Next Level Orthodontics is proud to offer surgical treatments for our orthodontic patients. Surgical orthodontics, also called orthognathic surgery, is used for severe cases of bad bites, jaw bone abnormalities, and malocclusions.
Oral and maxillofacial surgery is considered a dental specialty and helps complex cases involving the mouth, jaw, face, and skull. If your case requires surgical orthodontics, your orthodontist will work with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to provide you with the best and most comprehensive care possible.
Surgical orthodontics helps patients improve their bites, though it can also help with other aesthetic concerns, such as facial structure and symmetry. Surgery can only be completed after the jaw is finished growing. This typically happens by age sixteen for females and age eighteen for males.
Surgery is needed when the jaw does not line up correctly, and no amount of braces can correct the misalignment. We will line up your jaw correctly so that your braces can do the job that they are meant to.
Surgery is not always necessary, so it is important to discuss your case with an oral surgeon. They will be able to discuss your treatment options, whether they include surgery or not.
If surgery is needed, it will be done by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. The operation will be completed in a hospital and can take up to a few hours, depending on your needs.
After surgery, you will need to rest for about two weeks. It is considered a major operation, and you should take some time off of work and school while you heal. After you heal, your orthodontist will work on straightening your teeth. Most people have to wear braces for six months to a year after surgery. Then, you will need a retainer to maintain your beautiful smile and hard work.
Like all surgeries, there are risks. However, orthognathic operations have been around for years and are proven to be safe and effective overall. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to ask questions before the procedure.
Most people can’t wait to have the smile they dream of. Whether you need surgery to correct your bite, a malocclusion, or a jaw abnormality, we can help you have a smile you want to show off.