Surgical Orthodontics

Jaw growth is a slow and gradual process. Sometimes abnormal growth may occur, causing one or both jaws to grow too much or too little. The resulting abnormal jaw relationship may cause an improper bite and possible speaking and chewing problems. An improper bite can also cause long term health problems for the gums, teeth and possibly the jaw joint (TMJ). Appearance can also be affected, with one jaw sticking too far out or back or even too much gums showing when smiling.

When the jaw relationships are so severely misaligned that tooth movement alone cannot accomplish the desired changes, surgical intervention (called orthognathic surgery), may be necessary. Braces are placed first to align the teeth within the bone. An oral surgeon then does corrective jaw surgery.

Surgery involves moving all or part of the upper and/or lower jaw into a more favorable position. The goal of surgical treatment is to restore proper function and facial balance. With recent advances in surgery the jaws rarely have to be wired shut after surgery, allowing the patient to open and close their jaws sooner. After surgery the orthodontic treatment is completed, usually in 5 to 7 months, to finalize the bite.

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