What Is Dental Distraction Osteogenesis?
Dental distraction osteogenesis is a technique used to lengthen the jawbone when it is too short or underdeveloped, often due to congenital conditions, trauma, or severe jaw misalignment. This procedure is typically recommended when traditional methods, like bone grafting or orthodontics alone, aren't enough to achieve the desired results. At Mobile Oral and Facial Surgery, board-certified oral surgeons Dr. Christopher Mullenix and Dr. Aaron Wallender offer distraction osteogenesis to help improve jaw function, facial symmetry, and the foundation needed for future dental work, such as implants or braces. This approach provides patients with a long-term solution for both structural and cosmetic concerns. To learn more or find out if you're a candidate, contact our Mobile, AL office to schedule a consultation.
How Is Distraction Osteogenesis Performed?
Before undergoing distraction osteogenesis, patients will have a thorough consultation where imaging and dental evaluations are performed to determine the best treatment plan, as well as review the distraction osteogenesis phases. During the procedure, one of our oral surgeons will make a precise cut in the jawbone (typically the lower jaw) and attach a distraction device, either internally or externally, to the bone segments. After a short latency period of about 5 – 7 days to allow initial healing, the device is gradually adjusted — usually by turning a small screw once or twice a day — to slowly move the bone segments apart at a controlled rate of about one millimeter per day. This process, called the distraction phase, typically lasts 1 – 2 weeks, depending on the amount of bone length needed. Once the new bone has formed in the gap, the device remains in place during the consolidation phase, which allows the bone to harden and stabilize over several weeks. Patients are closely monitored throughout to ensure proper healing and alignment.
What Are the Benefits of Distraction Osteogenesis in Dentistry?
Distraction osteogenesis in dentistry offers several benefits for patients with underdeveloped or misaligned jawbones, promoting both functional and aesthetic improvements, including:
- Gradually corrects jawbone deficiencies
- Enhances facial symmetry and appearance
- Provides a stable foundation for dental implants and orthodontics
- Reduces the need for traditional bone grafts
- Minimizes surgical risks compared to other procedures
- Offers a long-term solution to jaw misalignment
- Improves bite function and overall oral health
- Helps resolve congenital or trauma-related jaw deformities
- Allows for predictable and controlled bone growth
- Promotes natural bone formation without synthetic materials
Mobile Oral and Facial Surgery Reviews
Very professional and very nice and clean office!!Awesome bedside manners!!! The doctor called me himself to check on me !! Awesomeness !!!
Great staff and knowledgeable….The staff make you feel you will get the best service in the business….
Super friendly and explained needed care easily to understand. First time I have ever had the Doctor call me personally to make sure all was well and if I had any questions and if had questions later to call him for answers.
Great office!
We were completely satisfied and will gladly refer your office to others. Thank you so much!
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Explore Jaw Lengthening Options Today
If you're struggling with an underdeveloped jaw or facial imbalance, distraction osteogenesis could be the solution to restore both function and aesthetics. At Mobile Oral and Facial Surgery, Dr. Christopher Mullenix and Dr. Aaron Wallender specialize in this advanced technique to gradually lengthen your jawbone, providing the ideal foundation for future dental treatments and improving overall facial symmetry. Contact us in Mobile, AL today to learn how distraction osteogenesis can improve your oral health and appearance.