Dentofacial Deformities: Diagnosis & Corrective Jaw Surgery
A clear guide to dentofacial deformities, jaw size or position mismatches that affect bite, chewing and facial appearance.
Treatment usually begins with
Orthodontic & Surgical Assessment
Imaging & Bite Analysis
Combined Treatment Planning
Corrective Jaw Surgery
Treatment is planned jointly with orthodontics, combining braces with corrective jaw surgery to achieve a functional, balanced bite and facial profile.
You may need this evaluated if...
Evaluation for a dentofacial deformity is recommended when these apply:
- A visibly protruding or receding jaw
- Difficulty biting, chewing or closing the lips comfortably
- A bite that doesn't align despite completed orthodontic treatment
- Facial asymmetry linked to jaw size or position
Combined orthodontic and surgical treatment can significantly improve both function and facial balance for most patients with a dentofacial deformity.
What is Dentofacial Deformities (Jaw Misalignment)?
Dentofacial deformities occur when the upper and lower jaws don't match in size or position, affecting how the teeth meet, the ability to chew normally, and facial appearance, often correctable with combined orthodontic and surgical treatment.
A Combined Orthodontic-Surgical Approach
Braces prepare the teeth, and jaw surgery repositions the bone for a matched, functional bite.
Function Improves Alongside Appearance
Correcting jaw position also improves chewing, speech and breathing in many cases.
Growth Completion Matters
Surgery is typically planned once facial growth is complete.
A Planned, Staged Process
Treatment is carefully sequenced over months, involving both orthodontist and surgeon.
Common Symptoms
- Protruding or receding lower jaw
- Difficulty biting or chewing certain foods
- Lips that don't close comfortably at rest
- Facial asymmetry
- A bite that feels persistently misaligned
What Increases Your Risk
A combination of dental, developmental and lifestyle factors can increase the likelihood of this condition.
How It Is Diagnosed
A structured assessment confirms the diagnosis and helps guide the right treatment plan.
Orthodontic-Surgical Joint Assessment
Both specialists evaluate the bite, jaw position and facial profile together.
Cephalometric X-Ray Analysis
Measures jaw and facial bone relationships in detail.
3D Facial Imaging
Helps plan and predict the surgical outcome.
Photographic & Bite Records
Document the current bite and facial profile for treatment planning.
Treatment Approaches
Conservative Management
- Orthodontic treatment to align the teeth in preparation for surgery
- Speech therapy if speech is affected by the jaw relationship
- Monitoring throughout adolescence for growing patients
- Continued orthodontic refinement after any surgical correction
Surgical Treatment
Orthognathic (corrective jaw) surgery repositions the upper and/or lower jaw to achieve a functional bite and balanced facial profile.
Treatment decisions are based on imaging, the extent of involvement and your overall dental and facial anatomy, not a single standard approach.
Know When to Act
Recognising these signs early and acting promptly helps protect your jaw function and facial health.
Book an Assessment
Schedule a consultation for a routine evaluation or ongoing concern.
- A jaw or bite concern being evaluated alongside ongoing orthodontic treatment
Seek Urgent Care
Reach out for emergency care immediately if you notice any of the following.
- Sudden difficulty breathing or swallowing linked to jaw position
Not Sure What You Need?
Speak to a Care Guide and we'll help you choose the right maxillofacial surgeon.
Talk to Care GuideA care guide can match your condition to the right maxillofacial surgeon.
Share your concern or existing reports. We will help you choose the right hospital, doctor and appointment.
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