If braces alone are unsuitable to correcting your smile, Dr. Christopher Corsa may suggest jaw surgery. Also known as orthognathic surgery, jaw surgery can correct functional and aesthetic issues of the jaw. Dr. Christopher Corsa and our team can help you correct your jaw alignment to preserve the health and beauty of your smile. To learn more about jaw surgery in San Jose, California, contact Corsa Orthodontics to speak with our orthodontist.
What is Jaw Surgery?
Jaw surgery, also called orthognathic surgery, may be needed when your oral health, function and appearance are affected by jaw concerns that cannot be corrected with more conservative care. Surgical treatment may help correct abnormalities in the teeth, jaws or facial bones. It can be especially important when these concerns make it difficult to speak, chew, eat, sleep or complete daily activities with comfort.
DOME
For some patients, jaw surgery may also include upper jaw expansion. DOME, or Distraction Osteogenesis Maxillary Expansion, is an adult upper jaw widening procedure that uses oral surgery and a skeletally anchored expander to widen the palate and nasal floor. This treatment may be recommended to help correct crossbites, create space for severe crowding and support improved breathing for some patients, including those with obstructive sleep apnea.
SARPE
SARPE, or Surgically Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion, is another type of upper jaw expansion used for adults whose jaw sutures have fused. During SARPE, precise bone cuts are made in the upper jaw and an expander is used to slowly widen the palate. This can help treat narrow arches, crowding and bite concerns.
How Upper Jaw Expansion Works
DOME and SARPE are planned with careful attention to your needs, comfort and long-term results. While each treatment is different, the process may include:
- Placement of a custom expander before surgery
- Precise surgical cuts to allow the upper jaw to expand safely
- A gradual expansion period using the appliance
- Time for new bone to form and stabilize
- Orthodontic care, such as braces or clear aligners, to refine the bite
DOME often uses bone-borne expanders, which means the appliance is supported by mini-implants in the roof of the mouth rather than relying only on the teeth. This can help reduce excess pressure on the teeth and gums during expansion. SARPE may use a tooth-borne or bone-supported expander, depending on your treatment plan.
Patient-Centered Surgical Care
At our office, we use advanced technology, modern techniques and high-quality materials to support precise planning and comfortable care. Before treatment begins, our team will review your procedure, explain what to expect and answer your questions so you can feel informed and confident.
After jaw surgery, DOME or SARPE, you may need follow-up care or orthodontic treatment to help you reach your best results. Our goal is to make speaking, chewing, eating and breathing easier while also improving balance in your smile and facial profile.
To learn more and find out whether jaw surgery in San Jose, CA, is right for you, we welcome you to contact our orthodontist and team today. Dr. Christopher Corsa is committed to helping you improve your smile, comfort and quality of life.
