Surgical Orthodontics

Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is used to correct significant jaw misalignment and bite issues that cannot be treated with braces alone. At Maryville Family Orthodontics, Dr. Monica Ginart works closely with experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons to create personalized treatment plans designed to improve both oral function and facial balance.

What Problems Can Surgical Orthodontics Correct?

Orthognathic surgery may be recommended for adults with jaw irregularities that affect the way the teeth, jaws, and facial structures function together.

Surgical orthodontics may help improve:

• Severe bite misalignment
• Difficulty chewing or biting
• Speech concerns
• Breathing problems
• Facial asymmetry
• Jaw discomfort or imbalance
• Overall facial appearance

Who Is a Candidate for Jaw Surgery?

Surgical orthodontics is typically recommended for patients who have completed jaw growth and have moderate to severe skeletal bite problems. In many cases, braces alone are not enough to properly correct the issue.

Jaw growth is usually complete around:

• Age 16 for females
• Age 18 for males

However, orthodontic treatment with braces may begin before surgery preparation is complete.

How Does Orthognathic Surgery Work?

Treatment usually involves both braces and jaw surgery working together to create proper alignment between the teeth and jaws.

The treatment process often includes:

1. Orthodontic treatment to prepare the teeth
2. Jaw surgery performed by an oral surgeon
3. Healing and recovery period
4. Final orthodontic adjustments
5. Retainer wear after treatment

The surgery itself repositions the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both depending on the patient’s needs.

Recovery After Jaw Surgery

Most patients return to school or work within about two weeks after surgery. Complete healing may take several additional weeks while the jaws stabilize and recover.

After surgery, orthodontic treatment continues to fine-tune the bite and complete tooth alignment before braces are removed.

Personalized Care from Start to Finish

At Maryville Family Orthodontics, we understand that surgical orthodontic treatment is a major decision. Our team is committed to guiding patients through every step of the process with clear communication, advanced treatment planning, and compassionate care focused on achieving healthy, lasting results.