The Art of Surgical Orthodontics
Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a specialized branch of orthodontics that combines orthodontic treatment with corrective jaw surgery to achieve optimal facial balance, function, and aesthetics.
Let's explore how surgical orthodontics can transform your smile and improve your overall oral health:
Understanding Surgical Orthodontics
Surgical orthodontics is recommended for patients with severe jaw misalignments or skeletal discrepancies that cannot be corrected through orthodontic treatment alone.
- Overbites: When the upper jaw protrudes significantly over the lower jaw, resulting in an overbite or “deep bite.”
- Underbites: When the lower jaw protrudes beyond the upper jaw, causing an underbite or “bull dog bite.”
- Open Bites: When the upper and lower teeth do not meet when biting down, leaving an open space between them.
- Facial Asymmetry: When the jaws are misaligned, resulting in facial asymmetry or an uneven appearance.
The Surgical Orthodontics Process
The process of surgical orthodontics typically involves the following steps:
Comprehensive Evaluation
Our team will conduct a thorough evaluation of your dental and facial structure using advanced imaging technology, such as 3D cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), to assess the underlying skeletal issues.
Orthodontic Preparation
Before surgery, you will undergo orthodontic treatment to align your teeth and prepare them for surgery. This phase may involve wearing braces or clear aligners to move your teeth into the optimal position.
Surgical Intervention
Once your teeth are properly aligned, you'll undergo corrective jaw surgery performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. During surgery, the jaws will be repositioned to correct the underlying skeletal discrepancies.
Post-Surgical Orthodontics
Following surgery, you'll continue with orthodontic treatment to fine-tune your bite and ensure long-term stability. This phase may involve wearing braces or aligners for several months to achieve the desired results.
Benefits of Surgical Orthodontics
- Improved Facial Balance: Surgical orthodontics can enhance the balance and symmetry of your facial features by correcting jaw discrepancies and aligning your bite.
- Enhanced Function: By repositioning the jaws into proper alignment, surgical orthodontics can improve your bite function, speech, and chewing ability.
- Long-Term Stability: Surgical orthodontics provides long-lasting results, minimizing the risk of relapse and maintaining the integrity of your smile over time.
- Enhanced Aesthetics: Beyond functional improvements, surgical orthodontics can enhance the aesthetics of your smile, boosting your confidence and self-esteem.
- Improved Airway: Many times surgical movements of the upper and lower jaw can improve airway problems in those patients affected by obstructive sleep apnea.
Transform Your Smile with Surgical Orthodontics
Ready to achieve a harmonious balance between your teeth, jaws, and facial aesthetics? Schedule a consultation with Bocklet Orthodontics today! We are specialists, with advanced training in surgical orthodontics. Our experienced team will evaluate your smile, discuss your treatment options, and recommend a personalized surgical orthodontic plan tailored to your unique needs. With our expertise and comprehensive approach, you’ll achieve a beautiful smile, balanced facial appearance and improved oral health for years to come.
Don't let complex dental and skeletal issues hold you back from smiling with confidence. Contact us today and take the first step towards a transformed smile with surgical orthodontics at Bocklet Orthodontics!