What is Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a specialized treatment to correct jaw irregularities. This type of surgery not only improves your ability to chew, speak, and breathe but also enhances facial appearance by aligning the jaws. Since moving the jaws affects tooth alignment, surgical orthodontics is always paired with orthodontic treatments such as braces or Invisalign. This ensures that teeth are properly positioned following surgery. In some cases, Invisalign may be used as an alternative to traditional metal braces during the preparation phase.
Who Needs Surgical Orthodontics?
Orthodontists recommend surgical orthodontics for non-growing adults with:
- Improper bites
- Facial aesthetic concerns
Jaw growth is typically complete by:
- Age 16 for girls
- Age 19 for boys
Surgical procedures can only be performed once growth is complete. However, orthodontic preparation, such as pre-surgical tooth movement, can begin 1-2 years earlier to ready the jaw and teeth for surgery.
How Does Surgical Orthodontics Work?
Pre-Surgical Orthodontics:
Before surgery, you will wear braces or Invisalign for 6-18 months. During this phase, you will visit your orthodontist regularly for adjustments. As your teeth move, your bite might temporarily worsen, but this is a necessary step for successful jaw alignment during surgery.The Surgery:
Orthognathic surgery is performed by a maxillofacial oral surgeon. Depending on the complexity, surgery can take several hours. Common procedures include:- Lower Jaw Surgery: Separating the jawbone behind the teeth and repositioning the tooth-bearing portion forward or backward.
- Upper Jaw Surgery: Adjusting the jaw forward, backward, raising, or lowering it as needed.
- Additional Adjustments: Other facial bones may be repositioned or augmented to achieve proper alignment.
Post-Surgical Recovery:
After surgery, most patients can return to work or school within two weeks. Healing typically takes about 4-8 weeks, during which your orthodontist will refine and “fine-tune” your bite.
Long-Term Results
Once your braces are removed, you will wear a retainer to maintain your new smile and jaw alignment. Surgical orthodontics offers more than just functional benefits—it transforms your confidence by improving facial harmony and your overall quality of life.
This combined approach of braces and surgery ensures precise results, helping patients enjoy a healthier and more balanced smile for years to come.
