Posted December 17, 2024 at 9:51 pm by Herzberg Orthodontics & filed under Surgical Orthodontics

When traditional orthodontic treatments like braces aren't enough to correct severe bite and jaw alignment issues, surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, can be a transformative solution. This specialized procedure combines the expertise of orthodontists and oral surgeons to address complex dental and facial problems, leading to a healthier, more functional, and aesthetically pleasing smile.

What is Surgical Orthodontics?

Surgical orthodontics is a specialized field that combines the expertise of orthodontists and oral surgeons to correct severe bite and jaw alignment issues that cannot be addressed solely with traditional orthodontic treatments like braces. It's a two-phase process designed to achieve optimal functional and aesthetic results.

Phase 1: Orthodontic Preparation

Before the surgical phase, patients typically undergo a period of orthodontic treatment using braces or clear aligners. This phase aims to:

Align the teeth: The orthodontist moves the teeth into their ideal positions, preparing them for the surgical correction of the underlying skeletal issues.
Level the bite: The orthodontist works to level the bite, ensuring that the upper and lower teeth occlude correctly.
Correct any minor bite problems: If any minor bite issues can be resolved without surgery, the orthodontist will address them during this phase.

Phase 2: Surgical Correction

Once the teeth are in their ideal positions, the surgical phase can begin. This involves:

Jaw Surgery: An oral surgeon will perform surgery to reposition the jawbones. This may involve procedures such as:
Jaw Advancement: Moving the jaw forward or backward to correct underbites or overbites.
Jaw Resection: Removing excess bone to correct protruding jaws.
Jaw Expansion: Widening the jaw to correct crossbites.
Bone Grafting: In some cases, bone grafting may be necessary to provide additional support for the repositioned jawbones.

Phase 3: Post-Surgical Orthodontics

After surgery, patients will typically wear braces again for some time to:

Fine-tune the bite: The orthodontist will make any final adjustments to the bite, ensuring that the teeth are properly aligned.
Stabilize the results: The braces help to stabilize the new position of the jawbones and teeth.

Why Choose Surgical Orthodontics?

Surgical orthodontics offers a comprehensive solution for individuals with severe dental and facial abnormalities that cannot be corrected with traditional orthodontic treatments alone. Here are some key reasons why you might consider surgical orthodontics:

Addressing Complex Dental and Facial Issues

Severe Underbite (Class III Malocclusion): When the lower jaw significantly protrudes beyond the upper jaw, surgical orthodontics can correct this imbalance, improving both facial aesthetics and oral function.
Severe Overbite (Class II Malocclusion): In cases where the upper jaw protrudes too far forward, surgical intervention can reposition the jaws to create a balanced facial profile and improve bite function.
Open Bite: If there's a gap between the front teeth, surgical orthodontics can address the underlying skeletal issues, allowing the teeth to come together properly.
Crossbite: When the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth, surgery can correct the jaw alignment and ensure proper tooth-to-tooth contact.
Skeletal Imbalances: Surgical orthodontics can address various skeletal imbalances, including facial asymmetry, which can impact both appearance and function.

Enhancing Facial Aesthetics and Oral Function

Improved Facial Profile: By correcting jaw position and alignment, surgical orthodontics can significantly enhance your facial appearance, leading to a more balanced and attractive profile.
Enhanced Oral Function: A properly aligned bite improves chewing, speaking, and swallowing, making daily activities more comfortable and efficient.
Reduced TMJ Pain: By addressing underlying jaw joint issues, surgical orthodontics can alleviate temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain and discomfort.
Boosted Self-Confidence: A beautiful, healthy smile can boost your self-esteem and confidence, positively impacting your overall well-being.

Long-Lasting Results

Stability: Surgical orthodontics provides a stable and long-lasting solution for severe dental and facial problems, ensuring that the results will endure over time.
Reduced Risk of Future Dental Issues: By correcting underlying skeletal issues, surgical orthodontics can help prevent future dental problems, such as tooth wear, gum disease, and difficulty maintaining oral hygiene.

If you're struggling with a severe dental or facial issue, surgical orthodontics may be the right solution for you. Consult with a qualified orthodontist and oral surgeon to discuss your specific needs and explore the potential benefits of this transformative treatment.

The Benefits of Surgical Orthodontics

Surgical orthodontics offers a wide range of benefits that can significantly improve your quality of life. Here's a more detailed look at the advantages:

Enhanced Facial Aesthetics

Balanced Facial Profile: By correcting jaw alignment issues, surgical orthodontics can create a more balanced and harmonious facial profile.
Improved Facial Symmetry: This procedure can help address facial asymmetry, making your face appear more symmetrical and attractive.
Youthful Appearance: A well-aligned bite can contribute to a more youthful appearance by reducing signs of premature aging, such as sagging skin and wrinkles.

Enhanced Oral Function

Improved Chewing: Correcting bite problems can make chewing food easier and more efficient.
Better Speech: Proper jaw alignment can improve speech clarity and reduce lisping or other speech impediments.
Easier Breathing: By correcting airway obstructions, surgical orthodontics can improve breathing, especially during sleep.
Reduced Wear and Tear on Teeth: A well-aligned bite can reduce the risk of excessive wear and tear on your teeth, leading to longer-lasting dental health.

Reduced TMJ Pain

Alleviation of Pain: By addressing underlying jaw joint issues, surgical orthodontics can alleviate TMJ pain, headaches, and facial pain.
Improved Jaw Joint Function: Correcting jaw alignment can improve the function of the temporomandibular joint, reducing discomfort and limiting the risk of future problems.

Boosted Self-Confidence

Increased Self-Esteem: A beautiful, healthy smile can significantly boost your self-esteem and confidence.
Improved Social Interactions: A confident smile can enhance your social interactions and help you make a positive impression on others.
Reduced Anxiety and Stress: By addressing dental and facial issues that may cause anxiety or stress, surgical orthodontics can improve your overall mental well-being.

If you're considering surgical orthodontics, it's important to consult with a qualified orthodontist and oral surgeon to discuss your specific needs and goals. They can help you determine if this treatment is right for you and provide you with more information about the potential benefits and risks.

The Surgical Orthodontics Process

Initial Consultation: Your orthodontist will assess your dental and facial condition and determine if surgical orthodontics is the right treatment for you.
Orthodontic Phase: You'll wear braces to prepare your teeth for surgery.
Surgical Phase: An oral surgeon will perform the necessary procedures to correct your jaw alignment.
Post-Surgical Orthodontic Phase: You'll wear braces again to fine-tune your bite and achieve the desired result.

Surgical Orthodontics FAQs

Is surgical orthodontics painful?

Surgery involves some discomfort, but modern anesthesia techniques minimize pain during the procedure. After surgery, you may experience some soreness and swelling, but pain medication can help manage these symptoms.

How long is the recovery period after surgical orthodontics?

The recovery period varies depending on the complexity of the surgery. Most patients can return to normal activities within a few weeks, but full recovery may take several months.

Will I have any scars after surgery?

The incisions made during surgery are typically placed inside the mouth, minimizing the risk of visible scarring. Any external incisions will be carefully placed and sutured to minimize scarring.

How long will I need to wear braces after surgery?

The duration of post-surgical orthodontic treatment varies depending on individual needs. Typically, braces are worn for several months to fine-tune the bite and stabilize the results.

What are the potential risks of surgical orthodontics?

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks associated with surgical orthodontics, including infection, bleeding, nerve damage, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. However, experienced surgeons minimize these risks through careful planning and execution.

Am I too old for surgical orthodontics?

While it's ideal to address severe bite and jaw issues during adolescence, adult patients can also benefit from surgical orthodontics. The decision to proceed with surgery depends on various factors, including bone health, overall health, and individual goals.

How much does surgical orthodontics cost?

The cost of surgical orthodontics varies depending on the complexity of the procedure, the duration of treatment, and the specific services required. It's best to consult with an orthodontist to get a personalized cost estimate.

How long will it take to see results from surgical orthodontics?

While the initial results of surgery may be noticeable, it takes time for the bones to heal and the teeth to settle into their new positions. The full results of treatment may take several months or even years to become apparent.

Can I combine surgical orthodontics with other cosmetic procedures?

Yes, surgical orthodontics can be combined with other cosmetic procedures, such as dental veneers or implants, to achieve a comprehensive smile makeover.

Ready to take the next step toward a healthier, more beautiful smile? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Stephen Herzberg to discuss your specific needs and explore your treatment options. Please contact Herzberg Orthodontics today, remember a beautiful, healthy smile can significantly improve your quality of life. With surgical orthodontics, you can achieve the smile you've always dreamed of.

A New Smile, A New You: Surgical Orthodontics