Metal Mouth Message Board

Hi millstone, The change in appearance will partly depend on how much movement you need. I found that mine did not change much - it's essentially the same face, but with improved proportions (ie. my chin is slightly less prominent). But no drastic changes for me (and I certainly didn't want any, eit...

Yikes, that sounds difficult. The only suggestion I can offer is to get another opinion, if you can. I don't see why your age should be a big deal... especially since you already had SARPE and healed just fine. However, if your bite is really only 2mm off, that seems like a very small amount, that c...

A chin implant is a cosmetic fix. It may be a good solution for someone whose only problem is having a small or receding chin. On the other hand, it does nothing to change the size or chape of your jaw. It will not fix problems like overbite, overjet, gummy smile, crossbite, and so on. It wil do not...

You should go see a proper orthodontist first of all, and get a full assessment. I am Canadian, so I am not totally sure how your system works, but I think that you can get the NHS to pay for your surgery if they think your problem is serious enough.

It will get better, just hang in there! Make sure you are drinking lots of fluids, and go for walks.

I was still pretty swollen at 8 days post-op. It took about two weeks for my swelling to get much better. You should be a lot better by the time you start university.

Um, no I think that would be pretty unlikely. Usually you wouldn't have to get headgear if you're having surgery, as far as I know. It would be a bit redundant, I think. But I am not an orthodontist, so I can't offer total certainty on that one.

I don't know what you mean by a cage. I don't know if you need a referral - it depends where you live. If you are not sure, just call up any orthodontist and ask. By the way, if you do get orthodontic treatment, you will need to see a dentist anyways, because your teeth need to be clean and healthy!

Basically what you need to do is make an appointment with an orthodontist and find out what your treatment options are. Each person's case is unique, so none of us can tell you exactly what will happen. But if you are a candidate for surgery, then yes, you will have to get braces. I know it's hard w...

Hi Saffie, if you browse this message board you will find many stories from people who have had surgery, and that should probably give you an idea of what's involved. My personal opinion is that it's definitely worth it, and if you can get it done for free, go for it! It's not exactly a walk in the ...

The tube does indeed go into your stomach - it is called a naso-gastric tube. It sucks out any blood that might end up going down your throat during surgery. I had mine in for the whole night after surgery, and yes it is uncomfortable but not painful. Also, I had a catheter in for the whole night af...

My jaw definitely hurt worse than my hip. I had a crossbite and underbite and lip incompetence and asymmetrical lower jaw. Sorry I can't help with insurance stuff; I'm in Canada!

Yup I had it done. I have a small scar on my hip, about 3 cm long. It was a bit sore for a few days, you will not want to sleep on that side for a week or so, and you have to keep it dry for about a week. Otherwise it is not a big deal.

Ok, I have no experience with this personally, so I don't know what I would say. But I think you should just tell her straight forward, but gently: You have a breath issue and you need to get some medical attention.

Yes, I think you should tell her. Her breath may be caused by her teeth, but not necessarily. It could be a result of any number of health problems. Just because her teeth are crooked, doesn't mean that's what is causing the bad breath. She should start with a visit to her family doctor.

I agree with Meryaten. While surgery does come with some risks, major complications are extremely rare, and in most cases the benefits of the surgery outweigh the risks. Your ortho did you a disservice. It's possible that he just doesn't know enough about what jaw surgery can achieve for the patient...