Surgical Orthodontics for Improving Jaw Alignment and Facial Balance
When braces alone aren’t enough to correct bite or jaw alignment, surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, can help. This advanced treatment combines orthodontic care with oral surgery to improve the function and aesthetics of the face and smile.
What Is Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics refers to corrective jaw surgery that realigns the jaws and teeth to improve chewing, speaking, breathing, and overall facial symmetry. It’s often recommended when jaw misalignment is too severe to be corrected by braces alone.
This treatment involves collaboration between your Dr. Frederick Sacramone and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, ensuring a comprehensive and customized approach to your care.
Benefits of Orthognathic Surgery
- Corrects bite problems (open bite, underbite, overbite)
- Improves the ability to chew and speak
- Enhances facial aesthetics and symmetry
- Alleviates sleep apnea or breathing issues caused by jaw positioning
Who Is a Candidate for Jaw Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery is typically recommended for adult patients who:
- Have finished growing (jaw growth is complete, around age 16 for females and 18 for males)
- Have significant jaw misalignment or bite problems
- Experience functional or aesthetic concerns related to their jaw position
Orthodontic Preparation
Braces or other appliances may be used before surgery to begin aligning the teeth, even before jaw growth is fully complete. These pre-surgical movements help ensure the most stable and functional results after surgery.
How Does Surgical Orthodontics Work?
Sometimes, during orthodontic treatment, braces can improve tooth alignment but make bite issues more noticeable; this is often a sign that jaw correction is needed.
In these cases, Dr. Sacramone may recommend orthognathic surgery to reposition the jaws into better alignment. The surgeon will carefully adjust the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both, depending on your unique anatomy.
Surgical Techniques May Include
- Lower jaw (mandibular) surgery – Repositions the lower jaw forward or backward by cutting and realigning the bone behind the teeth.
- Upper jaw (maxillary) surgery – Raises, lowers, or moves the upper jaw forward or backward, often requiring bone grafting or reshaping.
- Facial bone adjustments – In some cases, cheekbones or other facial structures may be repositioned for balance and stability.
What to Expect After Surgery
Recovery Timeline:
- Initial recovery: 1–2 weeks (most patients can return to school or work during this period)
- Full healing: 4–8 weeks
- Post-surgery orthodontics: Dr. Sacramone will make final adjustments with braces
- Braces removal: Usually occurs 6–12 months after surgery
- Retainer wear: Required after braces to maintain your new smile
Dr. Sacramone will monitor healing and ensure everything is progressing properly throughout this period.
Ready to Learn More?
Orthognathic surgery can dramatically improve your quality of life by correcting bite issues and creating a more balanced facial profile. If you’re experiencing functional challenges or have concerns about jaw alignment, we’re here to help you explore your options.
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and find out if surgical orthodontics is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Jaw alignment concerns can affect much more than appearance, they can impact how you chew, speak, breathe, and feel day to day. If you’ve been told you may need surgical orthodontics, it’s completely normal to have questions. Below are some of the most common questions patients in Newtonville, MA, search for when exploring orthognathic surgery with Sacramone Orthodontics.
How do I know if I need jaw surgery or just braces?
Many patients can be treated with braces alone, but severe bite or jaw discrepancies may require surgical correction. The best way to know is through a detailed orthodontic evaluation with Dr. Sacramone.
Is orthognathic surgery considered cosmetic or medically necessary?
While surgery can improve facial balance, it is often recommended for functional reasons such as difficulty chewing, chronic jaw discomfort, breathing concerns, or significant bite problems. Many cases are medically necessary rather than purely cosmetic.
Does insurance cover surgical orthodontic treatment?
Coverage varies by plan, but some medical insurance policies may cover jaw surgery when it’s deemed medically necessary. Our team can help guide you through the process and coordinate documentation when needed.
How long does the entire surgical orthodontic process take?
The full timeline depends on your case, but treatment often includes several months of braces before surgery and 6–12 months of orthodontic finishing afterward.
What type of surgeon performs orthognathic surgery?
Jaw surgery is performed by a trained oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Dr. Sacramone works closely with trusted surgical specialists to ensure coordinated, high-quality care.