S.S.S.S

Orthognathic surgery is a surgical treatment that corrects deformities in the jaw and facial skeleton. Incompatibilities in the upper and lower jaw can lead to chewing, speaking and breathing problems. This operation improves the quality of life of patients by providing both aesthetic and functional improvement. It is planned together with orthodontic treatment and the most appropriate result is aimed for the individual's facial structure.

Orthognathic surgery is suitable for individuals with congenital or acquired structural disorders of the jaw and facial skeleton. This surgery is especially recommended for patients with the following conditions:

1. Jaw mismatches (Malocclusion): People with significant misalignment between the upper and lower jaws (lower jaw forward or backward, open bite, deep bite, etc.).

2. Chewing and speech problems: Patients who cannot chew properly or have difficulty speaking due to disorders in the jaw structure.

3. Aesthetic and functional concerns: People who are not satisfied with their aesthetic appearance due to facial asymmetry, jaw retardation or progression.

4. Sleep apnoea and breathing problems: Patients with severe snoring or sleep apnoea due to narrowing of the airway.

5. Trauma or congenital anomalies: Individuals with deformation of the jaw bone after accidents or individuals with congenital jaw structure defects.

The recovery process after orthognathic surgery usually proceeds in several stages and may vary depending on the patient's compliance. Here is the general healing process:

1. First 1-2 Weeks (Early Recovery)
- Postoperative swelling, mild bruising and pain may occur; these usually subside within 1-2 weeks.
- Feeding with liquid or soft foods is recommended.
- Speech and chewing functions may be limited.
- Keeping the head in an elevated position and applying ice during the first week helps to reduce swelling.

2. First 1 Month (Mid-term Recovery)
- The stitches are usually of the dissolving type, so they do not need to be removed.
- Jaw movements may be limited, but the mobility is increased with the exercises recommended by the doctor.
- A gradual transition to normal nutrition is made.

3. 3-6 Months (Late Recovery) 
- The bone begins to heal completely and the face shape begins to settle.
- Orthodontic treatment may continue (if necessary).
- Jaw function is largely normalised.

4. 6-12 Months (Full Recovery) 
- The bone structures are completely fused and the final shape of the face is set.
- Chewing, speech and respiratory functions are completely normalised.

Things to Consider:
- The doctor's instructions must be followed exactly.
- Habits such as smoking and alcohol that negatively affect recovery should be avoided.
- Soft feeding and oral hygiene should be observed.
- Heavy exercise should be avoided for the first few months.

It is important that you do not interrupt your regular medical check-ups for the healthy progress of your postoperative period.

Orthognathic surgery is usually not a painful process, but mild to moderate discomfort may be felt after surgery. Although the level of pain varies from person to person, most patients go through this process with a manageable level of pain.

Pain and Discomfort Management
1. During the operation:
- Since it is performed under general anaesthesia, the patient does not feel any pain.

2. First Postoperative Days:
- There may be mild to moderate pain and a feeling of pressure.
- It can usually be controlled with painkillers prescribed by a doctor.
- Swelling and slight bruising may increase in the first few days, but this is normal.

3. First Week:
- The pain starts to decrease, but there may be mild discomfort because the jaw movements are restricted.
- Feeding liquid and soft foods provides comfort by reducing the need to chew.

4. In the Recovery Process: 
- Most patients do not need painkillers within 1-2 weeks.
- Full bone healing can take several months, but without severe pain.

In summary: Pain after orthognathic surgery is usually mild or moderate and can be easily managed with medication given under the supervision of a doctor. The greatest discomfort is usually caused by swelling and temporary restriction in jaw movements.

There is no permanent scar on your face after orthognathic surgery, because the surgical incisions are usually made through the mouth. In this way, there is no visible scar from the outside.

Why No Trace?
Internal incisions: Incisions to reach the jaw bones are made inside the mouth, on the inner surface of the lips and cheeks.
No Incision on the Skin: Since there is no surgical incision visible from the outside, there is no scar on the face.
Stitches are melting type: Since the stitches in the mouth dissolve spontaneously, there is no need for stitch removal.

Orthodontic treatment is a dental treatment applied to ensure the correct alignment of the teeth and jaws. It is performed to correct dental crowding, jaw closure disorders (malocclusion) and aesthetic and functional irregularities of the teeth.

Why is Orthodontic Treatment Necessary?
- Correcting tooth crowding: Uneven teeth can make chewing and oral hygiene difficult.
- Correcting jaw closing disorders: It treats problems such as open bite, cross bite, deep bite.
- To improve the teeth and jaw aesthetically and functionally: Provides a more balanced facial structure and a neat smile.
- Preparation for orthognathic surgery: Optimises jaw and tooth alignment before and after jaw surgery.

Orthodontic Treatment Methods
1. Braces (Brackets): Teeth are straightened using metal, ceramic or transparent brackets.
2. Transparent aligners (such as Invisalign): Removable clear aligners that gradually straighten teeth.
3. Functional Appliances: These are special devices used to guide jaw development.
4. Orthognathic Treatment Supportive Orthodontics: It is used to ensure proper alignment of teeth before and after jaw surgeries.

Braces do not usually cause severe pain, but mild to moderate discomfort may be felt during some stages of treatment. This is related to the teeth being moved and adapting to their new position.

Discomforts Caused by Braces
1. When First Installed (First few days)
- Slight pressure and tenderness may be felt.
- Teeth may ache, especially when chewing.
- Consuming soft foods facilitates this process.

2. After Adjustments (After each control appointment) 
- Slight pain may be felt when the wires are tightened or the tyre is changed.
- It usually decreases within 1-3 days.

3. Contact of Brackets and Wires with Soft Tissues 
- In the first few days, irritation of the lips, inner cheeks and tongue may occur.
- The use of orthodontic candles can reduce this discomfort.

Suggestions for Pain Relief
Painkillers can be taken (on doctor's advice).
Cold drinks and ice compresses can be soothing.
Consuming soft foods (soup, yoghurt, puree, etc.) can reduce pain.
With orthodontic wax it is possible to prevent irritation of the brackets.

Pain in braces treatment is usually temporary and most patients get used to it within a few days. If you experience severe or prolonged pain, it is recommended to consult your orthodontist.

Paying attention to oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment is extremely important to keep teeth healthy and prevent possible dental and gum problems. When braces or clear aligners are used, the accumulation of food debris and plaque can increase, which can lead to various oral health problems.

Importance of Paying Attention to Oral Hygiene

1. Preventing Caries and Tooth Stains
- Brackets and wires can increase plaque accumulation on the tooth surface.
- Without regular and effective brushing, caries and white spots (decalcification) can occur.

2. Preventing Gum Diseases
- Symptoms such as swelling, bleeding and inflammation of the gums may occur (gingivitis).
- In advanced cases, it may develop into periodontitis and cause tooth loss.

3. Preventing Bad Breath
- Inadequate oral hygiene can lead to a build-up of food debris and bad odour.
- This problem can be prevented by regular tooth brushing and interface cleaning.

4. Supporting the Orthodontic Treatment Process
- If gum health is maintained, treatment proceeds more efficiently.
- Inflammation of the gums due to poor oral hygiene can cause treatment to be delayed.

Suggestions for Oral Hygiene
Brush teeth at least 2-3 times a day (orthodontic brushes or electric toothbrushes are recommended).
Use an interdental brush or dental floss (to remove debris between the brackets).
Use mouthwash (Mouthwashes with antiseptic properties increase oral hygiene).
Avoiding sugary and sticky foods (Such foods increase the risk of caries by sticking to the braces).
Regular orthodontist check-ups (for professional cleaning and control).

If oral hygiene is not taken care of during orthodontic treatment, tooth and gum health may be damaged, which may prolong the treatment process or lead to complications. Therefore, a regular and careful oral care routine is essential.

Yes, orthodontic treatment with transparent aligners is possibleHowever, it should be assessed by the orthodontist whether it is suitable for each case. Invisalign, ClearCorrect and similar transparent plate systemsare almost invisible and removable appliances that allow teeth to be corrected gradually.