Surgical Orthodontics
Achieving a Functional, Healthy Bite with Corrective Jaw Surgery
For some patients, traditional orthodontic treatment alone cannot fully correct their bite issues. They may also need surgery in combination with orthodontic treatment to achieve a functional, healthy bite. Just as orthodontics repositions teeth, surgical orthodontics (like jaw surgery) can help correct irregularities with the teeth and jaw bones to improve your ability to chew, speak, and even, breathe! After reviewing your bite, Dr. Lee may recommend surgical orthodontics treatment if your case is beyond the scope of dental correction alone.
Understanding Orthognathic Surgery
Orthognathic surgery, commonly referred to as jaw surgery, corrects irregularities of the jaw bones and realigns the jaws to improve the way they work. Surgical orthodontics may be necessary for patients whose upper and lower jaws are out of position. Sometimes this can be the result of genetics while other causes are linked directly to jaw injuries and trauma. Regardless of the cause of the jaw problems, it often results in functional problems that can impair the patient’s ability to bite, chew, or speak properly. Though most orthodontists are not trained to perform the surgery themselves, they will work in conjunction with a dental specialist known as an oral surgeon. The two specialists will work as a team to design and execute your plan of care for your oral health.
Will I Still Need Braces After Orthodontic Surgery?
Rarely can corrective jaw surgery alone align your teeth and jaws. This means orthodontic treatment is necessary to ensure teeth are in the right positions with the newly aligned jaws. Following your surgery, you will have about a rest period to allow your jaw to heal. After your jaw has healed, your orthodontist will begin “fine-tuning” your bite with various orthodontics appliances such as metal braces, temporary anchorage devices (also known as TADs), and, eventually, retainers.
Contact Red Rock Orthodontics About Dental Surgery
For many patients, orthognathic surgery is an important step towards achieving a happy, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. Though surgery can seem daunting, Dr. Lee and our team will be with you every step of the way to help you achieve your best smile! Contact us today to learn more.