While the field of orthodontics has evolved immensely in the last decade, some children may still need jaw surgery to correct more severe cases of misaligned bites or disorders. If your child exhibits any of the following symptoms, have them evaluated by an oral surgeon.

4 Signs Your Child May Benefit from Jaw Surgery

1. Open Bite

If your child has an open bite, you’ll notice a gap between their top and bottom teeth when they bite down. A significant gap can impair speech development.

While mild instances of open bites can be treated with orthodontics, more substantial gaps or those unsuccessfully treated with a dental appliance may require jaw surgery.

2. Trouble Chewing 

While the teeth are largely responsible for breaking down food, the jaw plays a crucial role as well. If your child’s jaw is misaligned, their teeth won’t fit together perfectly, which can make it difficult to chew up food. Without treatment, their teeth can shift even further.

3. Frequent Jaw Pain or Headaches

If your child experiences frequent headaches or jaw pain, they may have temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). This condition causes pain, compromised movement, and stiffness around the jaw joint, and commonly develops from bite misalignment or teeth grinding.

4. Sleeping Problems

While sleeping may not seem related to your child’s oral health, problems with bite and jaw alignment can cause excessive snoring and even sleep apnea. A poor bite can lead to an obstructed airway when sleeping.

If you’re concerned your child has symptoms that may require jaw surgery, consult the professionals at Oral Surgery Associates of Alaska in Anchorage. Board-certified surgeons Dr. William F. Bergeron, Jr. and Dr. Ray Holloway provide patients of all ages with top-quality care. To learn more about jaw surgery options and recovery, visit them online, or call (907) 561-1430 to schedule a consultation.