to establish clearly what the patient needs and thus be able to plan the most appropriate treatment for him or her.
During surgery for mandibular protrusion, the maxillofacial surgeon makes incisions inside the mouth to access the jawbone. The surgeon then makes a number of precise cuts in the bone in order to reposition the mandible into the ideal position, which has already been determined in advance. It should be noted that, in certain cases, to achieve complete facial harmony, it may also be necessary to adjust the position of the upper jaw. Ultimately, the aim is to position the lower and upper jaws correctly.
Orthognathic surgery is carried out under general anaesthesia and requires only one night’s stay in hospital. Once the procedure is complete, internal fixation devices such as plates and screws are used to stabilise the bones in their new position. Although the recovery process may vary depending on the complexity of the case, it generally involves a liquid or soft diet for a few weeks, followed by a gradual transition to more solid foods. Your surgeon will advise you accordingly.
Benefits of orthognathic surgery
Orthognathic surgery offers the following advantages with regard to the correction of mandibular protrusion:
- Improved aesthetics. By correcting mandibular protrusion, it restores facial harmony, significantly improving the patient’s appearance.
- Improved temporomandibular joint function. It can also resolve problems with chewing function and tooth alignment, as well as disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This is the joint that connects the temporal bone of the skull to the jaw and enables essential movements such as speaking, chewing and swallowing. Orthognathic surgery helps to address problems with these functions, contributes to better oral health and provides a better quality of life.
- It improves respiratory problems. In certain cases, mandibular protrusion may be linked to respiratory problems, including sleep apnoea. Surgical correction helps to address this and reduce its symptoms.
It should also be noted that the benefits of the procedure are long-term. Although this type of surgery requires a recovery period, the results are lasting, both aesthetically and functionally.
As we have seen, correcting mandibular protrusion through orthognathic surgery is an effective and long-lasting solution, improving patients’ facial appearance and oral function. Provided there is meticulous planning before the procedure and appropriate follow-up afterwards, a significant transformation in appearance and an improvement in physical and emotional wellbeing will be evident. It is important to bear in mind that the better you look and feel, the better you will feel about yourself.
If you are considering orthognathic surgery for your mandibular problem, you should consult a specialist medical team to obtain a comprehensive assessment and discuss the possible treatment options. At Clínica Birbe, we will provide you with a personalised assessment. You can call us on 34 932 124 737, send us a WhatsApp message to 34 626852363 or email us at clinica@birbe.org.
Article written by the Birbe Editorial Committee
