Jaw Surgery − Wilmington DE
Wilmington DE Oral Surgeon, Louis K. Rafetto, DMD, can correct misaligned jaws or poorly fitting teeth with Jaw Surgery. Wilmington Office Phone Number Wilmington Office Phone Number 302-477-1800
A poor bite relationship may be caused by misaligned teeth, misaligned jaws, or a combination of both. Orthognathic jaw surgery is indicated when one or both jaw(s) are out of alignment with a resulting “bad bite”. Jaw growth is a gradual process and in some instances, the upper and lower jaws grow at different rates.
The result can be a variety of problems that can affect chewing function, speech, long-term oral health and appearance. Injury to the jaw and birth defects can also affect jaw alignment.
In most cases it is necessary to first correct any problems related to tooth position with braces. Then, in conjunction with your orthodontist, corrective jaw surgery is performed to reposition the misaligned jaw(s).
While this often improves facial appearance, most importantly it allows better function of the teeth and jaws. To discuss Orthognathic Surgery in the Wilmington, DE area, please feel free to contact us at Wilmington Office Phone Number 302-477-1800 to setup a consultation appointment.
Who Benefits from Orthognathic Surgery?
People who may benefit from orthognathic surgery include those with an improper bite or jaws that are positioned incorrectly.
Problems in the following areas may be experienced:- difficulty with chewing, biting or swallowing
- speech problems
- chronic jaw or TMJ pain
- open bite (teeth don’t come together)
- protruding jaw
- breathing problems
Before treatment begins, a consultation will be held to perform an evaluation including a clinical examination as well as an analysis of your x-rays and dental models. During the pre-treatment consultation process, feel free to ask any questions that you have regarding your treatment.
When you are fully informed about the aspects of your care, you and your dental team will make the decision to proceed with treatment together.
Technology and Orthognathic Surgery
Dr. Rafetto uses modern computer techniques and three-dimensional model analysis to determine how your surgery will be approached. This allows us to show you how your bite will be improved and even give you an idea of how you’ll look after surgery.
This helps you understand the surgical process and the extent of the treatment prescribed. Our goal is to help you understand your condition and the potential benefits of orthognathic surgery.
If you are a candidate for orthognathic surgery, Dr. Rafetto will work closely with your dentist and orthodontist during your treatment. The actual surgery can move your teeth and jaws into a new position that results in a more attractive, functional and healthy dental-facial relationship.
Will my insurance company cover the cost of orthognathic surgery?
Most insurance companies will cover the cost of these surgical procedures. Of course, individual benefits within the insurance company policy vary. After you are seen for your consultation at our office, we will assist you in determining whether or not your insurance company will cover a particular surgical procedure.
Ready to Improve Your Smile? Call or schedule an appointment today.
Procedures
- Dental Implants
- Implants to Support Fixed or Removable Denture
- Bone Grafting
- Wisdom Teeth
- Facial Trauma
- Pre-Prosthetic Surgery
- Distraction Osteogenesis
- Oral Pathology
- Cleft Lip & Palate
- Bone Morphogenetic Protein
- Platelet Rich Plasma
- Impacted Canines
Louis K. Rafetto, DMD, PA
Patient Review by Georgia R
Thank you so much to the entire team at Dr. Rafetto’s office. I called this morning as a new patient with concerns about my jaw and was able to be seen just a few hours later. After X-rays and an exam, my concerns were put to rest. And, thanks to a thorough explanation from Dr. Rafetto; I know what I need to further discuss with my dentist about the continuing care of my teeth. If only all doctor’s offices could have such a caring, knowledgeable and helpful team- Thank you again for working me in to today’s schedule and for everyone taking the extra time to explain things so completely, being so incredibly helpful and for answering all of my questions.
- Georgia R