Services

Surgical Orthodontics

Orthognathic surgery for severe bite and jaw concerns — delivered with full care and coordination every step of the way.

Overview

About the procedure

Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, corrects severe cases involving bad bites, jaw bone abnormalities, and malocclusion. It focuses on treating complex craniofacial cases involving the mouth, jaw, face, and skull — one of nine recognized dental specialties.

Coordinated specialist care

Your orthodontist works directly with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon throughout your treatment — ensuring every step, from surgical planning to post-operative fine-tuning, is carefully managed together.

Candidacy

When might it be needed?

Surgical orthodontics is used when the jaws don't line up correctly and a proper bite cannot be achieved with orthodontic treatment alone. Surgery corrects the jaw alignment, after which braces move the teeth into their final position.

Your orthodontist will determine if orthognathic surgery is needed based on the severity of your case. Depending on your jaw alignment, you may or may not require surgery.

Jaw growth milestones

18
Females — jaw typically finishes growing
21
Males — jaw typically finishes growing

Surgery is only performed once the jaw has fully developed and growth has stopped.

The process

How does it work?

Orthognathic surgery takes place in a hospital and can take several hours depending on the case. Here's what to expect from start to finish.

01
Surgery

Performed in a hospital by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Duration varies by individual case.

02
Recovery

Plan for a ~2-week rest period. We recommend time away from work and school during healing.

03
Fine-tuning

Once your jaw has healed, your orthodontist fine-tunes your bite using braces.

04
Braces off

Most braces are removed within 6–12 months post-surgery. A retainer maintains your new smile.

What to know

Risks and rewards

Risks

Orthognathic surgery is a well-established procedure performed successfully for many years. As with any major surgery, inherent risks exist — but our team and the oral surgeon are dedicated to keeping you informed and confident at every step. The surgeon's office will thoroughly review all aspects of the procedure before you begin. Please reach out with any questions.

Rewards

For most patients, the greatest reward is achieving a beautiful, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. Whether correcting a bad bite, malocclusion, or jaw abnormality, orthognathic surgery can restore your confidence and leave you smiling for years to come.

Questions about surgical orthodontics?

Book a consultation and we'll walk through your options together — no referral required.

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