SURGICAL ORTHODONTICS (Orthognathic)

Orthognathic Surgical Treatment

In certain cases, Orthodontics alone is unable to achieve desired results.

You had a consultation in our office and were informed that jaw ( orthognathic) surgery maybe an option. Now what?

This is usually due to jaw bone discrepancy that makes it difficult to fit the teeth together. In other words, orthodontic appliances alone ( braces and aligners) are not enough to fix the teeth, the bite, and the smile. Both orthdontics and surgery may be required to treat the issue. Sometimes, this combination is the only solution to the problem/concern. In such cases, surgical repositioning of jaw bone is necessary to ensure that the teeth fit properly and for the desired esthetic appearance to be attained.

The surgery usually takes place during orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic appliances ( braces/aligners/ expanders...etc) will be carried on for an average period of 12-24 months depending on the case. Surgery will then be arranged with the Oral Surgeon in a hospital setting. After the healing period, orthodontics will continue for an average of 6-12 months to ensure teeth fit properly and esthetics results are achieved.

Multiple professionals are involved in this option. The Orthodontist, Oral surgeon, General Dentist, and other Specialists if needed will be working cohesively to ensure the treatment goes as planned.

We realize that there was a lot of information given at the consultation. The decision to go ahead with the procedure requires research, more information, and informed consent. So what's next?

If jaw surgery is being considered as an option, the following should be arranged before any decision is made:

1) Surgical Records Appointment( Orthodontist): More detailed exam, X-rays, measurements, Models/Scans will be obtained to treatment plan the case and provide options ( extractions vs. no extractions, one jaw vs. two jaw surgeries...etc). The Orthodontist will determine if any other professional should be involved before, during, and after the procedure) The Orthodontist will refer to the Oral Surgeon and any other professional for a consultation.

2) Orthognathic Surgery Consultation ( With Oral Surgeon): The Oral Surgeon will review the patient's concerns and the recommendation of the Orthodontist to assess if you are a candidate. Based on the type of orthognathic surgery, the Oral Surgeon will discuss the surgery, options, healing period, and any potential risks and complications. This is the time to ask about length of time off work/school, healing, and any other concerns.

3) Other dental/medical consultations as needed : The Orthodontist will recommend certain professionals to be involved in the orthognathic case if needed.

4) Final Orthodontic Consultation and start of treatment: Once all information is collected, this session will put everything together along with different options if present. Orthognathic surgery treatment plan is agreed upon and the treatment can be scheduled to start.

Orthodontic appointments during surgical treatments are very similar to regular orthodontic sessions. Orthodontics will aim to set up the teeth for surgery. The Orthodontist will keep the Oral Surgeon/Other Specialists updated as to the progress of your treatment and approximate time when surgery can take place.

If you have already had the initial consultation at our office and would like to explore this option further, surgical records appointment ( #1 above) will be needed. You can use the button below or call our office to schedule.

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