Orthognathic surgery
Jaw Asymmetry, Facial Asymmetry and Open Bite
Assessment and treatment of jaw and facial asymmetry and of open bite of congenital or developmental origin.
Overview
Also known as: facial asymmetry, crooked jaw, open bite, laterognathia
A slight difference between the two halves of the face is normal. When the difference is marked, however — the chin is shifted to one side, the line of the teeth is tilted or the bite does not meet evenly — the cause may be uneven growth of the jaws.
An open bite is a condition in which the front (or side) teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed. It can make biting, chewing and pronouncing certain sounds more difficult.
The causes may be congenital or develop during growth, and are sometimes related to an old injury or a condition of the jaw joint. Assessment therefore includes a detailed examination and imaging, and treatment is planned individually, often together with an orthodontist.
When to seek a consultation
- The chin or lower jaw is visibly shifted to one side.
- The front teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed.
- Difficulty biting, chewing or speaking related to the bite.
- Facial asymmetry that increases during growth or after an injury.
- Clicking, pain or limited movement of the jaw joint together with a change in the bite.
What treatment may involve
- Clinical examination, photographs and analysis of the bite.
- Imaging — for example X-rays and CT — to assess the bones and jaw joints.
- Joint planning with an orthodontist; in some cases orthodontic treatment is enough.
- For a marked skeletal mismatch, orthognathic surgery under general anaesthesia on one or both jaws, combined with chin correction where needed.
What to bring to the consultation
- An identity document and, where applicable, a referral from your GP or specialist.
- Existing medical records: discharge summaries, outpatient notes and test results.
- Imaging studies (X-rays, CT, MRI) on a disc or other digital medium, together with the written reports.
- A list of your current medicines, known allergies and chronic conditions.
- Information from your orthodontist, if you have one — treatment plan, photographs, models.
Recovery and follow-up
After jaw surgery, swelling, discomfort and limited mouth opening are expected in the first days, and a soft diet is advised for a period.
Recovery and the overall length of treatment are individual. Follow-up includes check-ups and orthodontic finishing.
Risks and alternatives
Besides general surgical risks, possible risks include numbness of the lip and chin, bite changes, discomfort in the jaw joints and residual asymmetry that may need further correction. With an open bite, there is also a risk of partial relapse towards the original position.
Alternatives include orthodontic treatment alone, observation in mild asymmetry, or deciding not to have surgery. The options are discussed individually.
Every surgical procedure carries general risks — for example those related to anaesthesia, bleeding, infection, delayed healing or scarring. The specific risks depend on your health, and on the type and extent of the procedure.
Possible alternatives — including observation, non-surgical treatment or referral to another specialist — are discussed openly during the consultation.
Outcomes and recovery time vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal for the face to be slightly asymmetrical?
Yes, slight asymmetry is common. An assessment is appropriate when the difference is marked, is increasing, or is linked to problems with the bite or jaw joint.
Can an open bite be fixed with braces alone?
In some cases orthodontic treatment is enough. When the cause lies in the jaw bones, a combination with surgery may be discussed — this is assessed after examination and imaging.
What tests are needed for jaw asymmetry?
Photographs, bite analysis and imaging such as X-rays and CT are usually used. The specific tests are decided after the examination.
This information does not replace a medical examination. Whether treatment is suitable for you is assessed individually after a consultation.