About Surgical Orthodontics
Surgical orthodontics is also commonly known as orthognathic surgery. It is a type of orthodontic treatment that is used to correct severe cases. These cases often include bad bites, malocclusion, and jaw bone abnormalities. Oral and maxillofacial surgical procedures focus on treating difficult or severe craniofacial cases that involve the jaw, mouth, skull, and face. If surgical orthodontics becomes a necessity, your orthodontist will work closely with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in order to ensure that you receive the best treatment possible.
When Are Surgical Orthodontic Procedures Required?
Surgical orthodontics is most commonly used to treat adults, because their jaws have ceased to grow. This kind of procedure is often used to fix improper bites and other aesthetic concerns. Jaw growth usually stops around age 16 for females and 18 for males. Orthognathic surgery is only practical after the jaw has finished growing. Surgical orthodontics may become necessary when the jaws do not line up correctly and alignment cannot be achieved through orthodontic treatment alone. Orthognathic surgery is combined with orthodontic treatment to help align the jaw and move the teeth into their proper position.
How Do I Know if I Need Orthognathic Surgery
If you think you have problems chewing, biting, or swallowing, jaw growth does sometimes occur at different stages in rates on the upper and lower jaw. This can occur in younger children and early teens, but can stop around the ages of 16-18 years. If you have also experienced an accident or have a birth defect, surgical orthodontics care may be able to help. You may require orthognathic surgery, you should contact your orthodontist. They will be able to determine if orthognathic surgery will be necessary for your orthodontic treatment. This will depend on the overall severity of your case.
How Does Orthognathic Surgery Work?
Orthognathic surgery will be performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgery. The surgery takes place in a hospital. The surgery may take several hours depending on the severity of the case. After the surgery has been completed, you will likely have a two-week rest period. Orthognathic surgery is a major treatment, so we recommend that you take some time from work or school during the healing process. After the jaw has healed from the procedure, your orthodontist will help to fine-tune its alignment. They will likely implement braces, which are usually removed within 6-12 months following the initial surgery. Once braces have been removed, your orthodontist will provide you with a retainer to prevent regression of your teeth.
What Risks are Associated with Orthognathic Surgery?
Any major medical surgery comes with certain risks. Orthognathic surgery is not a new procedure and has been performed for many years. If you have any concerns regarding your upcoming treatment and orthognathic surgery, you should contact our practice to discuss it with us. We are more than happy to answer any questions that you may have, as well as provide you with any additional information.
What are the Benefits of Orthognathic Surgery?
Crooked or misaligned teeth can cause significant oral health consequences. These teeth can be more difficult to keep clean and thoroughly remove plaque from. Orthognathic surgery helps individuals to achieve beautiful, healthy smiles. Orthodontic treatment can be used to correct a bad bite, jaw abnormality, or malocclusion. Orthognathic surgery may be a necessary component of your overall orthodontic treatment plan. To determine if you may need orthognathic surgery, contact our office today!
