SURGICAL ORTHODONTICS, WHAT IS IT?
What is it? Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a type of orthodontic treatment used to correct severe cases that include bad bites, jaw bone abnormalities, and malocclusion. Oral and maxillofacial surgery is one of the nine recognized dental specialties, and it focuses on treating complex craniofacial cases that involve the mouth, jaw, face, and skull. If you need surgical orthodontics, Dr. Trandem will work with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to ensure that you receive the best care possible.
WHEN IS SURGICAL ORTHODONTICS NECESSARY
Surgical orthodontics may be used to treat adults with improper bites or other aesthetic concerns. Typically, jaw growth stops by age 17 in females and 18 in males. Patients cannot receive orthognathic surgery until the jaw is done growing. Surgical orthodontics may be necessary or desirable when the jaws do not line up correctly, and a proper bite cannot be achieved with orthodontic treatment alone. Orthognathic surgery helps properly align the jaw, and orthodontic braces will then be used to move the teeth into their proper position.
HOW DO I KNOW IF I NEED ORTHOGNATHIC SURGERY
Dr. Trandem will tell you if orthognathic surgery is recommended as part of your treatment. Whether or not it is recommended will depend the severity of your case and the alignment of your jaw.
HOW DOES ORTHOGNATHIC SURGERY WORK
Orthognathic surgery is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in a hospital. The procedure can take several hours depending on the individual case and a two-week rest period is prescribed after surgery has been completed. Since orthognathic surgery is a major treatment, we recommend that you schedule some time away from work and/or school during the healing process. After your jaw has healed, Dr. Trandem will once again “fine-tune” your bite using braces. Most patients will wear braces from 6 to 12 months after surgery and a retainer will be used to maintain your smile after braces are removed.
RISKS OF ORTHOGNATHIC SURGERY
As with any major medical procedure, orthognastic surgery has certain risks. However, the process of orthognathic surgery mature and it has been performed for many years in practices and hospitals. Dr. Trandem will be happy to provide patients with a detailed risk assessment if they are considering orthognathic surgery. The Surgeons we work with will do the same upon consult
REWARDS OF ORTHOGNATHIC SURGERY
For many patients, the most important reward of having orthognathic surgery is achieving a beautiful, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. Whether you need orthodontic treatment to correct a bad bite, malocclusion, or jaw abnormality, orthognathic surgery can help restore your confidence and leave you smiling with confidence for many years to come.
