Also known as orthognathic surgery, corrects jaw irregularities to enhance your ability to chew, speak, and breathe. It also improves facial aesthetics by aligning the jaws and teeth using braces in conjunction with jaw surgery.
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Who Needs Surgical Orthodontics?
Dr. Niaraki and Dr. Fadiani will consider surgical orthodontic treatment for those cases beyond the scope of dental correction alone and for those with facial aesthetic concerns. All growth must be completed before jaw surgery can be performed, however the pre-surgical tooth movements can begin one to two years prior. On average, jaw growth is completed by age 16 for girls and 18 for boys, however every patient is different. A simple x-ray of the hand and wrist can help determine when growth will come to an end.
How Does Surgical Orthodontics Work?
During the first part of surgical orthodontic treatment (6–18 months), you will be treated with braces and will visit our office 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 the orthognathic surgery, your teeth will then fit into their proper positions.
Surgery is usually 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 surgery is complete, most patients can return to school or work within two weeks. After about 4–8 weeks of healing, we fine-tune your bite, and in many cases, braces are removed within four months. At Class One Orthodontics, we only partner with highly skilled oral surgeons who routinely perform orthognathic surgery to ensure the best outcomes. After braces are removed, a retainer helps maintain your new smile, and we’re always here to guide patients on treatment options — including questions about Medicaid coverage for Invisalign.
What are the benefits of 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.
Why Choose Class One Orthodontics?
We collaborate with top oral surgeons to ensure exceptional surgical outcomes. After surgery, retainers are used to maintain your new smile.
Join the Class One Orthodontics family today, and let's create a smile that's uniquely yours.