Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a type of orthodontic treatment used to correct severe cases that include bad bites, jawbone abnormalities, and malocclusion.
At Shefferman Orthodontics in Washington, D.C., we work closely with leading oral and maxillofacial surgeons to ensure you receive the highest standard of care.
Oral and maxillofacial surgery is one of nine recognized dental specialties, focusing on complex craniofacial cases involving the mouth, jaw, face, and skull. If you need surgical orthodontics, your orthodontist will collaborate with a trusted oral and maxillofacial surgeon in the Washington, D.C. area to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Surgical Orthodontics
Surgical orthodontics is often used to treat adults with improper bites or significant aesthetic concerns. Typically, jaw growth stops by age 16 in females and age 18 in males, and surgery is only performed once growth is complete. Orthognathic surgery is needed when the jaws do not align properly and a correct bite cannot be achieved with orthodontic treatment alone. This surgery realigns the jaws, and braces are then used to move the teeth into their ideal positions.
Your orthodontist can tell you if orthognathic surgery is needed as part of your treatment. Depending on the severity of your case and the alignment of your jaw, you may or may not need surgery.
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon will perform your orthognathic surgery in a hospital setting. The procedure can take several hours, depending on your specific case. After surgery, you will need approximately two weeks of rest, so plan to take time away from work or school for recovery. Once your jaw has healed, your orthodontist will fine-tune your bite using braces. Most patients wear braces for six to twelve months following surgery, and afterward, you will wear a retainer to maintain your new smile.
As with any major medical surgery, orthognathic surgery carries certain risks. However, this procedure has been performed safely for many years in hospitals and practices. If you have concerns about your upcoming surgery, please contact our Washington, D.C. orthodontic office. We are happy to answer your questions and provide additional information because your comfort and confidence are important to us.
For many patients, the greatest reward of orthognathic surgery is achieving a beautiful, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. Whether you need treatment for a bad bite, malocclusion, or jaw abnormality, orthognathic surgery can restore your confidence and leave you smiling for years to come.
