Surgical Orthodontics

About Orthognathic Surgery

Orthognathic surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery or surgical orthodontics, is a specialized treatment used to improve the alignment and function of the jaws. While orthodontic treatment can correct many bite and alignment concerns, some patients have jaw discrepancies that cannot be fully treated with braces or clear aligners alone. Orthognathic surgery works together with orthodontic treatment to improve the way the teeth, jaws, and facial structures function and fit together.

Orthognathic surgery can improve oral health, facial balance, chewing ability, speech, breathing, and overall comfort. For many patients, treatment can also create a more confident smile and improve long-term quality of life.

What is orthognathic surgery?

Orthognathic surgery is a procedure performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to reposition the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. The goal is to correct skeletal imbalances that affect the bite, facial symmetry, and jaw function.

Orthognathic surgery is recommended if your upper and lower jaws do not develop in proper alignment. Some patients may have a lower jaw that protrudes too far forward, while others may have a recessed jaw, open bite, crossbite, or facial asymmetry.

Because the teeth and jaws work together, orthodontic treatment is an important part of the process. Braces or aligners are typically used before and after surgery to ensure the teeth fit together properly once the jaws are repositioned.

Most patients begin treatment once jaw growth is complete, typically during the late teen or adult years.

Orthognathic surgery can help address:

  • Severe overbites and underbites

  • Open bites

  • Crossbites

  • Facial asymmetry

  • Difficulty chewing or biting

  • Speech challenges related to jaw position

  • Jaw pain or strain

  • Chronic mouth breathing

  • Sleep-related breathing concerns

  • Excessive tooth wear caused by bite imbalance

When is orthognathic surgery needed?

Orthognathic surgery is typically recommended when jaw discrepancies are too significant to be corrected with orthodontics alone. While braces can move teeth into better positions, they cannot reposition the jawbones themselves.

Patients who may benefit from orthognathic surgery often experience functional issues in addition to cosmetic concerns. Some signs that corrective jaw surgery may be appropriate include:

The Orthognathic Surgery Treatment Process

Treatment begins with a comprehensive orthodontic evaluation that includes digital imaging, photographs, bite analysis, and treatment planning. Your orthodontist will determine whether jaw surgery may be beneficial as part of your treatment.

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.