Surgical Treatment
The need for surgical orthodontics occurs when the jaws do not line up correctly, and a proper bite cannot be achieved with orthodontic treatment alone. Surgery will help properly align the jaw, and orthodontic braces will then be used to move the teeth into their proper position. All growth must be completed before jaw surgery can be performed. However the pre-surgical tooth movements can begin one to two years prior to these ages. Jaw growth is usually completed by age 16 for girls and 18 for boys.
How Does Orthodontics Surgery Work?
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon will perform your surgery. The surgery tends to take place in a hospital or can be done within a clinic. After your orthognathic surgery, jaws are placed into proper alignment and several more months in braces will allow the teeth to fit into their proper positions.
You will have about a two-week rest period. We recommend that you schedule some time away from work and school during the healing process. Most braces are removed within six to 12 months following surgery. After your braces are removed, you will wear a retainer to help maintain your new smile.