Introduction

Underbite and mandibular protrusion are dental and skeletal issues that can have a significant impact on a person's oral health, appearance, and quality of life. These conditions can lead to problems with chewing, speaking, and self - confidence. In New York City, there are several hospitals renowned for their expertise in correcting underbite and mandibular protrusion. This article will delve into the top 3 hospitals in New York City for these corrections, providing in - depth information about their services, teams, and patient care.

What are Underbite and Mandibular Protrusion?

An underbite, also known as a negative under - jet, occurs when the mandible (lower jaw) protrudes in relation to the maxilla (upper jaw). This makes the chin look overly prominent. Mandibular protrusion, or prognathism, is essentially the same condition where the lower jaw appears more prominent or longer. Developmental delays and genetic factors generally cause underbites and mandibular protrusion.

The consequences of these conditions can be both physical and psychological. Physically, they can cause difficulties in chewing food properly, leading to digestive problems. Speech may also be affected, and there can be an increased risk of dental decay and periodontal disease. Psychologically, individuals may experience low self - esteem due to the altered facial appearance.

Top 3 Hospitals for Underbite and Mandibular Protrusion Correction in New York City

1. Mount Sinai Hospital

Overview

Mount Sinai Hospital is a large tertiary medical center with a high - reputation for its orthopedic and oral - maxillofacial services. According to US News Best Hospitals, it is ranked #11 in orthopedics hospitals in New York City, with a score of 74.5/100, and is nationally ranked in 12 adult specialties and 4 pediatric specialties.

Specialized Teams

Mount Sinai's plastic and reconstructive surgeons, along with oral and maxillofacial surgeons, work as a team of specialists. They coordinate patient care with dentists, orthodontists, and other relevant plastic surgeons as needed. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive and personalized treatment.

Conditions Treated

The hospital treats a wide range of jaw - related conditions, including mandibular hyperplasia (prognathism), which is relevant to underbite and mandibular protrusion. Other conditions they handle are mandibular hypoplasia, maxillary hypoplasia, vertical maxillary deficiency (short face syndrome), and vertical maxillary excess (long face syndrome). These jaw deformities can occur due to different rates of growth of the upper or lower jaw, birth defects, traumatic accidents, or the growth of tumors.

Unique Procedures

Mount Sinai is at the forefront of developing cutting - edge solutions, such as the "Jaw in a Day" procedure. 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 that look exactly like the patients’ existing teeth. It combines years of experience in surgical treatment of oral cancers with sophisticated computer - assisted planning software. The procedure offers patients an immediate post - surgical restoration of their smiles and a significantly reduced timeline for implantation of permanent teeth.

Advantages for Patients

• Enhanced overall well - being as patients can have teeth immediately after surgery.
• Faster healing without scarring or deformity, facilitating quicker implantation of the permanent dental prosthesis.
• A shorter time to return to regular chewing and diet.
• A choice in permanent prosthetic options such as ceramic, zirconium, and titanium.

2. Weill Cornell Medicine and New York - Presbyterian Hospital

Overview

New York - Presbyterian Hospital - Columbia and Cornell is another top - notch institution. It is ranked #5 in orthopedics hospitals in New York City according to US News, with a score of 80.0/100, and is nationally ranked in 14 adult specialties and 10 pediatric specialties. Weill Cornell Medicine's oral and maxillofacial surgeons are an integral part of the team providing treatment for underbite and mandibular protrusion.

Orthognathic Surgery Expertise

Orthognathic surgery is the main treatment offered for underbite and mandibular protrusion. The goal of this surgery is to correct developmental growth abnormalities of the jaws and facial bones. Patients with these abnormalities usually present with an imperfect positioning of the teeth when the jaws are closed, which can affect chewing, speech, and overall health, as well as the esthetic appearance of the face. Surgical treatment is usually conducted in combination with orthodontics.

Why Choose Weill Cornell Medicine and New York - Presbyterian?

• Convenient, individualized care: Patients receive personalized care that is comprehensive and compassionate. The medical staff is sensitive to patients' needs and creates a supportive, comfortable environment while offering highly specialized care.
• Multidisciplinary care from leading experts: Orthognathic surgeries require comprehensive, collaborative care from both orthodontics and surgery. This unique multidisciplinary approach coordinates complex care, providing focused support before, during, and after the surgery.

Patient Journey

Before surgery, patients have initial visits focused on determining the exact type of jaw surgery needed. Data is collected in the form of radiographs, measurements of the face and teeth, clinical photographs, and health history. The team then analyzes the data, creates models of the bite, and develops a comprehensive plan. Patients usually need to work with an orthodontist to move their teeth into the correct position within the jawbone, which typically involves six to twelve months of braces. Once the teeth are close to alignment, the surgery is scheduled. The surgery takes place at New York - Presbyterian Hospital, Cornell campus, a top - ranked hospital in the country. After surgery, patients stay in the hospital for one to two nights. Approximately six weeks later, they return to the orthodontist to finish aligning their teeth to the new jaw position. For the first six to eight weeks after surgery, the bones are healing, and patients are restricted to a diet of liquids and soft foods with limited activity.

3. Columbia University College of Dental Medicine in conjunction with New York - Presbyterian Hospital

Overview

Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, working in conjunction with New York - Presbyterian Hospital (which as mentioned earlier, is highly ranked), offers excellent treatment for underbite and mandibular protrusion. The hospital is well - equipped with advanced facilities and a team of experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons.

Treatment Approach

When an improper bite is due to misaligned jawbones rather than just teeth, orthognathic surgery is recommended. The process starts with an initial evaluation where the oral and maxillofacial surgeons at Columbiadoctors dentistry collect data through radiographs, face and tooth measurements, clinical photographs, and health history. They then analyze the data, create bite models, and develop a comprehensive plan. Similar to other hospitals, patients usually undergo six to twelve months of orthodontic treatment with braces to move the teeth into the correct position before surgery. Once the teeth are aligned, computer - assisted digital surgical planning is performed, and patients are given instructions for the pre - surgery period. The surgery is carried out at New York - Presbyterian Hospital or the Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital of New York - Presbyterian, both of which are top - ranked. After surgery, patients have a recovery period similar to the other hospitals, with restrictions on diet and activity.

Why Choose Columbia University College of Dental Medicine?

• Expertise in orthognathic surgery: The oral surgeons have extensive experience in the area of orthognathic surgery and use the most advanced diagnostic and surgical techniques available today.
• Digital modeling: They can illustrate the realignment with digital modeling so that patients can visualize what the surgery will achieve, which helps in the decision - making process.
• Collaboration: The team works closely with the patient's orthodontist and dentist throughout the process, ensuring seamless and coordinated care.

Comparison of the Top 3 Hospitals

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Underbite and Mandibular Protrusion Correction

Expertise of the Medical Team

The experience and qualifications of the oral and maxillofacial surgeons, plastic surgeons, orthodontists, and other relevant medical staff are crucial. Look for hospitals where the teams have a proven track record in treating underbite and mandibular protrusion. For example, the surgeons at Mount Sinai have extensive experience in handling complex jaw deformities, and the orthognathic surgery teams at Weill Cornell and Columbia have expertise in the combination of orthodontics and surgery.

Treatment Options

Different hospitals may offer different treatment options or innovative procedures. As seen with Mount Sinai's "Jaw in a Day" procedure, having access to advanced techniques can make a significant difference in the patient's experience and outcome. Consider whether the hospital offers a variety of treatment options that suit your specific condition and needs.

Patient - Centric Care

Personalized care, compassion, and support throughout the treatment process are essential. Hospitals like Weill Cornell Medicine focus on providing individualized care in a comfortable and supportive environment. Look for hospitals that take the time to understand your concerns, answer your questions, and involve you in the decision - making process.

Hospital Reputation

A hospital's reputation, as reflected in its rankings (such as those from US News Best Hospitals) and patient reviews, can give you an idea of the quality of care. Highly ranked hospitals like New York - Presbyterian Hospital and Mount Sinai Hospital have a reputation for excellence in various medical specialties, which is reassuring when choosing a hospital for a complex procedure like underbite and mandibular protrusion correction.

Cost and Insurance

Cost is an important factor. Check whether the hospital participates in your insurance plan. For example, Weill Cornell Medicine does not participate with commercial dental insurance but participates with many medical insurances for oral surgery care. Understanding the cost - related aspects upfront can help you avoid unexpected financial burdens.

Pre - Treatment Considerations

Consultation

Schedule consultations with the hospitals you are considering. During the consultation, ask about the surgeon's experience, the treatment plan, the expected outcomes, and the potential risks and complications. This is also a good opportunity to get a feel for the hospital environment and the bedside manner of the medical staff.

Orthodontic Preparation

As most underbite and mandibular protrusion corrections involve a combination of orthodontics and surgery, you may need to start orthodontic treatment with braces before the surgery. Make sure you understand the timeline and requirements for this orthodontic preparation phase.

Medical Evaluation

Undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation to ensure that you are in good health for the surgery. This may include blood tests, radiographs, and other diagnostic procedures to assess your overall health and the condition of your jaws and teeth.

Post - Treatment Recovery

Hospital Stay

Most patients can expect to stay in the hospital for one to two nights after the surgery. During this time, the medical staff will monitor your recovery, manage pain, and ensure that there are no complications.

Dietary Restrictions

For the first six to eight weeks after surgery, you will be restricted to a diet of liquids and soft foods. This is to allow the bones to heal properly. Your surgeon will provide specific dietary guidelines, and you may also be referred to a nutritionist for advice on maintaining a balanced diet during this period.

Activity Limitations

Your activity will be limited during the initial recovery period. You should avoid strenuous activities and contact sports. As your bones heal, your surgeon will gradually allow you to increase your activity level.

Follow - up Appointments

Regular follow - up appointments with your surgeon and orthodontist are essential. These appointments are used to monitor the healing process, adjust the orthodontic treatment, and ensure that the jaws are properly aligned. You may need to visit the orthodontist approximately six weeks after surgery to finish aligning your teeth to the new jaw position.

Conclusion

Correcting underbite and mandibular protrusion is a complex process that requires the expertise of a skilled medical team. In New York City, Mount Sinai Hospital, Weill Cornell Medicine and New York - Presbyterian Hospital, and Columbia University College of Dental Medicine in conjunction with New York - Presbyterian Hospital stand out as the top 3 hospitals for these corrections. Each hospital offers unique features, a patient - centric approach, and access to advanced treatment options.

If you or someone you know is suffering from underbite or mandibular protrusion, take the time to research these hospitals, schedule consultations, and make an informed decision based on your specific needs and circumstances. Don't let these conditions affect your oral health, appearance, and quality of life any longer. Seek the help of a top - notch hospital in New York City today!