About Orthodontics

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Surgical Orthodontics

What is surgical orthodontics?
Just as orthodontics repositions teeth, surgical orthodontics (also known as orthognathic surgery) corrects irregularities in the size, shape, or position of the jaw bones to improve a patient’s functional ability and/or facial appearance. Braces are always used in conjunction with jaw surgery, so that the teeth can be placed in their proper positions before, during, and after your surgical procedure.

Who needs surgical orthodontics?
Your orthodontist will consider surgical orthodontic treatment for non-growing teenaged and adult patients with certain improper bites and facial esthetic concerns that are the result of skeletal irregularities. All growth must be completed before jaw surgery can be performed, usually by age 16 for girls and 18 for boys. However, pre-surgical tooth movements can begin one to two years prior to these ages.

How does it work?
During your orthodontic treatment, which usually lasts 6-18 months, you will wear braces and visit your orthodontist for scheduled adjustments. As your teeth move with the braces, your bite will generally, temporarily worsen as dental compensations naturally created due to your skeletal imbalance are relieved. This, however, is necessary, for when your jaws are placed into proper alignment during orthognathic surgery, the teeth will then fit into their proper positions.
Surgery is performed in the hospital or surgery center by an oral surgeon, and will take several hours, depending on the amount and type of surgery needed. In lower jaw surgery, the jawbone behind the teeth is separated and the tooth-bearing portion is moved forward or backward, as needed. In upper jaw surgery, the jaw can be repositioned forward or backward, or the jaw can be raised or lowered, or widened. Certain movements may require the jaws to be separated, with bone added/removed to achieve the proper alignment and stability. Other facial bones that contribute to alignment may also be repositioned or augmented.

You should be able to return to school or work after surgery in about two weeks. After the necessary healing time (about 6 weeks), your orthodontist will begin to "fine-tune" your bite. In most cases, braces are removed within 6 to 12 months following surgery. After your braces are removed, you will wear a retainer to maintain your beautiful new smile.