What is Orthodontics Surgical Treatment?

Orthodontic surgery is a tried and tested method of correcting misalignments and irregularities in the jaw bone that improves the way they work. It is also used when there are jaw problems that are not able to be resolved with orthodontics alone. Generally, you will have had braces put on your teeth prior to surgery which will remain during recovery until alignment and healing are complete.

Orthodontics surgical treatment is typically performed by oral surgeons. We will work with them closely in order to accelerate and improve your orthodontic treatment.

When is Surgery Required?

We make sure that the decision to have surgery is an educated one by performing diagnostic imaging and through orthodontic x-rays to generate virtual models of your teeth and jaw.

Some instances that may require surgery include:

1. Crossbite
2. Too much or too little of teeth showing
3. Severely receded or protruding upper jaw
4. Severe overjet (top front teeth protrude over bottom teeth)
5. Serious misalignments
6. Abnormalities in the jaw bone

Surgery is generally appropriate once bone growth is complete (males age 17 – 21 and females age 14 – 16)

The Surgical Procedure and Its Aftermath

Orthodontic surgical procedures can last several hours. They are performed by an oral surgeon under general anesthesia. Surgery can be performed inside the mouth to prevent facial scars, but occasional small incisions are need outside the mouth. Braces remain on during the surgery to stabilize the jaw bone and teeth.

Parts of the bone will be shifted, altered, removed or even added to accommodate proper movement of the jaw. Once this movement is complete, tiny devices such as screws, wires or rubber bands will be utilized in order to secure the bones into the new position. These will integrate into bone structure over a period of time.

Following the surgery, a healing and recovery period will be needed for approximately six weeks, at which time our orthodontic team will once again focus on your care with us. Minor adjustments and tweaks may be required to ensure the integrity of the results of the surgery. The combined surgical and orthodontic treatment can take approximately one to three years.

Orthodontic surgical results will have a significant impact on your life. It will restore correct functioning of teeth, improve overall health, including speech and eating, and restore the ideal symmetry and balance to your face.

Why Choose Us For Your Surgical Needs?

We want you to be proud of your smile and your improved facial structure following surgery. We enjoy seeing our patients’ self-esteem and confidence soar post-surgery.

When surgical treatment is required, you can be sure that your individual needs will be uppermost in the decision and that only the highest quality care will be provided. The surgeons we work with are the finest in their field.

We embrace new techniques in orthodontics and will always provide you with the most advanced options available at an affordable price. Honing our skills and improving our knowledge base with continuing education is a priority here in Marietta.

Contact us today for any orthodontic needs. We look forward to serving you.