While many issues with tooth alignment, spacing, and jaw alignment can be corrected using orthodontics, some situations are more complicated, and that’s where orthognathic surgery or corrective jaw surgery is used. This treatment improves function, appearance, and long-term oral health. The Miles of Smiles team has served patients as a trusted partner for orthognathic jaw surgery to address problems like misaligned bites, chronic discomfort, and facial imbalance.
Understanding Orthognathic Surgery
What Orthognathic Surgery Can Treat
- Severe bite problems, including open bite, overbite, underbite, and crossbite
- Upper or lower jaw growth discrepancies
- Facial imbalance or asymmetry
- Difficulty chewing, biting, or swallowing
- Speech issues connected to jaw position
- TMJ pain or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues caused by misaligned jaws
- Sleep apnea linked to airway obstruction
How Orthognathic Surgery Works
Our orthodontists work with oral surgeons to create a comprehensive course of care to ensure the best outcome for each and every patient.
- Pre-surgical orthodontics: Braces or aligners prepare teeth for proper positioning.
- Surgical correction: The focus of orthognathic surgery depends on the patient’s needs. Common types include correction of lower jaw misalignment, underbite, and overbite, achieved by repositioning the jaws to improve balance and function.
- Post-surgical orthodontics: As the jaw heals, post-operative orthodontics may be used to support the corrected alignment
- Recovery process: Most patients resume normal routines within a few days, similar to many outpatient procedures, although full healing, range of motion, and alignment corrections using orthodontic adjustments can continue over several months.
Benefits of Orthognathic Surgery
Surgery is a big decision, but in some cases, it’s the most expedient and thorough corrective option. For those cases where surgery is recommended, patients can experience several benefits, including:
What to Expect During Treatment
Our orthodontists work with you and oral surgeons to create a comprehensive course of care to ensure the best outcome and patient comfort possible.
- Diagnostic Consultation and Imaging: We walk through your oral care and complaint history, take detailed imaging, and confer with our specialists to create a plan of action and treatment for the best possible outcomes.
- Pre-surgical orthodontics: Braces or aligners prepare teeth for proper positioning.
- Surgical correction: The focus of orthognathic surgery depends on the patient’s needs. Common types include correcting lower jaw misalignment, underbite, and overbite by repositioning the jaws to improve balance and function.
- Post-surgical orthodontics: As the jaw heals, post-operative orthodontics may be used to support the corrected alignment
- Recovery process: Most patients resume normal routines within a few days, similar to many outpatient procedures although full healing, range of motion and alignment corrections using orthodontic adjustments can continue over several months.
Got Questions?
FAQs
How long does recovery take?
Most patients recover within a few weeks, though orthodontic treatment continues for several months.
Will I need braces before/after surgery?
Yes. Orthodontics is typically necessary to align teeth before and after the procedure. Before surgery, orthodontics begin the process of alignment correction and after surgery they will support the corrected alignment while your surgery site is healing.
Is orthognathic surgery painful?
The surgery itself is managed through anesthesia and pain relief medication. It is normal to feel some pain after any surgery as your body adjusts to the changes and heals but we will work with you on effective pain management post-surgery but the relief that comes with corrected alignment outweighs any initial discomfort.
Will insurance cover the procedure?
Coverage varies. Our team can help verify your plan and benefits for orthognathic surgery.
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Book Your Orthognathic Surgery Consultation
If you’ve been searching for trusted care, the Miles of Smiles team is here to help. Whether it’s an orthognathic surgery lower jaw correction, or full bite realignment, we provide expertise and support every step of the way.
Schedule your orthognathic surgery consultation today and take the next step toward lasting function, comfort, and confidence.
