Surgical Orthodontics

Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is used to correct more complex bite and jaw alignment issues that cannot be treated with braces or clear aligners alone. At Kania & Khan Orthodontics, Dr. Michael Kania and Dr. Salaar Khan work closely with oral and maxillofacial surgeons to provide coordinated, comprehensive care for patients who need advanced treatment.

What Is Surgical Orthodontics?

Surgical orthodontics combines orthodontic treatment with corrective jaw surgery to improve the alignment of the teeth and jaws. This approach is typically recommended when there are significant discrepancies in jaw position that affect function, comfort, or facial balance.

Orthodontic treatment is used before and after surgery to ensure proper alignment and long-term stability.

Who May Need Surgical Orthodontic Treatment?

Surgical orthodontics is usually recommended for adults whose jaw growth is complete. It may be necessary for patients with:

  • Severe bite problems such as overbite, underbite, or open bite
  • Jaw misalignment that affects chewing or speaking
  • Facial imbalance related to jaw positioning
  • Difficulty breathing related to structural concerns

A thorough evaluation will determine if surgical treatment is the right option.

What Does The Treatment Process Involve?

Surgical orthodontic treatment is completed in phases and requires coordination between your orthodontist and oral surgeon.

The process typically includes:

  • Initial orthodontic treatment to align the teeth
  • Surgical correction of jaw position
  • Post-surgical orthodontic care to refine the bite

Each phase is carefully planned to achieve the best functional and aesthetic outcome.

What Are The Benefits Of Surgical Orthodontics?

Correcting jaw alignment can significantly improve both function and appearance. Benefits may include:

  • Improved bite function for chewing and speaking
  • Better facial balance and symmetry
  • Relief from jaw strain or discomfort
  • Enhanced long-term oral health

This type of treatment can provide life-changing improvements for patients with more complex concerns.

How Long Does Surgical Orthodontic Treatment Take?

Treatment timelines vary depending on the complexity of the case, but most surgical orthodontic treatments take between 18 and 36 months. This includes time before and after surgery to ensure proper alignment and stability.

A Coordinated Approach To Advanced Care

At Kania & Khan Orthodontics, we take a team-based approach to surgical orthodontics. Dr. Kania and Dr. Khan work closely with experienced surgeons to ensure every step of your treatment is carefully planned and executed for the best possible results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Surgical orthodontics often raises important questions. Here are answers to help you better understand the process.

If your bite issues are caused by jaw misalignment rather than tooth position alone, surgery may be recommended. A full evaluation will determine the best approach.

Yes. Jaw surgery is a well-established procedure performed by trained oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Your care team will guide you through every step to ensure safety and comfort.

Yes, but in a positive way. Surgical orthodontics often improves facial balance and symmetry by correcting jaw positioning.

Initial recovery typically takes a few weeks, with continued healing over several months. Your surgeon will provide detailed recovery instructions.

Yes. Orthodontic treatment continues after surgery to fine-tune your bite and ensure long-term stability.