Corrective Jaw Surgeries for Health, Balance, and Confidence
Dentists throughout the Inland Northwest trust their patients to Liberty Oral & Facial Surgery in Spokane Valley, Washington, and Post Falls, Idaho. Our Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Dr. Bryan McLelland, has advanced training, experience, and technology to repair and reconstruct a wide range of conditions that affect the mouth, face, and jaws.
As an OMS (Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery) specialist, Dr. McLelland combines surgical precision with aesthetic understanding to restore both function and appearance.
What Is Corrective (Orthognathic) Jaw Surgery?
Corrective jaw surgery, also called orthognathic surgery, focuses on realigning the jaws to achieve balance, comfort, and improved function.
The term “orthognathic” comes from Greek roots: “ortho” means straight, and “gnathic” means jaw. That definition perfectly summarizes the goal of this surgery — to create harmony between the upper and lower jaws.
Our specialists recommend orthognathic surgery when jaw imbalances cause pain, difficulty chewing, or problems with appearance and speech.
Why Jaw Alignment Matters
Your jaw does more than hold your teeth in place — it plays a major role in speech, chewing, breathing, and facial structure. When the jaws are misaligned, these everyday functions can become difficult or uncomfortable.
Misalignment can develop from birth conditions, trauma, or injury. Regardless of the cause, corrective surgery can dramatically improve your health, comfort, and confidence.
Benefits of Corrective Jaw Surgery
Patients who undergo corrective jaw surgery often experience significant improvements in both function and appearance, including:
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Easier biting, chewing, swallowing, and speech
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Reduced wear, chipping, or cracking of the teeth
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Enhanced facial symmetry and balance
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Relief from TMJ-related headaches or jaw stiffness
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Less jaw pain and tension
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Improved breathing and relief from sleep apnea symptoms
Common Types of Corrective Jaw Procedures
The type of surgery recommended depends on your individual needs and goals. Dr. McLelland uses precise diagnostic imaging to plan every procedure carefully.
Open Bite Surgery
An open bite occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not meet when the mouth closes. During this procedure, Dr. McLelland removes a small portion of the upper jaw and repositions it. This allows the front teeth to meet comfortably and restores a natural bite.
Protruding Lower Jaw
When the lower jaw extends too far forward, Dr. McLelland adjusts its position to achieve a more balanced profile. This procedure improves both alignment and appearance.
Receding Jaw or Weak Chin
If the jaw or chin recedes, the bone can be repositioned forward. This enhances jawline definition and improves both bite function and facial symmetry.
Precision and Personalization You Can Trust
Every face is unique — and every surgery should be, too. At Liberty Oral & Facial Surgery, Dr. McLelland uses advanced imaging and surgical techniques to plan and execute each procedure with precision. Our goal is to help you achieve a healthier, more balanced bite and a naturally beautiful smile.
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