When jaw misalignment is severe, orthognathic surgery — also called corrective jaw surgery — may be the better choice for achieving optimal function and aesthetics.
At Advanced Orthodontic Care in Denver, Dr. Robert Rudman and Dr. Jeff Birg are highly skilled at assessing and treating a range of alignment issues. With decades of combined training and experience, they provide individualized care and help patients determine whether braces, surgery, or a combination of both is right for their needs.
When Braces Are Enough
Braces are best for mild to moderate cases of misalignment. They gradually shift the teeth into proper positions using brackets and wires. Common situations where braces alone are effective include:
- You have crowded or spaced teeth.
- You have a mild overbite, underbite, or crossbite.
- You have minor jaw position issues.
- You want cosmetic changes and don’t have significant functional problems.
In these cases, braces can produce excellent results in 12–24 months without surgery.
When Orthognathic Surgery Is the Better Option
Orthognathic surgery addresses skeletal discrepancies that braces alone cannot fix. It involves repositioning the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both to improve alignment, bite, and facial balance. Surgery might be recommended when:
- The jaw is significantly misaligned due to genetics or injury.
- Severe overbites, underbites, or crossbites affect chewing or speech.
- Chronic pain or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders are caused by skeletal imbalance.
- Facial symmetry is noticeably affected by jaw position.
- Sleep apnea is linked to jaw structure.
If surgery is needed, patients typically wear braces before and after for fine-tuning. Orthodontic preparation normally lasts 12–18 months.
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon performs the procedure under general anesthesia. Recovery may take several weeks, with final bite adjustments made during post-surgical orthodontic care.
Choosing the Right Path
The decision between braces and orthognathic surgery depends on the severity of the jaw misalignment and your overall goals. A comprehensive evaluation, including X-rays and bite analysis, is essential to effective treatment planning.
Learn More About Your Options Today
Need help deciding between braces and jaw surgery (or a combination approach)? Contact Advanced Orthodontic Care in Denver, CO. Call or text us at 303-331-0222 or schedule a consultation online and discover the best path to a healthy, balanced smile.
