Introduction
If you're looking to improve a wide mandibular angle in New York City, you're in luck. The city is home to several top - notch hospitals and medical facilities that offer advanced treatments and procedures. In this article, we will explore three of the leading hospitals known for their expertise in dealing with mandibular angle - related issues, including orthognathic surgery and jaw reduction procedures. We'll also look at the specific treatments available, the medical teams involved, and what patients can expect during and after the treatment process.
1. Mount Sinai Hospital
Services Offered
Mount Sinai offers a comprehensive range of services related to jaw surgeries. Their division of oral and maxillofacial surgery is well - equipped to handle various jaw conditions, including those related to the mandibular angle. One of the key procedures they perform is orthognathic (corrective jaw) surgery. This surgery is used to correct developmental growth abnormalities of the jaws and facial bones, which can cause an imperfect positioning of the teeth when the jaws are closed. Such problems can affect chewing, speech, and the overall health and esthetic appearance of the face.
Additionally, Mount Sinai's plastic and reconstructive surgeons treat all forms of jaw deformities. They coordinate care with dentists, orthodontists, and other specialists as needed to restore both function and appearance. Some of the specific jaw conditions they treat include mandibular hyperplasia (prognathism), mandibular hypoplasia, maxillary hypoplasia, vertical maxillary deficiency (short face syndrome), and vertical maxillary excess (long face syndrome).
Diagnostics and Treatment Process
The typical treatment sequence for orthognathic surgery at Mount Sinai begins with an evaluation by the orthodontist and the oral and maxillofacial surgeon. This evaluation includes x - rays, models of the dentition, photographs, facial measurements, and a complete analysis of the data to come up with a problem list and a proposed treatment plan. The team uses the most advanced 3D x - rays and computer - assisted technology for treatment planning.
Virtual surgical planning (VSP) is an important part of the process. It starts with pre - operative orthodontic therapy, which aims to level and align the teeth over the maxillary and mandibular bony arches. This phase can take 12 to 18 months. When the patient is ready for surgery, a cone beam 3D CT scan and 3D photo morphometry are used for VSP. This allows the surgeon to "rehearse" the surgery in a virtual environment and predict the outcome. 3D printers are then used to fabricate surgical guides for accurate transfer of the VSP to the operating room.
The orthognathic procedure is performed under general anesthesia in the operating room with the braces in place. Internal fixation devices (small titanium screws and plates) are used to connect the repositioned segments to the jaws. Patients usually stay in the hospital for about 1 to 2 days. After the procedure, training elastics are used to help the patient close into their new bite. The patient's diet is limited to a liquid or non - chew diet for four weeks to allow for proper healing of the osteotomies. Six to eight weeks after the surgical procedure, the patient returns to the orthodontist for the post - operative orthodontic phase, which can last from 3 to 6 months to perfect the final occlusion.
Unique Offerings
Mount Sinai is also at the forefront of developing innovative procedures like "Jaw in a Day." This is an all - in approach to jaw tumor resection and reconstruction that includes same - day placement of titanium dental implants to anchor temporary teeth. The procedure combines years of experience in surgical treatment of oral cancers with sophisticated computer - assisted planning software. It offers patients an immediate post - surgical restoration of their smiles and a faster return to normal chewing. Some of the benefits of this procedure include enhanced overall well - being associated with having teeth, faster healing without scarring or deformity, shorter time to return to regular chewing and diet, and a choice in permanent prosthetic options such as ceramic, zirconium, and titanium.
2. Weill Cornell Medicine and New York - Presbyterian
Services Offered
At Weill Cornell Medicine, the team of oral and maxillofacial surgeons are specialists in orthognathic (corrective jaw) surgery for overbites, underbites, and cross - bites. Their goal is to correct these conditions, which can be the root causes for improper chewing, facial dysfunction, speech issues, joint pain, and sleep disorders.
They also perform surgical correction of maxillofacial skeletal deformities. These abnormalities may be caused by genetic, environmental, developmental, functional, pathologic aberrations apparent at birth, manifested in subsequent growth and development, acquired through trauma, neoplastic processes, or degenerative diseases. The surgical procedures involve repositioning and recontouring the facial bones to correct functional and/or pathologic problems.
Diagnostics and Treatment Process
The initial visits at Weill Cornell Medicine focus on determining exactly if and what jaw surgery a patient needs. The medical team collects data in the form of radiographs, measurements of the face and teeth, clinical photographs, and health history. They analyze this data, create models of the bite, and develop a comprehensive plan to correct the problem. Sometimes surgery involves repositioning only the upper jaw or lower jaw, and sometimes both jaws must be realigned.
Before the actual surgery, the patient needs to work with an orthodontist to move the teeth into the correct position within the jawbone. This typically involves six to twelve months of braces, during which the surgeon will check on the patient periodically. When the teeth are close to alignment, the surgery is scheduled at New York - Presbyterian Hospital, Cornell campus, one of the top - ranked hospitals in the country by US News and World Report.
After the surgery, the patient can expect to stay in the hospital for one to two nights. Approximately six weeks after surgery, the patient returns to the orthodontist to finish aligning the teeth to the new jaw position. For the first six to eight weeks after surgery, the bones will be healing into their new location, and the patient will be restricted to a diet of liquids and soft foods, and their activity will be limited.
Why Choose Weill Cornell Medicine?
Patients at Weill Cornell Medicine receive convenient, individualized care. The medical staff is sensitive to the patients' needs and creates a supportive, comfortable environment while offering highly specialized care. The hospital also provides multidisciplinary care from leading experts. Orthognathic surgeries require comprehensive, collaborative care from both orthodontics and surgery, and this unique multidisciplinary approach coordinates complex care, providing focused support before, during, and after the surgery.
3. Columbia University College of Dental Medicine (Columbiadoctors Dentistry)
Services Offered
Columbiadoctors Dentistry offers orthognathic (jaw) surgery for patients with misaligned jaws. An improper bite that involves the jawbones, not just the teeth, may require orthognathic surgery as orthodontics alone cannot reposition the bone. A misaligned jaw can be the result of a growth problem, traumatic injury, or pathologic process of the upper and/or lower jaw, which affects appearance, speech, chewing function, breathing, and overall oral health.
Diagnostics and Treatment Process
Similar to other hospitals, the first visits to the oral and maxillofacial surgeon at Columbiadoctors Dentistry focus on determining the need for jaw surgery. The medical team collects data in the form of radiographs, measurements of the face and teeth, clinical photographs, and health history. They analyze the data, create models of the bite, and develop a detailed plan.
Before surgery, the patient must work with an orthodontist to align the teeth over a period of six to twelve months. When the teeth are aligned, new diagnostic records are obtained, and computer - assisted digital surgical planning is performed. The surgery takes place at New York - Presbyterian Hospital or the Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital of New York - Presbyterian. The patient can expect to stay in the hospital for one to two nights.
About six weeks after surgery, the patient returns to the orthodontist to finish aligning the teeth to the new jaw position. For the first 6 to 8 weeks after surgery, the bones are healing, and the patient is on a liquid and soft - food diet with limited activity.
Why Choose Columbiadoctors Dentistry?
The oral surgeons at Columbiadoctors Dentistry have extensive expertise in the area of orthognathic surgery and use the most advanced diagnostic and surgical techniques available today. They can illustrate the realignment with digital modeling so that patients can see what the surgery will accomplish. The team also works closely with the patient's orthodontist and dentist throughout the process.
Comparative Analysis of the Three Hospitals
| Hospital | Unique Services | Treatment Process | Patient - Centric Approach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Sinai | Jaw in a Day procedure, treatment of a wide range of jaw deformities | Comprehensive diagnostics with 3D technology, detailed VSP, clear post - operative care plan | Coordination with multiple specialists, personalized care |
| Weill Cornell Medicine and New York - Presbyterian | Multidisciplinary care for orthognathic surgery | Detailed pre - surgical evaluation, long - term orthodontic pre - treatment, post - operative orthodontic fine - tuning | Convenient, individualized care, focus on patient support |
| Columbia University College of Dental Medicine (Columbiadoctors Dentistry) | Use of advanced diagnostic and surgical techniques with digital modeling | Standard pre - surgical orthodontic treatment, computer - assisted surgical planning | Close collaboration with orthodontist and dentist |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital
Expertise of the Medical Team
The experience and skill of the oral and maxillofacial surgeons, orthodontists, and other specialists are crucial. Look for hospitals where the medical staff has a proven track record in performing the specific procedure you need. For example, at Mount Sinai, the surgeons are experienced in both traditional orthognathic surgery and innovative procedures like Jaw in a Day. Dr. Larry Wolford, although not affiliated with these three hospitals directly, is a well - known example of an expert in maxillofacial surgery, orthognathic surgery, and TMJ surgery with over three decades of experience and many successful surgeries to his name. This kind of expertise can significantly impact the success of your treatment.
Technology and Treatment Options
Advanced technology can improve the accuracy and outcome of surgeries. Hospitals like Mount Sinai use 3D x - rays, VSP, and 3D printers for surgical planning. Weill Cornell Medicine and Columbiadoctors Dentistry also use computer - assisted digital surgical planning. The availability of a variety of treatment options is also important. For instance, if you have a specific jaw condition that may require a less common approach, a hospital with a broader range of treatment options may be more suitable.
Patient - Centric Care
You want a hospital that provides personalized care and supports you throughout the treatment process. Weill Cornell Medicine emphasizes convenient, individualized care and creates a supportive environment. Mount Sinai coordinates care with multiple specialists to meet all patient needs, and Columbiadoctors Dentistry works closely with your existing dental team. Patient testimonials can also give you an idea of how well a hospital takes care of its patients. Positive testimonials often mention factors such as communication, empathy, and post - operative support.
Location and Accessibility
Considering the number of pre - operative, surgical, and post - operative appointments, the location of the hospital is important. Mount Sinai has multiple locations throughout New York City, making it easier for patients to access care close to home. This can reduce the stress and inconvenience associated with traveling to and from the hospital for regular check - ups.
What to Expect During and After Treatment
During Treatment
Most treatment processes start with a series of consultations and diagnostic tests. You'll have detailed discussions with your medical team about your goals, expectations, and the potential risks and benefits of the procedure. The actual surgery, whether it's orthognathic surgery or jaw reduction, is usually performed under general anesthesia and may take several hours. During the surgery, the medical team will take every precaution to ensure your safety and the success of the procedure.
After surgery, you can expect to stay in the hospital for a short period, typically one to two nights. You'll be closely monitored for any signs of complications, and the medical staff will provide pain management and other necessary care. You'll also receive specific instructions on how to take care of yourself during the initial recovery period, such as diet restrictions and wound care.
After Treatment
The post - operative period is a crucial time for healing. You'll need to follow a liquid or soft - food diet for several weeks to allow the bones and tissues to heal properly. You may also need to wear elastics or other orthodontic appliances to help the jaws and teeth adjust to their new positions. Physical activity will be limited for a while, and you'll have regular follow - up appointments with your orthodontist and surgeon to monitor your progress. The post - operative orthodontic phase, which can last several months, is important for fine - tuning the bite and ensuring long - term stability of the teeth and jaws.
Conclusion
New York City offers several top - tier hospitals for improving wide mandibular angles. Mount Sinai, Weill Cornell Medicine and New York - Presbyterian, and Columbia University College of Dental Medicine (Columbiadoctors Dentistry) each have their own strengths in terms of services, technology, and patient - centric care. When choosing a hospital, it's important to consider factors such as the expertise of the medical team, the available technology and treatment options, patient - centric care, and location and accessibility.
If you're considering treatment for a wide mandibular angle, take the time to research these hospitals, schedule consultations, and discuss your options with the medical teams. This will help you make an informed decision and increase the chances of a successful outcome. Share this article with others who may be interested in learning more about improving mandibular angles in New York City, and explore related topics to further your knowledge of oral and maxillofacial surgery.
