Surgical Orthodontics for Jaw Alignment and Bite Correction
Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a specialized procedure used to correct jaw misalignment and severe bite issues. It involves a collaborative approach between an orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to achieve both functional and aesthetic improvements.
At Together Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, Dr. Amin Neishaboory works closely with surgical specialists to ensure every phase of your treatment is expertly coordinated and personalized to your needs.
Who Might Need Orthognathic Surgery?
Surgical orthodontics is typically recommended for adult patients who have completed jaw growth and present with:
Misaligned jaws
Severe bite issues that can’t be corrected with braces alone
Facial asymmetry or concerns about overall facial aesthetics
Jaw growth is usually complete by age 16 in females and age 18 in males. However, pre-surgical orthodontic treatment (with braces) may begin 12–24 months earlier to begin aligning the teeth in preparation for surgery.
Focus on Facial Proportions and Balance
Beyond improving how your teeth fit together, surgical orthodontics plays a vital role in enhancing facial proportions and symmetry, creating a balanced and natural appearance that complements your overall facial structure. This holistic focus helps improve chewing, speech, and breathing while refining your profile and facial balance.
How Does Surgical Orthodontics Work?
Sometimes, braces alone reveal an underlying skeletal issue that actually worsens the bite instead of correcting it. In such cases, Dr. Neishaboory may recommend orthognathic surgery.
Here’s how the process typically works:
Pre-surgical Orthodontics
Braces are used to align the teeth before surgery. As your teeth shift, it becomes easier to identify any skeletal misalignment.
Surgical Phase
Your oral surgeon repositions the jaw(s) to correct alignment and improve function. This may involve:
Moving the upper jaw up, down, forward, or backward
Repositioning the lower jaw forward or backward
Adding or removing bone to stabilize the new jaw position
Adjusting or augmenting facial bones if needed for harmony and balance
The procedure typically lasts several hours, depending on the complexity of your case.
Post-surgical Orthodontics
Once healing begins, Dr. Neishaboory will make fine adjustments to your bite to complete the process and ensure optimal alignment.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery from orthognathic surgery usually follows this timeline:
2 weeks: Most patients can return to work or school.
4–8 weeks: Major healing is typically complete.
6–12 months: Final orthodontic adjustments are completed, and braces are removed.
Once your braces come off, you’ll receive a custom retainer to help preserve your new smile and bite alignment long-term.
