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Orthodontic treatment is most often associated with braces or Invisalign — appliances that gradually shift teeth into better alignment. For most patients, these treatments are enough to create a healthy, functional smile. However, in some cases, orthodontic problems go beyond what braces alone can correct.
That’s where surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, comes in. Surgical orthodontics addresses severe jaw and bite issues that can’t be corrected with braces alone. Understanding how surgical orthodontics differs from regular orthodontic treatment can help patients know what to expect and whether it may be recommended for their needs.
What Is Regular Orthodontic Treatment?
Regular orthodontics focuses on straightening teeth and correcting bite alignment using appliances such as:
- Braces — Metal, ceramic, or lingual braces that gradually move teeth into the right position.
- Invisalign — Clear aligners that straighten teeth with a series of removable trays.
- Orthodontic appliances — Devices such as expanders or retainers that guide jaw growth or maintain alignment.
This type of treatment works for a wide range of cases, from mild crowding to more complex bite problems. Most patients can achieve excellent results with braces or aligners alone.
What Is Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics is recommended for patients whose jaw structure makes it impossible to achieve proper alignment with orthodontic appliances alone. It involves combining braces with jaw surgery performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Surgery corrects skeletal issues in the jaw, while braces align the teeth to fit properly after the correction.
When Surgical Orthodontics Is Needed
Surgical orthodontics is not common, but it is sometimes the best solution for severe cases such as:
- Severe overbite or underbite — When the upper or lower jaw protrudes significantly.
- Open bite — When the front teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed.
- Jaw asymmetry — Noticeable differences in jaw size or shape that affect function and appearance.
- Facial imbalances — Jaw problems that affect the overall profile or symmetry of the face.
- Difficulty chewing or speaking — Caused by severe misalignment that braces alone can’t correct.
Key Differences Between Surgical and Regular Orthodontics
The main difference between surgical orthodontics and traditional orthodontics lies in what’s being corrected. Regular orthodontics moves the teeth, while surgical orthodontics corrects both the teeth and the underlying jaw structure.
Here’s a closer comparison:
- Complexity — Regular orthodontics addresses tooth alignment and mild bite issues. Surgical orthodontics is reserved for severe jaw irregularities.
- Treatment team — Regular orthodontics is managed by an orthodontist, while surgical cases involve both an orthodontist and an oral surgeon.
- Timeline — Surgical orthodontics often takes longer, with braces worn before and after surgery.
- Recovery — Surgery involves a healing period, while regular orthodontics does not require downtime.
- Age — Surgical orthodontics is typically only recommended for adults or older teens, once the jaw has finished growing.
What to Expect with Surgical Orthodontics
The process for surgical orthodontics involves several stages:
- Evaluation and planning — The orthodontist and oral surgeon collaborate using X-rays, scans, and models to plan treatment.
- Pre-surgical orthodontics — Braces are worn for 12–18 months before surgery to align teeth in preparation.
- Surgery — The oral surgeon repositions the jaw under general anesthesia. Surgery typically lasts several hours.
- Recovery — Patients usually need a few weeks to recover, with initial swelling and a soft-food diet.
- Post-surgical orthodontics — Braces continue for several months to fine-tune alignment.
- Retention — Once treatment is complete, retainers are used to maintain results.
Benefits of Surgical Orthodontics
Though more complex, surgical orthodontics offers significant advantages for those who need it:
- Improved function — Corrects difficulties with chewing, biting, or speaking.
- Enhanced appearance — Balances facial structure and profile.
- Better oral health — Aligns jaws and teeth to reduce strain and wear.
- Long-lasting results — Provides permanent correction for severe skeletal issues.
Risks and Considerations
Like any surgery, there are considerations patients should weigh:
- Surgical risks — As with any procedure, there are risks associated with anesthesia and healing.
- Recovery time — Healing requires patience and temporary lifestyle adjustments.
- Cost — Surgical orthodontics is more expensive than traditional orthodontics and may involve additional insurance considerations.
- Commitment — Treatment requires a longer timeline, with braces before and after surgery.
Final Thoughts on Surgical vs. Regular Orthodontics
For most patients, braces or Invisalign are all that’s needed to achieve a healthy, confident smile. But for those with severe jaw discrepancies, surgical orthodontics may be the best solution to restore both function and appearance.
Surgical Orthodontics in Athens, AL
If you’ve been told your orthodontic concerns may require surgery, it’s important to work with an experienced team. At Gibson Orthodontics in Athens, AL, our doctors collaborate with oral surgeons to provide advanced treatment for patients who need surgical orthodontics, as well as traditional braces and Invisalign for those who don’t. We’re here to guide patients every step of the way, from evaluation through recovery, ensuring both comfort and excellent results.
Schedule a consultation today at our Athens office to learn whether surgical orthodontics or regular orthodontic treatment is right for you.
