Surgical orthodontics, also called orthognathic surgery, is used to correct severe jaw alignment problems that cannot be fully corrected with braces or clear aligners alone. When the jaws do not fit together properly, it can affect your ability to chew comfortably, speak clearly, breathe well during sleep, and feel confident in your facial appearance.
At San Marcos Orthodontics, Dr. Nader Ehsani and Dr. Sherry Sabet work closely with trusted oral and maxillofacial surgeons when surgical orthodontics is recommended. Our team uses advanced digital planning to help patients understand their diagnosis, visualize treatment goals, and feel confident about the process from start to finish.
What Is Surgical Orthodontics (Orthognathic Surgery)?
Surgical orthodontics is a treatment approach that combines orthodontics (braces or clear aligners) with jaw surgery performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. This combination is designed to correct jaw-related concerns such as skeletal bite problems, facial imbalance, or jaw positioning issues that cannot be resolved with orthodontics alone.
Orthognathic surgery helps reposition the jaws so that the bite becomes more stable, functional, and healthy long-term.
When Is Orthognathic Surgery Recommended?
Surgery may be recommended when the jaws are significantly out of alignment and cause functional problems that orthodontics alone cannot fully correct.
Common reasons include:
- A bite that does not line up properly due to jaw position
- Difficulty chewing or biting efficiently
- Speech issues related to jaw structure
- Facial imbalance caused by jaw asymmetry or jaw size differences
- Chronic bite instability that cannot be corrected with orthodontics alone
While orthognathic surgery is most commonly performed for adults, it may also be recommended for older teens once jaw growth is complete.
How Do I Know If I Need Surgical Orthodontics?
The best way to know is through a comprehensive orthodontic evaluation.
At your consultation, our doctors will evaluate:
- Bite alignment
- Jaw relationship and facial balance
- Functional concerns (chewing, speaking, airway)
- Long-term stability of orthodontic correction
If surgery is not necessary, we will recommend the most conservative treatment option possible. Many patients are relieved to learn that modern orthodontic techniques can often improve alignment without surgery.
What Happens During Surgical Orthodontic Treatment?
Surgical orthodontics typically happens in stages:
- Orthodontic preparation
Braces or aligners are used to position the teeth properly before surgery. - Orthognathic surgery
Surgery is performed in a hospital setting by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. - Final orthodontic detailing
After healing begins, orthodontic treatment continues to fine-tune the bite and final alignment.
This staged process helps ensure the best long-term function and stability.
How Does San Marcos Orthodontics Plan for Jaw Surgery?
At San Marcos Orthodontics, we use advanced digital imaging and computerized treatment planning to support precision and predictability.
This technology allows us to:
- Map out the bite and jaw relationship in detail
- Show patients the expected functional and aesthetic improvements
- Coordinate planning with the surgeon for smoother treatment
- Improve overall treatment accuracy and long-term stability
Modern materials such as titanium plates and miniature screws are often used during surgery to support stability as the jaw heals.
What Is Recovery Like After Orthognathic Surgery?
Recovery varies depending on the complexity of the case, but most patients can expect:
- A rest period of approximately two weeks
- Swelling and soreness during early healing
- Gradual return to normal daily routines
- Continued orthodontic care after healing to finalize the bite
We recommend planning time away from school or work during the initial healing phase to allow your body to recover comfortably.
Will I Still Need Braces After Surgery?
Yes. Orthognathic surgery is part of a complete orthodontic plan, not a replacement for orthodontics.
After surgery:
- Braces are typically worn for 6 to 12 months to complete final alignment
- A retainer is worn afterward to help maintain your results
