Surgical Orthodontics for Jaw Alignment
Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a specialized treatment designed to correct jaw misalignments and complex bite issues. We work closely with skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeons to provide this advanced level of care for adult patients whose concerns go beyond what braces alone can fix.
This form of treatment enhances how your teeth function—improving chewing, speaking, and breathing—and creates a more balanced, symmetrical facial appearance.
Who Benefits from Orthognathic Surgery?
Surgical orthodontics is typically recommended for adults who have completed jaw growth and are experiencing functional or aesthetic issues due to jaw misalignment. Candidates may have:
Severe overbites or underbites
Open bites or crossbites not correctable with braces alone
Facial asymmetry or jaw protrusion
Difficulty chewing, biting, or breathing properly
Jaw growth usually completes around age 16 for females and 18 for males, which is why this type of treatment is not usually offered to younger patients. However, orthodontic treatment often begins 1–2 years before surgery to start aligning the teeth in preparation.
How Does Surgical Orthodontics Work?
Surgical orthodontic treatment follows a carefully coordinated plan between Dr. Suzanne Grey and the oral surgeon. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
Orthodontic Preparation
Before surgery, patients begin treatment with braces or Invisalign aligners to gradually position the teeth for optimal alignment after surgery. This phase can take 12–18 months.
Corrective Jaw Surgery
Once the teeth are in the proper pre-surgical position, the orthognathic procedure is performed to realign the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. Depending on the case, the oral surgeon may:
Move the lower jaw forward or backward by adjusting the bone behind the teeth
Reposition the upper jaw upward, downward, forward, or backward
Add or remove bone to achieve facial balance and stability
Adjust facial bones to improve bite and aesthetics
Surgery can take several hours, depending on the complexity of your case, and is performed under general anesthesia.
Recovery and What to Expect After Surgery
Most patients return to work or school within two weeks following jaw surgery. However, complete healing takes 4 to 8 weeks, and orthodontic care continues during this time.
Here’s what the typical recovery and post-op timeline looks like:
2 weeks: Initial recovery; swelling and discomfort begin to subside
4–8 weeks: Healing progresses; patients resume normal activity
6–12 months post-op: Final bite refinements made with braces
Retainers issued: Once braces are removed, a retainer is provided to keep your teeth in their newly aligned position
There is a light at the end of the tunnel: surgical orthodontics not only restores function but can transform your appearance and confidence for life.
Is Surgical Orthodontics Right for You?
At Grey Orthodontics, we’re proud to provide comprehensive orthodontic care for adults and teens, including advanced treatments like orthognathic surgery. If you’ve been told your bite or jaw alignment is too severe for braces alone, we’re here to help.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out if surgical orthodontics is the solution that can finally give you a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile.
