Distraction osteogenesis in Denver, CO
Colorado Oral Surgery provides distraction osteogenesis in Denver, Colorado for patients who need gradual jaw or facial bone lengthening. This oral surgery technique can increase bone volume where it is needed for function, appearance, or future dental and orthodontic treatment.
Distraction osteogenesis explained
Distraction osteogenesis is a method that stimulates the body to form new bone between two segments after a careful bone cut. A small device called a distractor is attached to the bone. After a short healing pause, the device is turned at a controlled rate, slowly moving the segments apart.
In the jaws, this approach can help address underdeveloped or asymmetrical bones, expand bone for implants or orthodontic movement, and improve airway or bite relationships.
How distraction osteogenesis can help
Creates additional native bone for jaw lengthening surgery and facial bone reconstruction
Can improve bite alignment and make space for teeth or dental implants
May enhance airway size in selected cases of maxillary or mandibular deficiency
Often avoids harvesting large bone grafts from other sites
Your distraction osteogenesis experience
Before surgery: Patients receive preoperative instructions, which may include fasting guidelines, medication adjustments, and oral hygiene steps. Smoking and vaping delay bone healing and should be stopped well in advance.
After surgery: Swelling, bruising, and temporary numbness are common during the first week. Most people use cold compresses and prescribed pain control. A soft or liquid diet protects the area while it heals.
What to expect
- Timeline: evaluation, surgery, latency, activation, consolidation, then device removal
- Comfort: pressure or tightness during turns is common and usually brief
- Risks: infection, device loosening, relapse, nerve changes can occur; careful follow-up helps reduce these risks
How the process works
1) Planning and evaluation
An exam, records, and imaging (often 3D scans) define the amount and direction of movement. Coordination with an orthodontist is common.
2) Surgery
Under anesthesia, the surgeon places a controlled bone cut (osteotomy) and secures the distraction device. Most incisions are inside the mouth.
3) Activation phase
The device is turned at a prescribed schedule, commonly up to about 1 mm per day. Turning can be done at home with provided tools and instructions.
4) Consolidation and removal
After lengthening, the device stays in place while the new bone hardens. The device is then removed at a brief follow-up procedure.