Surgical Orthodontics

Surgical orthodontics in Decatur, GA, also known as orthognathic surgery, refers to surgical procedures performed to correct severe skeletal and dental irregularities that cannot be addressed with traditional orthodontic treatments alone. This type of surgery is typically considered for patients with significant jaw misalignments, such as severe overbites, underbites, crossbites, or facial asymmetry, which affect both function and aesthetics.

The process may involve collaboration between an orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Initially, our orthodontist Decatur, GA, uses braces or aligners to align the teeth in preparation for surgery. The surgical procedure then repositions the jaws into proper alignment, improving bite function, facial balance, and oral health. Post-surgery, orthodontic treatment may be continued to fine-tune the alignment of the teeth and ensure the long-term stability of the results. This comprehensive approach enhances the patient's appearance and improves chewing, speaking, and breathing functions, leading to significant improvements in quality of life. 

When Might Surgical Orthodontics Be Needed?

• Individuals with significant overbites (where the upper teeth protrude excessively over the lower teeth) or underbites (where the lower teeth extend beyond the upper teeth) may require orthognathic surgery to reposition the jaws for proper alignment. 

• When one side of the face appears noticeably different due to skeletal discrepancies in the jaws, surgery may be needed to achieve facial harmony and balance. 

• Jaw misalignments that affect the function of the teeth, tongue, or airways can lead to chewing, speech clarity, and breathing issues. Surgery can correct these functional problems by aligning the jaws correctly. 

• In cases where the jawbones have stopped growing, especially in adults, orthognathic surgery becomes necessary to reposition the bones into a more ideal relationship. 

• Orthognathic surgery may be recommended to create adequate space in the jaw for impacted teeth to erupt correctly. Contact us today to learn more.

• Severe facial trauma resulting in fractures or deformities of the jawbones may require surgical intervention to restore normal function and aesthetics. 

• Patients with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders resistant to conservative treatments may benefit from surgical correction to improve jaw alignment and reduce symptoms. 

• While functional improvements are the primary focus, orthognathic surgery can also address aesthetic concerns related to jaw misalignments, enhancing overall facial appearance and symmetry. 

The Surgical Orthodontics Process

Comprehensive Evaluation and Treatment Planning 

The journey begins with a thorough assessment performed by our orthodontist at CBW Orthodontics. Advanced imaging techniques, such as 3D scans and X-rays, are used to precisely evaluate the alignment of the jaws, teeth, and facial structure. This evaluation helps determine the extent of the misalignment and guides the development of a personalized treatment plan. 

Pre-Surgical Orthodontic Treatment 

Before surgery, the patient undergoes orthodontic treatment to align the teeth and create the best possible dental arch alignment. Braces or clear aligners are often used to move the teeth into a more favorable position. This preliminary phase ensures that the teeth are properly positioned to fit together correctly after surgery. 

Surgical Procedure 

Orthognathic surgery is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in a hospital setting under general anesthesia. The specific surgical techniques vary depending on the individual's needs but generally involve cutting the jawbone and repositioning it into a more balanced and functional alignment. Plates, screws, or wires may be used to stabilize the bones while they are healing.

Post-Surgical Orthodontic Adjustment 

Following surgery, the patient continues orthodontic treatment to fine-tune the bite and optimize dental alignment. This phase ensures that the teeth fit together correctly and that the surgical changes integrate seamlessly into the overall facial structure. The length of post-surgical orthodontic treatment varies but typically lasts several months to ensure the stability and longevity of the results. 

The Benefits of Surgical Orthodontics 

Corrects Severe Malocclusions 

Orthognathic surgery in Decatur, GA, effectively addresses severe overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites that significantly impact dental function and facial aesthetics. Repositioning the jaws improves the alignment of teeth, ensuring a proper bite and enhancing chewing efficiency. 

Enhances Facial Harmony 

Surgery helps achieve better facial symmetry and harmony by correcting jaw misalignments that may cause asymmetry or disproportionate facial features. This improvement enhances overall facial aesthetics and boosts self-confidence. 

Improves Bite Function 

Proper jaw alignment achieved through surgery enhances bite function, speech clarity, and oral function. Patients can experience an improved ability to chew food, speak clearly, and maintain oral hygiene.

Addresses Breathing and Airway Issues 

In cases where jaw misalignment contributes to obstructive sleep apnea or other breathing difficulties, orthognathic surgery can help open the airway and improve breathing patterns, leading to better sleep quality and overall health. 

Long-Term Dental Health 

By correcting severe malocclusions and aligning the jaws properly, orthognathic surgery reduces the risk of dental problems such as premature tooth wear, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, and gum disease. This promotes long-term oral health and reduces the need for future dental interventions. 

Enhances Quality of Life 

Beyond physical benefits, surgical orthodontics often significantly improves quality of life. After treatment, patients report enhanced self-esteem, social confidence, and overall well-being as they achieve a balanced and attractive facial appearance. 

Surgical orthodontics offers a transformative solution for individuals with significant jaw discrepancies that impact dental function and facial aesthetics. If you or someone you know is struggling with severe jaw misalignment, visit CBW Orthodontics at 2855 Candler Road, Suite #12, Decatur, GA 30034, or call (404) 243-3210 to determine if orthognathic surgery is the right solution for your specific needs and goals.