Though most conditions can be treated with braces, Invialign®, and/or an orthodontic appliance, more severe cases may require surgical orthodontics.
Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery and corrective jaw surgery, is a more intensive orthodontic treatment that serves to treat jaw irregularities, skeletal issues and severe misalignments.
Through early orthodontic treatment, we can help to prevent the need for surgical orthodontics later in life. This is why it’s important that children receive their first orthodontic exam by the age of 7.
Dr. Dunn and Dr. Schreiber can identify skeletal issues or conditions that are soon to become problematic, and we can create a custom treatment plan to intervene and correct the jaw bones while they’re still developing!
Once the jaw bones have stabilized, jaw surgery may be necessary.
| Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery | Corrective Jaw Surgery |
| When a patient experiences trauma to the face, oral and maxillofacial surgery may be required to reconstruct the face, jaw, oral cavity, head or neck. | Corrective jaw surgery is effective for treating irregularities, deformities or severe misalignments of the jaw bones. |
It can be difficult to tell if you need surgical orthodontics without a professional opinion. That’s why we offer complimentary exams! Dr. Dunn or Dr. Schreiber will examine your teeth and jaw bones with no charge, no risk, and no obligation. We genuinely want to help you make the best decision for your smile.
There are a few telling conditions that may indicate a need for surgical orthodontics, including:
At your first visit to our offices, we’ll determine whether surgical orthodontics is the most efficient treatment route for your case.
Jaw surgery is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, and typically completed in a hospital.
If we determine that orthognathic surgery is necessary, we will refer you to an experienced surgeon. The surgery may take a few hours, and generally requires a two-week recovery period post-surgery. We advise that you take time off of work or school to allow for a complete recovery!
Once your jaws have healed, Dr. Dunn or Dr. Schreiber will reassess your bite to ensure that the treatment was effective. You will typically undergo braces treatment after surgery, for the next 6 to 12 months depending on your case.
After your braces treatment, you’ll wear a custom retainer to stabilize your teeth and support them in their new positions!
Like any major surgery, there are risks to orthognathic surgery. You can rest assured that this procedure has been performed plenty of times, and your surgeon will be highly experienced with extensive training in corrective jaw surgery.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us! We’re here to guide you through the process and address any concerns you may have.
If necessary to treat your condition, corrective jaw surgery can help you discover your true smile. Jaw surgery will reposition the jaw bones to create a healthy alignment and bite position.
Corrective jaw surgery will restore your ability to bite, chew, and speak properly. Because the jaw bones play a critical role in facial structure, corrective surgery can significantly improve your appearance, boost your self-esteem and renew your confidence.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions.
Dr. Dunn, Dr. Schreiber, and our experienced team are here to guide you and support you along your treatment process, while you achieve the perfect smile.
Ready to get started? Request your complimentary exam at our conveniently located orthodontist offices in Wetumpka, Millbrook, or Montgomery today!
