Orthognathic Clinical background for S&R - Anatomy

This course will be discussing Orthognathic Terminology, craniofacial skeletal components, teeth and occlusion, as well as blood vessels and nerves.

1. Orthognathic Terminology: 
Orthognathic terminology refers to the specific directional and positional terms used in orthognathic surgery. These terms help describe the movements and relationships of the jaws and facial structures during surgical procedures.

2. Craniofacial Skeletal Components: 
The craniofacial skeletal components refer to the bones that make up the face and skull. The key bones involved in orthognathic surgery include the maxilla (upper jaw), mandible (lower jaw), zygomatic bones (cheekbones), and frontal bone (forehead). These bones play a crucial role in determining facial aesthetics, occlusion, and overall facial harmony.

3. Teeth and Occlusion: 
Teeth and occlusion are important considerations in orthognathic surgery. Occlusion refers to the alignment and contact between the upper and lower teeth when the jaws are closed. Proper occlusion ensures effective chewing, speaking, and overall oral health. Orthognathic surgery may involve repositioning the jaws to improve occlusion and correct malocclusion issues such as overbite, underbite, or crossbite.

4. Blood Vessels and Nerves:
During orthognathic surgery, it's crucial to consider the location and preservation of blood vessels and nerves in the facial region. The face has a complex network of blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the tissues. Similarly, there are various nerves responsible for facial sensation and motor function. Surgeons take great care to avoid damage to these structures during surgery to minimize the risk of complications and ensure optimal healing and functional outcomes.