Jaw Corrective Surgery

Reasons for Surgery

Orthognathic (or Jaw corrective) surgery is indicated when there is a growth disturbance in the upper or lower jaw bones. The growth disturbance can result in an overbite (lower teeth too far back), an underbite (lower teeth in front of upper teeth), a crossbite (upper teeth fit inside the lower teeth), and/or facial asymmetry. These malocclusions (incorrect bites) can result in difficulty chewing, speaking, TMJ pain/dysfunction, and social stigma.

Goals of Jaw Corrective Surgery

The goal of surgery is to position the jaws in the correct positions so that normal function and improved appearance is achieved.
Surgery is completed during orthodontic treatment. We will work with your orthodontist to develop a treatment plan that results in the best possible result. Your orthodontist will then move the teeth into the best position prior to surgery. The surgery is completed with braces in place, and after approximately 6 weeks of healing, the orthodontist will finish aligning the teeth into the best position with jaws in the new position.

How It Is Performed

Our surgical planning process consists of a Cone Beam CT scan (performed in our office) and digital intraoral scan (performed in office) in order to complete Virtual Surgical Planning (VSP). The virtual planning session allows details of surgery to be planned precisely prior to entering the operating room. The details of the virtual plan can be shared with you and your orthodontist prior to surgery.

Orthognathic surgery is a highly rewarding procedure and can provide outstanding results for conditions that cannot be treated with orthodontics alone. We look forward to guiding you through the entire process!