Surgical Orthodontics to Transform Your Smile and Bite
Sometimes, achieving a healthy, functional smile requires more than braces alone. That’s where surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, comes in. This specialized treatment combines the expertise of an orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to correct severe jaw misalignments, improve oral function, and enhance facial aesthetics.
What Is Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics is used to correct jaw irregularities and complex bite problems that can’t be fixed with braces alone. By repositioning the jaws, this treatment improves a patient’s ability to chew, speak, and breathe, while also delivering dramatic aesthetic improvements.
It’s a carefully coordinated process between our doctors and a skilled surgeon to ensure both function and appearance are optimized.
Who Is a Candidate for Orthognathic Surgery?
This treatment is typically recommended for adult patients who:
Have completed jaw growth (usually around age 16 for females, 18 for males)
Experience bite problems that can’t be corrected with orthodontics alone
Have issues with chewing, speaking, or breathing due to jaw misalignment
Have facial imbalances that affect confidence or comfort
Orthodontic preparation can begin before surgery, even if jaw growth is still ongoing, with braces used to move the teeth into optimal positions beforehand.
How the Process Works
In some cases, braces alone may worsen the bite instead of correcting it. When this happens, your orthodontist may determine that jaw surgery is the best path forward.
Here’s what to expect:
Pre-surgical orthodontics – Braces are used to align your teeth in preparation for surgery
Orthognathic surgery – Performed by an oral surgeon under general anesthesia, this procedure repositions the upper and/or lower jaw
Post-surgical orthodontics – After healing, minor bite adjustments are made with braces
Retention – Once braces are removed (typically 6–12 months post-surgery), a retainer is worn to maintain results
Common surgical techniques include moving the jaw forward or backward, raising or lowering it, or even reshaping facial bones for better function and balance.
Recovery and Results
Initial recovery: Most patients can return to work or school within two weeks
Full healing: Occurs over 4 to 8 weeks
Final phase: Braces are worn for several months post-surgery for fine-tuning, followed by retainer use to preserve your new smile
The result is a dramatic improvement in both function and appearance, often leading to greater comfort, better oral health, and increased self-confidence.
Is Surgical Orthodontics Right for You?
If you’ve been told you have a complex bite issue or jaw misalignment, or if you’ve struggled with eating, speaking, or breathing comfortably, surgical orthodontics may be the answer. Contact our office today to schedule a complimentary consultation and learn more about how this advanced treatment can change your life.
