Surgical Orthodontics

Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is performed to alleviate bite problems or facial esthetic concerns that cannot be properly corrected with braces alone. It is performed in cooperation with your doctor, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and your family dentist. If indicated, this surgery may improve your chewing, breathing and speaking capabilities. The surgery may also greatly improve facial appearance.

How does it work?
Following a treatment plan worked in cooperation with the dentist and oral surgeon, the patient wears braces and visits the orthodontist for adjustments in preparation for surgery. Once the teeth are positioned according to the plan, orthognathic surgery will reposition the jaws, and the teeth will properly fit into a good bite. Orthognathic surgery is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in a hospital. It can take several hours, depending on the amount and type of surgery needed.

It will take one to two weeks to return to work or school after surgery, and six to eight weeks for the jaws to completely heal. After that, Dr. Klatte will continue to adjust your braces until your bite correction is ideal. Braces are usually removed within six to twelve months after surgery. Once the braces are removed, a retainer is worn to maintain proper alignment.