Surgical Orthodontics for Jaw Alignment

In some cases, traditional orthodontic treatment alone isn’t enough to achieve a healthy bite or balanced facial structure. That’s where surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, comes in.

This advanced treatment combines the expertise of Dr. Dalia Shlash, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, to correct complex jaw issues, improving how you speak, chew, breathe, and look.

Surgical orthodontics offers transformative results for patients who need more than braces alone.

What Is Surgical Orthodontics?

Surgical orthodontics focuses on realigning the jaws when there are structural problems that can’t be corrected with braces alone. It’s typically recommended for adult patients with:

• Significant bite problems
• Jaw misalignment
• Facial aesthetic concerns

This type of surgery not only enhances function but can also dramatically improve facial appearance and symmetry.

Who Is a Candidate for Orthognathic Surgery?

Orthognathic surgery is most often recommended for adults who have finished growing. Jaw development typically ends:

• Around age 17-18 for females
• Around age 18 for males

If orthodontic problems persist after growth is complete, and especially if braces alone cannot resolve them, surgical intervention may be the most effective solution.

How Does the Process Work?

In some cases, starting braces alone may reveal a deeper issue: as the teeth move, the bite may actually get worse. That’s when surgical orthodontics may be recommended.

Here’s how the treatment works:

1. Braces First

Pre-surgical orthodontics begins to move the teeth into alignment. Usually, 8-10 months of pre-surgical orthodontic treatment is required before jaw surgery can be performed.

2. Orthognathic Surgery

Performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, the jaw bones are repositioned to achieve optimal alignment. This may involve:

• Moving the upper or lower jaw forward, backward, up, or down
• Separating, reshaping, or adding bone for balance and function

Surgery typically takes several hours, depending on complexity, and often requires 4-6 weeks of post-surgical healing.

3. Post-Surgical Braces Adjustments

After surgery, minor adjustments are made to fine-tune the bite, requiring an additional 8-12 months of fine-tuning orthodontic treatment.

What to Expect After Surgery

Most patients are able to return to work or school within 4-6 weeks; however, this is determined by the oral surgeon who performs the surgery and evaluates post-surgical healing.  Full healing generally takes between 4 to 8 weeks.

Here’s what the post-surgical phase looks like:

• Braces remain on for an additional 8–12 months after surgery
• Once braces are removed, a retainer is prescribed to maintain alignment
• You’ll have periodic follow-ups with your Oral Surgeon and with Dr. Shlash for bite checks and refinements

While recovery takes time, the life-changing results make it well worth it.

Considering Surgical Orthodontics?

If you’ve been told that your bite or jaw issues can’t be corrected with braces alone, Dr. Shlash can evaluate whether surgical orthodontics is the right solution for you.

Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and explore your options for long-term comfort, function, and facial harmony.