Surgical Orthodontics (Orthognathic Surgery)
Aligning More Than Just Teeth
While many orthodontic concerns can be addressed with braces or aligners alone, some cases involve underlying jaw irregularities that require a more comprehensive approach. Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, combines orthodontic treatment with jaw surgery to correct skeletal imbalances and improve both function and facial harmony.
What Is Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics addresses issues that cannot be resolved with braces or aligners alone—typically when the upper and lower jaws are out of alignment. These discrepancies may impact chewing, speaking, breathing, or facial symmetry and can sometimes contribute to sleep apnea or chronic jaw pain.
Orthognathic surgery involves repositioning the jaws so they align properly with one another. This is done in collaboration with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Orthodontic treatment is provided before and after the procedure to guide the teeth into their ideal position in conjunction with the corrected jaw alignment.
Who Might Need It?
Surgical orthodontics may be recommended for adults and older teens whose jaws have finished growing. Common reasons for orthognathic surgery include:
- Severe bite problems (underbite, open bite, or crossbite)
- Jaw asymmetry or misalignment
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Speech challenges caused by jaw positioning
- Obstructive sleep apnea with skeletal involvement
- Facial imbalance or elongation
The Process
Treatment typically begins with a thorough orthodontic evaluation, imaging, and 3D modeling. Braces or aligners are used before surgery to move the teeth into an optimal position relative to the future alignment of the jaws. After surgery, orthodontic treatment continues to fine-tune the bite and stabilize the final results.
Recovery varies by case but often includes a healing period of several weeks followed by routine follow-ups. The results can be life-changing, improving both oral function and overall facial aesthetics.
Get in touch!
We proudly serve our beloved communities across Arizona, including Scottsdale, the greater Phoenix metropolitan area, Tempe, Mesa, and beyond.
OWTAD Orthodontics
Phone: (480) 800-8707Suite 105
Scottsdale, AZ 85257