Abstract

Abstract:Prognathism is a common maxillofacial deformity, causing not only dental malocclusion, but creating psychologic problems due to the “jut-jawed” appearance characteristic of the deformity. Surgical correction of prognathism has been done since the turn of the century, although the operative technics have changed. Osteotomy, through the vertical ramus of the mandible, appears to be the procedure of choice today. We use this technic, finding it to be a satisfactory approach to the problem of true mandibular overgrowth (“true prognathism”) or undergrowth of the maxilla (“pseudoprognathism”). We have found it extremely important to work with a dental team in correcting prognathism: the general dentist for restoration, the orthodontist for repositioning the teeth, and the prosthodontist for construction of dentures. In some instances of cleft palate (a clinical problem in which we have developed a special interest), speech bulbs are helpful. This report describes our operative technic and includes several case reports.