People who can benefit from orthognathic surgery include those with an improper bite, or jaws that are positioned incorrectly. Jaw growth is a gradual process and in some instances, the upper and lower jaws may grow at different rates. The result can be a host of problems that may affect chewing function, speech, or long-term oral health and appearance. Injury to the jaw and birth defects can also affect jaw alignment. Orthodontics alone can correct bite problems when only the teeth are involved. Orthognathic surgery may be required for the jaws when repositioning is necessary. Difficulty in the following areas should be evaluated:nnDifficulty in chewing, biting, or swallowingnSpeech problemsnChronic jaw or TMJ painnOpen bitenProtruding jawnBreathing problems