Surgical Orthodontics

Surgical orthodontics is a type of orthodontic treatment used to correct severe cases. Just as orthodontics repositions teeth, surgical orthodontics (also known as orthognathic surgery) corrects jaw irregularites to improve the patient's ability to chew, speak, and breathe and for improved facial appearance. Moving the jaws also moves the teeth, so braces are always performed in conjunction with jaw correction.This helps make sure teeth are in their proper positions after surgery. If you need surgical orthodontics, Dr. Krystian will work with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to ensure that you receive the best care possible.

When might surgical orthodontics be needed?

Dr. Krystian will consider surgical orthodontic treatment for non-growing adult patients with extremely improper bites and those with facial esthetic concerns.  Jaw growth is usually completed by age 16 for girls and 18 for boys. All growth must be completed before surgery can be performed, however, the pre-surgical tooth movements can begin one to two years prior to these ages. Sometimes camouflage orthodontics can mask an extreme skeletal problem and decrease the need for surgery, or decrease the amount of surgery.   

How do I know if I need orthognathic surgery?

Dr. Krystian can tell you if orthognathic surgery is needed as part of your treatment. Depending on the severity of your case and the alignment of your jaw, you may or may not need surgery.

How does orthognathic surgery work?

During your orthodontic treatment, which usually lasts 6-18 months, you wear braces and will visit Dr. Krystian for scheduled adjustments to your braces. As your teeth move with the braces, you may think that your bite is getting worse rather than better. However, when your jaws are placed into proper alignment during orthognathic surgery, the teeth will then fit into their proper positions. 

Surgery is performed in the hospital with an oral surgeon, and can take several hours, depending on the amount and type of surgery needed. In lower jaw surgery, the jawbone behind the teeth is separated and the tooth-bearing portion is moved forward or backward, as needed. In upper jaw surgery, the jaw can be repositioned forward or backward, or the jaw can be raised or lowered. Certain movements may require the jaws to be separated, with bone added/removed to achieve the proper alignment and stability. Other facial bones that contribute to alignment may also be repositioned or augmented.

When you have completed surgery, you should be able to return to school or work within two weeks. After the necessary healing time (about 4 to 8 weeks), Dr. Krystian "fine-tunes" your bite. In most cases, braces are removed within 6 to 12 months following surgery. After your braces are removed, you will wear a retainer to maintain your beautiful new smile.

What are the risks associated with orthognathic surgery?

As with any major medical surgery, there may be certain risks of having orthognathic surgery. However, the process of orthognathic surgery is not new, and it has been performed for many years in practices and hospitals. If you're concerned about an upcoming treatment with orthognathic surgery, please contact our practice and let us know. We are happy to answer any questions that you may have, and provide you with any additional information. Your comfort is important to us.

What are the rewards of having orthognathic surgery?

For many patients, the most important reward of having orthognathic surgery is achieving a beautiful, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. Whether you need orthodontic treatment to correct a bad bite, malocclusion, or jaw abnormality, orthognathic surgery can help restore your confidence and leave you smiling with confidence for many years to come.