Treatment
Before beginning any prognathism treatment, your team of care providers will work together to make sure everyone is on the same page to ensure a successful outcome. In addition to completing a physical exam and asking about your medical history, your providers will likely take X-rays or bite imprints, reports the NIH.
Your jaw treatment will be tailored to your individual situation. Your dental professional may recommend orthodontic appliances such as braces, according to a study in the Journal of Dentistry and Oral Biology. Orthodontic treatment to correct prognathism may take up to 20 months to complete.
Alternatively, your providers might recommend surgery to move either the upper or lower jaw to create proper alignment. This type of procedure, called orthognathic surgery, may involve advanced techniques like constructing virtual 3D models of your facial structures, reports a study in Scientific Reports. These models, which are increasingly being used in the field, help the surgeon accurately plan and execute the procedure, ensuring that you leave the hospital with correct jaw placement and a symmetrical face shape.
If you experience facial pain or aren't happy with the appearance of your jaw, talk to your dentist about your treatment options. They will help you determine the best course of action to achieve the results you're looking for.