Surgical orthodontics in La Jolla
When the alignment of the teeth and jaws requires more than orthodontics alone, surgical orthodontics offers a highly coordinated approach to care. Dr. Upatham and Dr. Wong work closely with trusted oral and maxillofacial surgeons to plan every stage with precision, from initial alignment through your final result.
What is surgical orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic or corrective jaw surgery, combines orthodontic treatment with oral surgery to address significant differences in the position of the upper and lower jaws. When braces or clear aligners alone cannot create proper alignment, surgery may be recommended to improve the way the jaws and teeth come together. Treatment can address concerns related to chewing, bite function, jaw comfort, tooth wear, and facial balance.
At La Jolla Village Orthodontics, surgical treatment is considered carefully and recommended only when it offers a meaningful clinical benefit. Dr. Upatham and Dr. Wong collaborate closely with your oral surgeon throughout the process, creating a coordinated treatment plan designed around your individual anatomy, needs, and long-term health.
The benefits of surgical orthodontics
For the right patient, correcting the relationship between the teeth and jaws can create meaningful improvements in both function and overall balance.
Improved bite and function
Correcting significant jaw discrepancies can allow the upper and lower teeth to meet more naturally, supporting comfortable chewing and healthier function.
Greater long-term stability
Addressing the underlying skeletal relationship, rather than tooth position alone, can create a stronger foundation for stable orthodontic results.
Enhanced facial balance
Thoughtful repositioning of the jaws can create greater harmony between the teeth, jaws, and facial profile while prioritizing a natural, balanced result.
Conditions that may require surgical orthodontics
Severe overbite or underbite
When a significant overbite or underbite is caused by the position of the jaws rather than the teeth alone, orthodontic treatment may not be enough to fully correct it. Surgery can reposition the jaws while orthodontics carefully aligns the teeth before and after the procedure.
Open bite
An open bite occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not meet properly when the mouth is closed. When the cause is primarily skeletal, corrective jaw surgery may be recommended to improve function and create a more stable bite.
Facial asymmetry or jaw discrepancy
Differences in jaw growth can create noticeable asymmetry or imbalance. In select cases, surgical orthodontics allows the jaws to be repositioned for improved function, symmetry, and overall facial harmony.
The surgical orthodontics process
Orthodontic preparation
Treatment typically begins with braces or clear aligners to carefully position the teeth in preparation for surgery. Dr. Upatham or Dr. Wong will coordinate your orthodontic plan with your oral surgeon so each stage supports the next.
Corrective jaw surgery
Your oral and maxillofacial surgeon performs the procedure to reposition the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both based on your treatment plan. Throughout this process, your orthodontic and surgical teams work closely together to maintain continuity of care.
Final alignment and stabilization
Once your jaw has healed sufficiently, orthodontic treatment continues to carefully refine your bite and tooth alignment. This final stage is focused on creating the balance, function, and stability planned from the beginning.
Frequently asked questions
FAQ
Surgical treatment is generally considered when a significant skeletal discrepancy cannot be predictably corrected with orthodontics alone. Dr. Upatham or Dr. Wong will carefully evaluate your bite, jaw relationship, and overall treatment needs, then coordinate any additional diagnostic records or surgical consultation when appropriate.
Corrective jaw surgery is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Your orthodontist manages the orthodontic portions of treatment and works collaboratively with your surgeon to coordinate the position of the teeth and jaws throughout the process.
The timeline varies considerably based on the complexity of your case, the amount of orthodontic preparation required, your surgical plan, and healing. Your orthodontist and oral surgeon will provide a personalized timeline once your treatment needs have been fully evaluated.
Still Have Questions?
Call us for more information or to schedule an appointment.