Braces and aligners that systematically relocate teeth to their perfect location are often linked with orthodontic therapy. However, sometimes conventional orthodontics alone is insufficient to correct face and jaw anomalies. Surgical orthodontics is also known as orthognathic surgery. They are specialized to fix severe skeletal and dental problems. This advanced approach enhances general usability as well as aesthetic appeal. In this comprehensive blog guide, you will learn everything about surgical orthodontics.
What Is Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics is an advanced orthodontic treatment that combines corrective jaw surgery with traditional methods like braces or aligners to fix severe jaw and teeth misalignments. This approach ensures proper alignment and enhances both function and aesthetics.
The recommendation for surgical orthodontics commonly occurs after patients reach age 18 when their jaws achieve full growth to resolve major bite problems jaw misalignments and facial asymmetries.
Not all people with orthodontic problems have to undergo surgery. If you need surgery, it might be due to the following reasons –
- Extreme underbite or overbite is not fixable only by braces.
- Jaws misalignment causes difficulties in talking, chewing, or biting.
- Disproportionate jaw shape and facial asymmetry.
- Jaw position problems cause obstructive sleep apnea.
- TMJ disorders cause constant jaw pain related to jaw alignment.
Using X-rays, 3D scans, and other diagnostic measures, your orthodontist and oral surgeon will assess your case to see if surgical orthodontics is the best course of action for you.
Understand The Surgical Orthodontics Process
Surgical orthodontics is a multi-stage therapy that demands well-organized preparation and cooperation between an orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. The below points depict the process in the summarized way –
- Orthodontic treatment before surgery – Normally, you will have to wear braces for 12 to 18 months before surgery so that your teeth may be gently moved toward the right position. This stage makes sure your teeth will fit properly when your jaw is relocated post-surgery.
- Orthognathic Surgery – Surgery conducted by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon will follow, once your teeth are correctly aligned. Depending on your needs, the operation is performed under general anesthesia and might include moving the upper jaw (maxilla), the lower jaw (mandible), or both.
Typically, the operation lasts 2 to 4 hours, and patients are under observation in the hospital for 1 to 3 days.
- Post-surgical recovery and orthodontic therapy – The first recovery period following surgery usually lasts six weeks, when pain and swelling gradually go away. Next, your orthodontist will use braces or aligners to gradually perfect your bite. Perfecting your bite and guaranteeing long-term stability in the last stage of therapy can take another 6 to 12 months.
- Phase of retention – Following orthodontic therapy, you’ll have to wear a retainer to keep your teeth from returning to their starting point.
Benefits of Surgical Orthodontics
Regarding performance and looks, surgical orthodontics has many advantages including:
- Better Bite Function: Fixes serious misalignments, which will help a person to talk and chew.
- Better Facial Aesthetics: This gives the visage a more symmetric and even balance.
- Freedom from Jaw Pain: Helps to relieve chronic jaw pain and TMJ ailments discomfort.
- Better Breathing: This can help relieve blocked sleep apnea and any other breathing problems.
- Long-Lasting Results: When combined with orthodontic treatment, the results are permanent and significantly improve oral health.
Why Choose Kohrs Orthodontics?
Kohrs Orthodontics provides personalized surgical orthodontics to treat severe cases of jaw bone anomalies or misaligned bites. Top Colorado oral and facial surgeons work closely with Dr. Kohrs to offer total care. For people whose situations cannot be improved with only clear aligners or braces, this dual strategy of orthodontic therapy and jaw surgery guarantees the best outcomes. From first consultation to post-surgical dental treatments, Kohrs walks clients through the whole process, guaranteeing a smooth and compassionate experience.
Conclusion – In a nutshell, it can be concluded that surgical orthodontics can restore a strong jaw and bite, increase face symmetry, and better quality of life as a whole. Though the procedure calls for time and dedication, the long-term advantages justify the work. Discuss your preferred therapy plan with a skilled orthodontist and an oral surgeon if surgical orthodontics is under your consideration. Proper treatment and direction will assist you in obtaining a confident, more functional, and healthier smile. If you need any assistance, it is best to connect with Kohrs Orthodontics.
