Orthognathic surgery (also known as ) is a type of orthodontic treatment used to correct severe cases that include bad bites, jawbone abnormalities, and malocclusion.
Oral and maxillofacial surgery is one of the nine recognized dental specialties, and it focuses on treating complex craniofacial cases that involve the mouth, jaw, face, and skull.
If you need surgical orthodontics, Dr. Siara-Olds will work with an to ensure that you receive the best care possible.
WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR ORTHOGNATHIC SURGERY?
In general, the jaws stop growing around age 16 for females and age 18 for males. Once your jaws stop growing, it becomes difficult to move them into proper alignment with orthodontics alone. That’s why we may recommend surgery to improve the relationship between your upper and lower jaws.
First, we’ll place the braces on your teeth to move them into their proper positions before surgery. Then, we’ll refer you for surgery while you still have your braces on, then finish your treatment with braces. In other words, you’ll be wearing braces the entire time.
To know if you’re a candidate for orthognathic surgery, you’ll need to schedule a consultation with Dr. Siara-Olds.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING AND AFTER SURGERY?
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon will perform your orthognathic surgery, which will take place in a hospital. Depending on your unique circumstances, your surgery could take up to several hours.
After surgery, you’ll need to rest for about two weeks. Orthognathic surgery is a major procedure. As such, you’ll need to take time off of work or school so you can heal.
Once your jaws have healed, we’ll have you continue to wear your braces to further improve the function and appearance of your smile. While each patient is different, we’re able to remove most braces within 6 to 12 months after surgery.
After we remove your braces, you’ll wear a retainer to help keep your teeth and jaws in their new positions. Wearing your retainers is a lifelong commitment.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH ORTHOGNATHIC SURGERY?
All surgeries carry risk. But rest assured, doctors have been performing orthognathic surgery in practices and hospitals for many years.
Your comfort is important to us. If you’re concerned about an upcoming procedure, please contact our practice and let us know.
We’d be more than happy to answer any questions you may have and provide you with any additional information.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF SURGICAL ORTHODONTICS?
The main benefit of surgical orthodontics is achieving a beautiful healthy smile that’ll last a lifetime. This means being able to smile with confidence, chew without pain, and avoid uneven wear patterns on your teeth. It also means being able to avoid oral health problems, like cavities, due to crowded teeth.
While orthognathic surgery may sound scary, the benefits are immense and can greatly improve your quality of life.
We treat patients of all ages and are dedicated to providing the best results for each case.
REQUEST A CONSULTATION WITH DR. SIARA-OLDS
Dr. Siara-Olds is a board-certified orthodontist in Milford, MI, who helps patients achieve their smile goals. To request a consultation, please call Siara-Olds Orthodontics at (248) 684-6833. You may also fill out our online contact form and someone from our office will reach out to you soon.
