Orthodontics And Orthognathic Surgery: Correcting Jaw Misalignment

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. While traditional orthodontic treatments such as braces are effective for many patients there are some cases where orthognathic surgery may be necessary to correct severe jaw misalignment.

What is Orthognathic Surgery?

Orthognathic surgery also known as corrective jaw surgery is a procedure used to correct major discrepancies in the alignment of the jaws. This type of surgery is typically performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in collaboration with an orthodontist. Orthognathic surgery is usually recommended when orthodontic treatments alone are not sufficient to correct the issue.

There are several reasons why a patient may require orthognathic surgery –

Severe overbite or underbite
Cleft palate or other craniofacial anomalies
Difficulty chewing or speaking due to jaw misalignment
TMJ disorders
Facial asymmetry

Before undergoing orthognathic surgery patients will typically undergo a comprehensive evaluation by a team of dental and medical professionals to determine the best course of treatment. This evaluation may include X rays dental impressions and computer imaging to help plan the surgery.

How Orthodontics and Orthognathic Surgery Work Together

In many cases orthognathic surgery is performed in conjunction with orthodontic treatment. Orthodontics helps to align the teeth in their proper positions while orthognathic surgery corrects the underlying skeletal issues in the jaws. By working together orthodontics and orthognathic surgery can help patients achieve a healthy and harmonious bite.

The process typically involves the following steps –

Initial consultation with an orthodontist to discuss treatment options
Comprehensive evaluation to determine the need for orthognathic surgery
Pre surgical orthodontic treatment to align the teeth
Orthognathic surgery to correct the jaw misalignment
Post surgical orthodontic treatment to finalize the bite

Benefits of Orthognathic Surgery

Orthognathic surgery offers several benefits for patients with severe jaw misalignment –

Improved facial appearance and symmetry
Enhanced chewing and speaking abilities
Reduced risk of TMJ disorders and other jaw related issues
Improved overall oral health

While orthognathic surgery is a major surgical procedure advances in technology have made it safer and more effective than ever before. Most patients experience a significant improvement in their quality of life after undergoing orthognathic surgery.

Orthodontics and orthognathic surgery play an important role in correcting severe jaw misalignment and improving the overall oral health and quality of life for patients. By working together orthodontists and oral and maxillofacial surgeons can help patients achieve a healthy and functional bite.

If you are experiencing severe jaw misalignment or other orthodontic issues it is important to consult with a qualified orthodontist to explore your treatment options. Orthognathic surgery may be the solution you need to achieve a harmonious smile and improved oral health.