What Is Corrective Jaw Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery addresses situations where the upper and lower jaws do not align correctly at the level of the bones, rather than only at the level of individual teeth. While braces and clear aligners move teeth within the jaw, they cannot reposition the jawbones themselves in an adult patient. When a bite issue is primarily skeletal, meaning the jaws are misaligned rather than only the teeth, surgery becomes the tool that allows us to correct what orthodontic movement alone cannot.
Surgery is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, not by our team directly. Our role is to evaluate whether surgery is likely needed, refer you to the surgeon, coordinate with your surgeon on treatment planning, and manage the orthodontic treatment that takes place before and after the surgical procedure.
Do You Need Jaw Surgery?
Many people live with a jaw misalignment for years without realizing that surgery, combined with orthodontic treatment, could meaningfully improve their bite, comfort, and quality of life. You may benefit from an evaluation if you experience:
- Difficulty chewing, biting, or swallowing comfortably
- A significant overbite, underbite, or crossbite that braces or aligners alone cannot correct
- Facial asymmetry or an imbalance between the upper and lower jaw
- Sleep apnea or chronic breathing difficulty connected to jaw position
- Speech difficulty related to how the jaws meet
Not sure whether your case requires surgery or can be treated with braces or aligners alone? Book a free consultation and we will evaluate your bite and jaw alignment to help you understand your options.