Surgical Orthodontics Cases

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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.

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.

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

Treatment follows a carefully coordinated sequence:

1. Comprehensive Evaluation – Dr. Bar assesses your teeth, jaws, and facial structure using X-rays, 3D imaging, and photographs
2. Treatment Planning – The orthodontist and surgeon collaborate to plan ideal tooth and jaw positions
3. Pre-Surgical Orthodontics – Braces align your teeth in preparation for surgery (typically 12-18 months)
4. Jaw Surgery – The oral surgeon repositions the jaw(s) and secures them with small plates and screws
5. Post-Surgical Orthodontics – Final tooth alignment and bite refinement (typically 6-12 months)
6. Retention – Retainers maintain your beautiful new smile and bite

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

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

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.

If you've been told you might need jaw surgery, schedule a consultation at Bar Orthodontics. Dr. Bar will provide an honest assessment and explain all your options.

Call (972) 772-2500 or Book your Consultation online using the link below.