Surgical Orthodontics
Comprehensive Care for Complex Jaw Discrepancies
Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a specialized treatment approach that combines orthodontic care with corrective jaw surgery. It is recommended for patients whose jaw discrepancies are too severe to be corrected with braces or aligners alone. Conditions such as significant underbites, overbites, open bites, and facial asymmetry often have a skeletal component that requires surgical repositioning of the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both.
The process begins with a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, including 3D imaging, cephalometric analysis, and detailed treatment planning between your orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Together, we develop a coordinated plan that aligns your teeth and repositions your jaw bones to achieve optimal function and aesthetics. Every detail of the surgical plan is mapped digitally before treatment begins, ensuring precision and predictability.
Prior to surgery, you will undergo a pre-surgical orthodontic phase in which braces are used to align your teeth within each arch and position them so they will fit together correctly once the jaw is repositioned. This phase typically lasts twelve to eighteen months. The surgery itself is performed in a hospital setting under general anesthesia, and modern techniques use internal fixation with small titanium plates and screws, eliminating the need for jaw wiring in most cases.
Following surgery, a post-surgical orthodontic phase fine-tunes your bite and ensures the teeth settle into their ideal positions. The result is a dramatic improvement in jaw function, facial balance, and long-term dental stability. Our team provides comprehensive support throughout every phase of treatment, from initial planning through final retention.
Key Benefits
What to Expect
Your surgical orthodontic journey starts with an in-depth consultation involving both your orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. We will take comprehensive diagnostic records including 3D cone beam CT scans, digital dental impressions, and facial photographs. These records allow us to analyze your jaw relationship in detail and plan the precise surgical movements needed.
During the pre-surgical phase, braces are placed to align your teeth and prepare them for the new jaw position. You will attend regular adjustment appointments throughout this phase. When your teeth are in the correct pre-surgical positions, we will coordinate your surgery date and provide thorough instructions to help you prepare. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and most patients stay in the hospital for one to two nights.
After surgery, you will follow a structured recovery protocol that includes a modified diet, prescribed medications, and scheduled follow-up visits to monitor healing. Once initial recovery is complete, your orthodontist will continue making adjustments to fine-tune your bite. Upon completion, your braces are removed and a retention plan is put in place to maintain your results for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
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