Surgical Orthodontics
Corrective jaw surgery combined with orthodontic treatment for cases where braces alone aren't enough.
What is SurgicalOrthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is used to correct severe cases such as improper bites, jaw bone abnormalities, and malocclusion. When the jaws don't line up correctly and a proper bite can't be achieved with orthodontic treatment alone, surgery helps reposition the jaw while braces move the teeth into their ideal positions.
Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a recognized dental specialty focused on complex craniofacial cases involving the mouth, jaw, face, and skull. If you need surgical orthodontics, your orthodontist works closely with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon so you receive coordinated, expert care from start to finish.
Because the jaw must be done growing before orthognathic surgery, it's typically considered after growth is complete (often around age 16 for females and 18 for males). During your evaluation, we'll review your bite, jaw alignment, and goals to determine whether surgery is recommended.
When It May BeRecommended
Surgery is considered when jaw positioning issues are too significant for braces alone.
Severe Bite Issues
When braces alone cannot correct significant overbite, underbite, or crossbite.
Jaw Misalignment
Upper and lower jaws that don't align properly, affecting function and appearance.
Facial Imbalance
Asymmetry or disproportion that impacts both aesthetics and oral function.
TMJ Disorders
Chronic jaw pain, clicking, or limited movement caused by structural issues.
The TreatmentProcess
Consultation & Planning
Comprehensive evaluation with 3D imaging to determine if surgery is needed.
Pre-Surgical Orthodontics
Braces align your teeth in preparation for surgery (12-18 months).
Orthognathic Surgery
An oral surgeon repositions your jaw bones. Hospital-based with 2-week recovery.
Post-Surgical Refinement
Final adjustments fine-tune your bite. Braces removed within 6-12 months.
Surgical OrthodonticsFAQs
Clear answers about timing, surgery, recovery, and what to expect.
Surgical orthodontics may be recommended for adults with improper bites or significant aesthetic and functional concerns that can’t be corrected with orthodontics alone. Because jaw growth must be complete before orthognathic surgery, it’s typically considered after growth has finished (often around age 16 for females and 18 for males). When the jaws don’t line up correctly, surgery can align the jaw so braces can place the teeth into an ideal bite.
Your orthodontist can tell you whether orthognathic surgery is needed as part of your treatment. Based on your bite, jaw position, facial balance, and 3D imaging, we’ll recommend whether braces alone can achieve your goals or if surgery would provide the best result.
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon performs orthognathic surgery in a hospital setting. Surgery can take several hours depending on the case, followed by a typical recovery period of about two weeks. After healing, your orthodontist “fine-tunes” your bite with braces. In many cases, braces are removed within 6–12 months after surgery, and a retainer helps maintain your results long-term.
As with any major surgery, there are risks, but orthognathic surgery is a well-established procedure performed for many years. We’ll review your case carefully, coordinate with your surgeon, and answer any questions so you feel informed and comfortable throughout the process.
For many patients, the biggest reward is a healthier, more stable bite and a smile that looks and feels better for life. Whether you’re correcting a bad bite, malocclusion, or jaw imbalance, surgery can improve function, facial balance, and long-term comfort.
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