Surgical Orthodontics (Orthognathic Surgery)
Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a form of orthodontic treatment used to correct severe conditions involving bad bites, jawbone abnormalities, and malocclusion. Oral and maxillofacial surgery is one of the nine recognized dental specialties and focuses on treating complex craniofacial conditions affecting the mouth, jaws, face, and skull.
If surgical orthodontics is recommended, your orthodontist will work closely with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to ensure you receive coordinated, comprehensive care.
When Might Surgical Orthodontics Be Needed?
Surgical orthodontics is most often used to treat adults with improper bites or significant aesthetic or functional concerns. Jaw growth typically stops around age sixteen for females and age eighteen for males, and orthognathic surgery can only be performed once jaw growth is complete.
Surgery may be recommended when the jaws do not align properly and orthodontic treatment alone cannot achieve a healthy, functional bite. Orthognathic surgery corrects the jaw alignment, after which orthodontic braces are used to position the teeth correctly.
How Do I Know If I Need Orthognathic Surgery?
Your orthodontist will determine whether orthognathic surgery is necessary as part of your treatment plan. Based on the alignment of your jaws and the severity of your bite issues, surgery may or may not be required.
How Does Orthognathic Surgery Work?
Orthognathic surgery is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in a hospital setting. The length of the surgery varies depending on the complexity of each case and may take several hours.
Following surgery, a recovery period of approximately two weeks is typical. Because this is a major procedure, patients are encouraged to plan time away from work or school during the healing process.
Once healing has occurred, your orthodontist will continue treatment to fine-tune your bite. Braces are usually worn after surgery and are typically removed within six to twelve months. After braces are removed, a retainer is worn to help maintain the results.
What Are the Risks of Orthognathic Surgery?
As with any major medical procedure, orthognathic surgery carries certain risks. However, this type of surgery has been performed safely for many years in hospitals and specialty practices.
If you have concerns about undergoing orthognathic surgery, please contact our practice. We are happy to answer your questions and provide additional information. Your comfort and understanding are important to us.
What Are the Rewards of Orthognathic Surgery?
For many patients, the greatest reward of orthognathic surgery is achieving a healthy, functional bite and a confident, attractive smile that lasts a lifetime.
Whether you need treatment to correct a bad bite, malocclusion, or jaw abnormality, surgical orthodontics can restore comfort, improve function, and help you smile with confidence for years to come.