Surgical orthodontics, also known asorthognathic surgery, is done when jaw surgery must be combined with braces treatment. This method helps correct serious dental and facial issues that regular orthodontics cannot.
Although braces do an excellent job of aligning your teeth, they are not enough when there is a severe issue with your jaw. In these situations, corrective jaw procedures may be necessary to improve both function and appearance.
An orthodontist works with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to do surgical orthodontics. They work to achieve the greatest possible results. If you have been dealing with jaw misalignment, you may have considered surgical orthodontics as a solution. Here, we will talk about what it is, how it works, and when it is typically recommended.
When Is Surgical Orthodontics Needed?
Jaw surgery is not essential to everyone; some people can get by with just braces. But if your jaw is badly misaligned, surgical dentistry may be an ideal solution. This treatment is usually needed for issues such as:
- Serious Underbite or Overbite: Overbites and underbites can occur when the jaw is not in the proper position. This may lead your teeth not to line up properly as you chew, making eating uncomfortable.
- Differences in the Jaw: The upper and lower jaws do not always align because they grow at different rates. This may result in issues with the look of your face and how you use your mouth.
- Concerns about facial aesthetics: If your jaw affects your facial balance, jaw surgery can help restore it. It may make your face look more even and natural.
- Breathing or Sleeping Problems: Sometimes, it may lead to issues such as sleep apnea or make it difficult to breathe through the nose. These issues can be solved through surgery by realigning the jaw.
How Does Surgical Orthodontics Work?
Orthodontic surgery treatment requires multiple steps. Here’s an easy way to understand every step of the procedure.
1. Initial Consultation and Planning
Before having jaw surgery, you will meet with an orthodontist to check your teeth and bite. They will use X-rays and 3D scans to provide a greater look at your teeth and jaw.
After reviewing everything, your orthodontist may team up with a jaw surgeon to create a plan that best suits your needs. You might have to wear braces for a while before surgery to align your teeth and prepare your jaw.
2. Pre-Surgery Treatment with Braces
Most patients need to wear braces for a period before they undergo surgery. The idea is to get the teeth into a better position. This process may take several months or even more than a year. It all depends on the complexity of the situation. To achieve the best results, you should follow your orthodontist’s advice during this period.
3. The Surgery Itself
The corrective jaw procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, the surgeon makes minor cuts in the jaw and pulls it into a more correct position. This could include cutting the bones. Then they are shifted to a more useful and natural-looking position. After the jaw is in the right position, the surgeon fixes it with tiny plates and screws.
4. Post-Surgery Recovery and Healing
You will need some time to relax and recover after surgery. It is usual to have swelling, bruising, or pain after surgery. Your surgeon and orthodontist will guide you through the entire process. In many cases, patients need to wear braces again after the jaw has healed to correct their tooth alignment.
Everyone’s recovery period is different, but it often lasts from a few weeks to a few months. During recovery, make sure you carefully follow your dentist’s instructions. This contains food rules and cleaning instructions to prevent issues.
What Are the Benefits of Surgical Orthodontics?
For patients who have severe dental or facial concerns, surgical orthodontics can be an excellent option. Here are some of the main benefits:
Improved Function
When the jaw is misaligned, many patients experience problems with chewing, speaking, and even breathing. Improving these functions with jaw surgery can make daily tasks simpler and more comfortable.
Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal
Corrective jaw surgery helps improve your facial appearance by making everything look more even and natural. Many people say that their faces appear more balanced and symmetrical after surgery. This usually boosts their confidence and makes them feel better about themselves.
Long-Term Results
Braces alone can only improve teeth alignment. Jaw surgery, on the other hand, addresses the roots of jaw misalignments. This means that results usually last longer and require less treatment or future changes.
Better Oral Health
Fixing a misaligned jaw can make it much easier to maintain your dental care. Teeth that are properly aligned are easier to clean and less likely to wear. This protects your gums and reduces the chance of tooth decay.
What to Expect After Surgery?
You will usually experience minor swelling, bruising, and slight discomfort after jaw surgery with braces. These symptoms are mild and often disappear within a few weeks. You should rest and eat soft foods to avoid putting pressure on your jaw. As you heal, you will need to check both your orthodontist and your oral surgeon. These appointments make sure everything works properly. Patients’ braces may need to be adjusted as they heal.
Is Surgical Orthodontics Right for You?
If patients have severe jaw misalignment or difficulties that braces alone cannot correct, surgical orthodontics may be needed. It can help to fix problems that traditional treatment cannot handle. Patients should consult with a skilled oral surgeon or orthodontist. This makes it easier to decide the best treatment for their specific needs. Orthodontic surgery includes both braces and jaw surgery. It helps patients chew properly and improves the appearance of their smile.
Why Choose Northeast Orthodontics in ST. Petersburg for Surgical Orthodontics?
You can choose Northeast Orthodontics in St. Petersburg for surgical orthodontics because of our 20+ years of experience serving the community. Led by Dr. Reynolds, our team offers exceptional care and expertise, utilizing the latest orthodontic treatment techniques.
Dr. Reynolds, who is highly skilled in handling surgical orthodontic cases and collaborates closely with trusted local surgeons to ensure the best results for our patients. Whether you’re in St. Petersburg or Seminole, we’re dedicated to meeting your orthodontic needs with personalized care.
Schedule Your Consultation
To achieve a healthier, more confident smile, schedule a FREE consultation with our team today. Whether you need braces or jaw surgery, we will guide you through the procedure step by step. We will make the procedure as simple and comfortable as possible.
