Surgical Orthodontics for Jaw Alignment
In some cases, traditional orthodontic treatment alone isn’t enough to correct serious jaw misalignment. That’s where surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, comes in.
This advanced treatment combines the expertise of an orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to correct bite problems, realign the jaws, and dramatically improve both function and facial aesthetics.
What Is Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics is a type of treatment used to correct skeletal discrepancies that affect a patient’s ability to chew, speak, or breathe properly — and, in many cases, to improve the overall appearance of the face. This is typically reserved for severe cases that involve jawbone abnormalities, malocclusion, or bad bites that can’t be corrected with orthodontics alone.
Oral and maxillofacial surgery is one of the nine recognized dental specialties, focusing on treating complex craniofacial issues involving the mouth, face, jaw, and skull.
By repositioning the upper or lower jaw, orthognathic surgery allows the teeth and jaws to come into proper alignment, where braces alone cannot achieve full correction.
Benefits of surgical orthodontics include:
Improved jaw alignment and bite function
Enhanced ability to speak and chew
Better airway and breathing function
Correction of aesthetic jaw concerns
A more balanced and symmetrical facial appearance
Who Is a Candidate for Orthognathic Surgery?
Surgical orthodontics may be recommended for adults who:
Have completed jaw growth (typically by age 16 for females and 18 for males)
Have improper bites or severe jaw misalignment
Experience abnormal jaw pain, pressure, or difficulty chewing
Have aesthetic concerns due to misaligned jaws
Cannot achieve a proper bite with braces alone
Depending on your case, Dr. Robert Marshall may begin treatment with braces before jaw growth is complete. Surgery is then scheduled once growth is stabilized. If you’re a candidate, we will coordinate closely with a trusted oral and maxillofacial surgeon to ensure you receive the best possible care.
How Does the Process Work?
In some cases, your bite may appear to worsen during orthodontic treatment — this is often a sign that jaw surgery will be necessary to achieve full correction.
During orthognathic surgery:
The lower jaw may be moved forward or backward by separating the bone behind the teeth
The upper jaw can be repositioned upward, downward, or forward
Bone may be added, reshaped, or removed to achieve proper alignment
Facial bones may also be adjusted for symmetry and functional improvement
This surgery is performed in a hospital by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and can take several hours, depending on the case.
What to Expect After Surgery
After surgery:
Plan for about 2 weeks of rest before returning to work or school
Bone healing generally takes 4 to 8 weeks
Dr. Marshall will fine-tune your bite with continued adjustments
Braces are typically removed 6 to 12 months post-surgery
You’ll be provided with a retainer afterward to preserve your results
Since orthognathic surgery is a major procedure, you should prepare for some downtime and follow post-operative instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery.
Understanding the Risks and Rewards
As with any major medical procedure, there are risks involved with orthognathic surgery. While complications are rare, your safety and comfort are our top priorities. If you have any concerns or questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us — we’re here to help and guide you every step of the way.
The rewards of surgical orthodontics are long-lasting:
A properly aligned bite, improved function, and a confident, beautiful smile that can last a lifetime.
Whether you’re correcting a bad bite, jaw abnormality, or long-standing alignment issues, orthognathic surgery can truly transform your oral health — and your life.