Surgical Orthodontics for a Healthier Bite
Some jaw alignment problems cannot be corrected with braces or Invisalign® alone. When this is the case, surgical orthodontics combines orthodontic treatment with corrective jaw surgery to improve bite function, facial balance, and long-term stability. At Braces Doc, we work closely with experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons throughout every stage of treatment.
CORRECTING JAW ALIGNMENT FOR A HEALTHY, FUNCTIONAL BITE
A Combined Approach to Complex Orthodontic Care
COMBINING ORTHODONTICS WITH JAW SURGERY
For some patients, the position of the upper and lower jaws makes it impossible to achieve proper tooth alignment with braces or Invisalign® alone. Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, combines orthodontic treatment with corrective jaw surgery to improve both function and facial balance.
Treatment typically begins with orthodontic care to position the teeth correctly before surgery. Once the jaws are surgically repositioned by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, orthodontic treatment continues to refine the final bite and tooth alignment. Throughout the process,
Dr. Timothy Agapas works closely with your surgical team to ensure every stage of treatment is carefully coordinated.
Every patient has unique orthodontic needs. The examples below highlight some of the jaw discrepancies that may be treated with a combination of orthodontics and corrective jaw surgery.
Surgical Orthodontic Case Gallery
SEE HOW SURGICAL ORTHODONTICS WORKS
Retruded Lower Jaw
21 Years Old | Concern: Lower Jaw Positioned Too Far Back
Total Treatment Time: Approximately 26 Months
Treatment included orthodontics combined with lower jaw advancement surgery to improve facial balance and bite function.
Anterior Open Bite
19 Years Old | Concern: Front Teeth Do Not Meet
Total Treatment Time: Approximately 22 Months
Treatment included orthodontics combined with upper jaw surgery and lower jaw setback surgery to correct the bite after orthodontic alignment.
Retruded Lower Jaw | Missing Teeth
19 Years Old | Concern: Retruded Lower Jaw and Missing Teeth
Total Treatment Time: Approximately 24 Months (Excluding Tooth Replacement)
Treatment included orthodontics combined with lower jaw advancement surgery. Orthodontic treatment also created space for implant placement.
Frequently Asked Questions
ANSWERS TO COMMON ORTHODONTIC QUESTIONS
What is surgical orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics combines orthodontic treatment with corrective jaw surgery to improve the position of the upper and lower jaws. It is recommended when jaw discrepancies cannot be corrected with braces or Invisalign® alone. The goal is to improve bite function, facial balance, and long-term orthodontic stability while creating a healthier overall smile.
Who may benefit from jaw surgery?
Jaw surgery may be recommended for patients with significant overbites, underbites, open bites, facial asymmetry, or other jaw discrepancies that affect chewing, speaking, or the way the teeth fit together. Following a comprehensive orthodontic evaluation, Dr. Timothy Agapas will determine whether surgical orthodontics is appropriate for your individual needs.
Will I need braces before and after surgery?
Yes. Orthodontic treatment usually begins before surgery to properly position the teeth for the planned jaw correction. Once surgery has been completed and healing has progressed, orthodontic treatment continues to refine the bite and complete the final alignment of the teeth for the best possible result.
How long does surgical orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment time varies depending on the complexity of the jaw discrepancy and the orthodontic movements required. Many patients complete treatment within approximately 18 to 30 months, including orthodontic preparation, surgery, healing, and the finishing phase of orthodontic treatment. Your treatment timeline will be personalized during your consultation.
What is recovery like after corrective jaw surgery?
Recovery varies for each patient, but most individuals gradually return to normal daily activities over the weeks following surgery, according to their surgeon's recommendations. Modern surgical techniques no longer require patients to have their jaws wired shut. Throughout your recovery, our orthodontic team works closely with your surgeon to help ensure treatment progresses as planned.
Learn More About Surgical Orthodontics
If jaw alignment is affecting your bite, function, or smile, our team can help determine whether surgical orthodontics is the right treatment for you.
