By Toowong Orthodontics
While most orthodontic cases are able to be completed with braces or aligners alone, some patients have more complex needs and require a combined approach with orthognathic jaw surgery. At Toowong Orthodontics, we work closely with excellent oral and maxillofacial surgeons to help our patient’s transform their smiles by creating a functional bite and a balanced, confident smile.
What are orthodontic surgical cases?
Orthodontic surgical cases involve correcting underlying skeletal discrepancies in the jaw and mouth in combination with braces or aligners. These may include:
- Severe underbite or overbite
- Significant facial and jaw asymmetry
- Potential airway issues
- Anterior open bites
- Adults patients requiring significant jaw expansion
Jaw or orthognathic surgery is a specific type of surgery that corrects and realigns the jaw bones, teeth and bite. It can also improve the overall look of a person’s face, making it appear more symmetrical or improve the facial profile. See our Success Gallery for transformation photos of some of our wonderful patient’s before and after results.
How does the process work?
After consultation with one of our Specialist Orthodontists, you will be informed whether or not you require jaw surgery in your treatment. If you do, we will advise a consultation with an oral surgeon so you are aware of what is involved, risks of the procedure, expected outcome and additional costs. Surgical orthodontic treatment usually involves three phases:
- Pre-surgical orthodontic treatment: Your teeth are aligned using aligners or braces. Sometimes this will make the bite worse so it can be fully corrected by the surgery.
- Surgery: After consultation with an oral maxillofacial surgeon, they will schedule your jaw surgery to be performed in hospital under general Anaesthetic. During orthognathic surgery, small and precise cuts are made in the jaw bone to allow the surgeon to move your jaw into a better position. They then hold the jaw in this new position with titanium bone fixation plates and screws. The surgery can be performed inside the mouth, which allows there to be no visible scarring on the face. After surgery, you will have
- Post-surgical orthodontic treatment: Your Surgeon and Specialist Orthodontist will advise you in your tailored treatment plan, how long after your jaw surgery you will need to wear braces. Generally it is around 6 to 9 months after surgery.
Who might need Orthodontic surgery?
Not all patients with bite issues need jaw surgery. We typically recommend this combined approach for adults who have jaw discrepancies that are too significant to treat with braces alone and have already completed their growth. Children and teenagers, who are still growing and developing, are often able to be treated with early orthodontic intervention to avoid the need for jaw surgery. Having a consultation with a specialist orthodontist will provide you with all the information needed as to whether you may or may not require jaw surgery.
Is it safe?
Yes! When jaw surgery is performed by a specialist oral or maxillofacial surgeon it is a safe and common procedure.
Is it painful?
As jaw surgery is performed under general anaesthetic, you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. However, after surgery you may experience some pain or discomfort which is easily managed with appropriate pain management. You will likely also experience facial swelling and bruising after jaw surgery. This is a normal part of the healing process.
Why choose Toowong Orthodontics?
At Toowong Orthodontics, we see a large variety of patients requiring jaw surgery. We work closely with trusted Specialist Oral and Maxillofacial surgeons to provide a seamless and efficient experience for our patients requiring jaw surgery. We can provide you with a comprehensive tailored treatment plan and specialist referrals. If you think you may need jaw surgery or are not sure, book in to see one of our specialist orthodontists.
Book a consultation with us now!
