When Is Surgery Needed in Orthodontic Treatment?

Orthodontic treatment is often associated with braces or aligners designed to correct misaligned teeth and improve oral health and aesthetics. However, some dental and facial abnormalities extend beyond the scope of what these devices can achieve alone. In such cases, a more comprehensive treatment plan that includes orthodontic surgery may be necessary to attain optimal results.

Understanding the Limitations of Braces and Aligners

Braces and aligners are effective tools for correcting common orthodontic issues such as crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. They work by gradually shifting teeth into their desired positions over time. Despite their efficacy, there are certain conditions that cannot be fully addressed with these devices alone.

For example, significant skeletal discrepancies, severe jaw misalignment, and certain congenital conditions may require surgical intervention. These issues often involve the underlying bone structure and cannot be corrected solely by moving the teeth. In such cases, orthodontic surgery becomes an essential component of the treatment plan.

The Role of Orthodontic Surgery

Orthodontic surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a specialized procedure performed to correct irregularities in the jaw bones and realign the jaws and teeth. This type of surgery is typically carried out by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in collaboration with an orthodontist. The goal is to improve the patient’s ability to chew, speak, and breathe, as well as to enhance facial aesthetics.

Common Conditions Requiring Orthodontic Surgery

When the upper and lower jaws do not align properly, it can lead to functional issues such as difficulty chewing, speaking, and breathing. Orthodontic surgery can reposition the jaws to achieve a proper bite and alignment. Conditions like a receding chin, prominent jaw, or facial asymmetry can affect both function and appearance. Surgical intervention can correct these imbalances and create a more harmonious facial structure.

The Coordinated Treatment Plan

Achieving the best potential outcome for patients requiring orthodontic surgery involves a coordinated treatment plan between the orthodontist and the maxillofacial surgeon. This collaboration ensures that both the dental and skeletal aspects of the condition are addressed.

• Initial Consultation: The orthodontist conducts a thorough examination and identifies the need for surgical intervention. Diagnostic tools such as X-rays, CT scans, and dental impressions are used to plan the treatment.
• Pre-Surgical Orthodontics: Braces or aligners are often used to align the teeth in preparation for surgery. This phase can last several months to ensure the teeth are in the correct positions before surgical correction.
• Surgical Procedure: The maxillofacial surgeon performs the orthognathic surgery to correct the jaw alignment. This may involve repositioning the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both, depending on the patient’s specific needs.
• Post-Surgical Orthodontics: After surgery, the orthodontist continues to fine-tune the alignment of the teeth. This phase ensures that the teeth fit perfectly within the newly aligned jaw structure.
• Recovery and Follow-Up: Recovery from orthognathic surgery involves a period of healing and adjustment. Regular follow-up visits with both the orthodontist and surgeon are crucial to monitor progress and ensure the success of the treatment.

While braces and aligners are powerful tools in the field of orthodontics, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. For certain complex dental and facial abnormalities, orthodontic surgery is an essential component of the treatment plan. The collaboration between an orthodontist and a maxillofacial surgeon ensures that patients receive comprehensive care, addressing both dental and skeletal issues to achieve the best possible outcomes. At Broad Street Braces in Philadelphia, PA, we are committed to providing our patients with tailored treatment plans that encompass all aspects of their orthodontic needs, ensuring a healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing smile.