Prognathism is an
extension or bulging out (protrusion) of the lower jaw (mandible). It occurs
when the teeth are not properly aligned due to the shape of the face bones.
Considerations
Prognathism may cause
malocclusion (misalignment of the biting surfaces of the upper and lower
teeth). It can give a people an angry, or fighter's, appearance. Prognathism
may be a symptom of other syndromes or conditions.
Causes
An extended (protruding)
jaw can be part of a person's normal face shape that is present at birth.
It can also be caused by
inherited conditions, such as Crouzon syndrome or basal
cell nevus syndrome.
It may develop over time
in children or adults as the result of conditions such as gigantism or acromegaly.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
A dentist or orthodontist may
be able to about treat abnormal alignment of the jaw and teeth. Your primary
health care provider should also be involved to check for underlying medical
disorders that can be associated with prognathism.
Call a health care
provider if:
- You have difficulty talking, biting, or chewing
related to the abnormal jaw alignment.
- You have concerns about jaw alignment.
What to Expect at Your Office Visit
The health care provider
will perform a physical
examination and
ask questions regarding your medical history. Questions may include:
- Is there any family history of an unusual jaw shape?
- Is there difficulty talking, biting, or chewing?
- What other symptoms do you have?
Diagnostic tests may
include:
- Skull
x-ray
- Dental
x-rays
- Imprints of the bite (a plaster mold is made of the
teeth)
This condition may be
treated with surgery. An oral surgeon, plastic facial surgeon, or ENT
specialist may perform this surgery.
Alternative Names
Extended chin
References
Taub DI, Jacobs JMS,
Jacobs JS. Anthropometry, cephalometry, and orthognathic surgery. In: Neligan
PC, ed.Plastic Surgery. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders
Elsevier; 2013:chap 16.
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