For some patients, orthodontic treatment goes beyond straightening teeth. When jaw alignment or bite issues are rooted in bone structure, not just dental positioning, traditional braces may fall short.
That’s where surgical orthodontics becomes a powerful tool for achieving long-term oral health, function, and aesthetics.
If you’ve been told you might need jaw surgery as part of your treatment, you’re not alone. Many adults are surprised to learn that surgical orthodontics can be the most effective route to achieving a stronger, more confident smile.
What Is Surgical Orthodontics?
Also called orthognathic surgery, surgical orthodontics is a corrective procedure that repositions the upper and lower jaws, or both, to achieve optimal alignment and facial symmetry.
It’s typically used to correct skeletal issues that braces or aligners alone can’t fix — issues that affect your bite, facial symmetry, or even your ability to breathe correctly.
The process involves close collaboration between an orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Your orthodontist prepares your bite with braces, aligning the teeth in advance of surgery.
Then, the surgeon adjusts the jawbones to their proper position. After surgery, your orthodontist fine-tunes the bite to ensure everything functions properly.
Who Typically Needs Surgical Orthodontics?
While surgical orthodontics isn’t for everyone, it’s often recommended for adults with fully developed jaws who have:
- Severe overbites, underbites, or open bites
- Significant jaw or facial asymmetry
- Obstructed airways affecting sleep or breathing
- Chronic jaw pain or TMJ issues
If traditional orthodontic treatments can’t fully correct your bite or jaw alignment, surgery may be the most effective option for lasting results.
The Top Benefits of Surgical Orthodontics
Choosing surgical orthodontics can unlock a range of transformative benefits. From function to confidence, here’s what makes it worth considering.
1. Long-Term Bite Function & Stability
When jawbones are appropriately aligned, the bite becomes more functional and efficient. Surgical orthodontics provides long-term stability by addressing structural issues at their source.
Patients often report noticeable differences in chewing and speaking comfortably — results that tend to last for years beyond treatment.
2. Improved Facial Harmony & Aesthetics
Because our jawbones play a significant role in determining our facial appearance, correcting their position may profoundly impact on our overall look.
Patients with imbalanced or asymmetrical features often see enhanced facial harmony after surgery. This process extends beyond aesthetics to help you achieve better facial proportions, allowing you to feel more like yourself.
3. Enhanced Breathing & Airway Health
For patients with narrow airways or recessed jaws, surgical orthodontics can dramatically improve airflow.
By adjusting the jaw structure, we can open up the airway and alleviate issues such as snoring or sleep apnea. This improvement can lead to better sleep, increased energy, and a general boost in overall well-being.
4. Reduced Pain from TMJ or Jaw Stress
Chronic jaw pain caused by misaligned joints can be frustrating and debilitating. Surgical orthodontics aligns the jaw properly, which reduces stress on the temporomandibular joints (TMJ).
As a result, many patients experience significant relief from pain, tension, and even headaches.
5. Increased Confidence and Quality of Life
Surgical orthodontics changes how you feel about your smile. Patients who once felt self-conscious about their jawline or facial profile often gain newfound confidence.
With improved jaw function and facial aesthetics, you may find it easier to speak, eat, and engage socially without discomfort or hesitation.
When to Consider a Surgical Evaluation
If you’re unsure whether surgical orthodontics is right for you, there are a few telltale signs that it might be time to consider an evaluation. You may benefit from a surgical assessment if you:
- Have difficulty chewing, biting, or speaking due to jaw alignment
- Experience chronic jaw pain, tension, or frequent headaches
- Notice visible facial asymmetry or an imbalanced jawline
- Have been diagnosed with sleep apnea or airway obstruction
- Have undergone orthodontic treatment in the past with limited results
The earlier you meet with an orthodontic team experienced in surgical cases, the sooner you can get clarity on your options and feel confident about your next step.
Is Surgical Orthodontics Safe?
When performed by experienced professionals, surgical orthodontics is considered both safe and predictable.
At Orthobar, we go beyond standard care by leveraging advanced technologies and collaborating with top oral surgeons in Las Vegas to ensure the safest process possible.
Here’s what sets our approach apart:
- Advanced 3D Imaging
- Digital Surgical Planning
- Experienced Surgical Partnership
- Comprehensive Patient Education
With meticulous planning and expert collaboration, we ensure that surgical orthodontics is a secure and informed choice for eligible patients.
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you’re considering surgical orthodontics, we’re here to help. At Orthobar, our team takes the time to understand your desires and design treatment plans that align with your lifestyle.
Schedule your consultation today to discover if surgical orthodontics is the right path to achieving lasting results.
