For most people, the alignment of their jaw is something they never have to think about. But for Emily, a 33-year-old graphic designer from Scarborough, living with a misaligned jaw affected nearly every part of her lifefrom chronic jaw pain and daily headaches to speech issues and chewing difficulties. After years of managing symptoms and feeling frustrated by temporary fixes, she finally underwent jaw realignment surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery. The results were transformative.
In this patient spotlight, we take a look at Emilys journeybefore, during, and after jaw surgeryand what others can learn from her experience. From diagnosis to recovery, her story is a powerful example of how specialized dental and orthodontic care can improve both function and quality of life.
Recognizing the Signs of Jaw Misalignment
For years, Emily dismissed her jaw clicking, mild discomfort, and tendency to favor one side of her mouth while chewing. But by her late 20s, the symptoms had escalated. She experienced frequent jaw locking, migraines, and even dizziness. Her lower jaw appeared visibly off-center, and she started noticing increased difficulty with speech clarity and smiling evenly.
When a night guard and orthodontic adjustments failed to offer lasting relief, Emilys dentist at McLevin Dental recommended a thorough assessment, including 3D imaging and a referral to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. The diagnosis was clear: Emily had a skeletal jaw misalignment that couldnt be corrected with braces alone. She was a candidate for orthognathic (jaw) surgery.
What Is Jaw Realignment Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery is a corrective procedure performed to reposition the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. Its often used to treat issues like:
Severe underbites or overbites
Crossbites or open bites
Jaw asymmetry
TMJ disorders
Breathing issues, including sleep apnea
This surgery is typically done in coordination with orthodontic treatment to ensure long-term alignment and stability. In Emilys case, the surgery involved repositioning both jaws to achieve a balanced bite, improved facial symmetry, and long-term relief from joint pressure and strain.
The Surgical Process and Recovery
Jaw realignment surgery is a significant procedure that requires careful planning. At McLevin Dental, Emily was supported throughout the pre-surgical orthodontics phase. For 12 months leading up to surgery, she wore braces to align her teeth in preparation for the new jaw position.
The surgery itself was performed under general anesthesia at a hospital by a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Emily stayed overnight for observation and returned home the next day with detailed instructions for care and healing.
Post-operative recovery involved:
A soft food diet for several weeks
Use of elastic bands to guide the jaw into place
Swelling and bruising that subsided gradually
Regular follow-ups to monitor healing and alignment
Most importantly, she received continuous support from McLevin Dentals care team, who collaborated closely with her surgeon and orthodontist to ensure her bite was stabilizing as expected.
Life After Jaw Surgery: The Transformation
Within just a few months of surgery, Emily began noticing major improvements:
She could chew more evenly and without pain
Her jaw stopped clicking and locking
Her migraines significantly decreased
Her speech became clearer and more effortless
Her facial appearance felt more balanced and natural
Perhaps most significantly, Emily gained a renewed sense of confidence. Where she once felt self-conscious about her jawline and struggled to smile for photos, she now beamed with pride. The emotional impact of this transformation was just as powerful as the physical changes.
What Patients Should Know About Jaw Realignment
If youre experiencing chronic jaw pain, bite discomfort, or facial imbalance, its important to know that there are effective, long-term solutions beyond short-term treatments like bite splints or muscle relaxants.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Jaw misalignment is often misunderstood or underdiagnosed. Seek a second opinion if your symptoms persist.
Orthognathic surgery is most successful when planned with both surgical and orthodontic teams.
Recovery takes timebut the rewards are long-lasting and often life-changing.
Modern jaw surgery is safer and more predictable than ever, thanks to digital planning tools and expert care teams.
McLevin Dental: Supporting You Through Every Step
At McLevin Dental, we work with patients across Scarborough and the GTA to identify and treat jaw misalignment with compassion, expertise, and personalized care. We collaborate with trusted oral surgeons and orthodontists to ensure your treatment is seamless from consultation to recovery.
Our comprehensive services include:
TMJ evaluations and bite assessments
Digital imaging and 3D treatment planning
Pre- and post-surgical orthodontics
Long-term oral health support following surgery
Take the First Step Toward Relief
If you or someone you love is living with jaw pain, facial discomfort, or functional issues caused by misalignment, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our team. Like Emily, you deserve reliefand you deserve to smile without pain or hesitation.