Surgical Orthodontics Cases
Some orthodontic problems extend beyond tooth position to involve the underlying jaw structure. When the jaws themselves are misaligned, too long, too short, or asymmetric, braces alone cannot achieve optimal results. At Bar Orthodontics in Rockwall, TX, Dr. Bar coordinates comprehensive surgical orthodontic treatment, partnering with skilled oral surgeons to correct severe skeletal discrepancies.
What Is Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics, also called orthognathic surgery, combines orthodontic treatment with corrective jaw surgery to address skeletal problems that can’t be fixed with braces or aligners alone.
This approach treats the underlying cause of severe bite problems rather than just compensating for them with tooth movement. The orthodontist and oral surgeon work as a team to plan and execute treatment.
Who Needs Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics may be recommended for:
- Severe underbite (lower jaw protrudes beyond upper jaw)
- Significant overbite (upper jaw extends too far forward)
- Open bite that won't respond to conventional treatment
- Facial asymmetry from uneven jaw growth
- Receding lower jaw affecting airway and appearance
- Protruding lower jaw
- Inability to close lips comfortably
- Sleep apnea related to jaw position
- TMJ problems caused by skeletal discrepancy
- Difficulty chewing, speaking, or breathing due to jaw position
The Surgical Orthodontic Process
Treatment follows a carefully coordinated sequence:
What to Expect from Jaw Surgery
Orthognathic surgery is performed in a hospital under general anesthesia:
- Surgery duration varies from 1-4 hours depending on complexity
- Incisions are made inside the mouth, leaving no visible scars
- Hospital stay is typically 1-2 nights
- Initial recovery takes 2-3 weeks before returning to work/school
- Jaw may be immobilized briefly with elastics (wiring jaws shut is rarely needed today)
- Full healing takes 6-12 weeks, with gradual return to normal diet
- Final results become apparent as swelling resolves over several months
Benefits of Surgical Orthodontics
Patients who complete surgical orthodontic treatment experience:
- Properly aligned jaws and balanced facial proportions
- Dramatically improved bite function
- Better chewing, speaking, and breathing
- Enhanced facial aesthetics and profile
- Improved airway for better sleep
- Long-term stability of results
- Increased self-confidence
- Resolution of chronic jaw pain in many cases
Is Surgical Orthodontics Right for You?
Dr. Bar will thoroughly evaluate your case to determine if surgical orthodontics is necessary. In some cases, newer techniques like MSE (Maxillary Skeletal Expander) or TADs may provide alternatives to surgery.
However, for significant skeletal discrepancies in fully grown patients, surgical orthodontics often provides the most stable, comprehensive, and aesthetically pleasing results.