Every smile has its unique challenges. For some, that means seeking help beyond traditional orthodontic treatment.
Orthognathic surgery is for patients with severe bite or jaw misalignments. And while we know that hearing you need surgery can be scary, it is important to understand why it is necessary, including the risks and the benefits.
Once you have this information, you are better equipped to make an informed decision about your oral health. So, here’s what you need to know.
Surgical Orthodontics: What Is It?
In a nutshell, surgical orthodontics combines corrective jaw surgery with an orthodontic treatment like braces. The surgery addresses severe overbites, underbites, crossbites, open bites, as well as jaw concerns that impact chewing, speaking, and facial symmetry. The orthodontic treatment comes before and after the surgery to align the teeth and encourage a proper bite.
It is important to note that most orthognathic surgeries are performed on those individuals who have reached full growth and development of the jaw. In other words, young kids and some teens are not ideal candidates.
What Are the Benefits of Surgical Orthodontics?
Having a dental professional recommend surgery means that a successful outcome can be life-changing. Here are a few things you can expect.
Better Functionality
Without a proper bite alignment, patients are likely to experience issues speaking, biting, and chewing. After surgery, they should be able to do this without ease and comfort.
Improved Oral Health
Good oral hygiene is essential for good oral health. When the teeth and jaws are not aligned, it can be tough to properly brush and floss without leaving some areas exposed. Thankfully, this surgery changes things, reducing your risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
Enhanced Facial Balance
Jaw surgery can provide symmetry between both sides of the face. The result? A boost in appearance that leads to an overall increase in confidence and self-esteem.
Getting to the Root Cause
Rather than just trying to do what you can to improve bite issues using all the orthodontic tools, surgery allows you to get to the root cause, leaving you with long-lasting results.
What Are the Risks of Surgical Orthodontics?
There are risks with every surgery. So while there are some great benefits of surgical orthodontics, it is important to acknowledge the potential risks, although rare.
Generally, surgical risks include the chance of bleeding, infection, swelling, and the discomfort that follows. And it is always followed by a recovery time that can last several weeks, requiring patients to make lifestyle adjustments.
Risks associated with numbness of the lips, cheeks, or jaw after surgery are also possible. It is worth noting that only a small percentage of patients will experience this, and the effects are temporary.
Finally, when a major jaw correction is made, it will impact your overall facial appearance and its ability to function. Some patients require time to get used to the major change, whether they think they will or not, before the surgery—something to keep in mind going into the procedure.
Is Surgical Orthodontics Right For You?
Most bite issues can be fixed with the help of traditional orthodontics. If you are a patient with a severe jaw misalignment or facial imbalance that requires some additional treatment, surgical orthodontics may be the most effective solution.
Take note of the risks, then reap the benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does surgical orthodontic treatment take?
Recovery from the surgery is often a few weeks. But because the full treatment involves both surgery and the use of traditional orthodontics, overall, it can last about 18 to 24 months.
Does insurance cover surgical orthodontics?
Your specific coverage will depend on your insurance plan. However, surgical orthodontics is often considered ‘medically necessary,’ so there is a good chance that your carrier will offer partial coverage, at least. We will review all of your benefits and financing options before the surgery.
At Advanced Orthodontics, we are here to walk you through every step of your orthodontic journey—whether or not it includes surgery. If you are in Canton, MI, and have been dreaming of a healthy, confident smile, contact us today to schedule a consultation.