Surgical Orthodontics in Beaverton, OR
For some patients, achieving a healthy and functional bite requires more than braces alone. At Ensley Orthodontics, we partner with skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeons to offer surgical orthodontics, a specialized treatment that combines orthodontic care with corrective jaw surgery.
What is Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is designed to correct severe irregularities of the jaw and face that cannot be resolved with conventional orthodontics. By moving the jaw into proper alignment, we can dramatically improve a patient’s ability to chew, speak, and breathe, while also creating a more balanced and harmonious facial appearance.
This treatment is typically recommended for non-growing adult patients who have significant bite problems or aesthetic concerns related to their jaw structure. Our team works hand-in-hand with your surgeon to ensure a seamless process and a predictable, life-changing outcome.
Conditions Corrected with Jaw Surgery
Surgical orthodontics can effectively address a range of functional and aesthetic issues. If you experience any of the following, you may be a candidate for this transformative treatment.
- Severe Underbite or Overbite: When the lower jaw sits significantly forward or behind the upper jaw.
- Open Bite: A visible gap between the upper and lower front teeth when the back teeth are touching.
- Facial Asymmetry: Imbalance or unevenness in facial features due to jaw misalignment.
- Difficulty Chewing or Biting: Functional problems that make eating uncomfortable or inefficient.
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Breathing problems during sleep caused by poor jaw positioning.
The Surgical Orthodontics Process
The journey to your new smile is a collaborative effort. It involves careful planning and coordination between our orthodontic team and a trusted oral surgeon.
- Pre-Surgical Orthodontics: Treatment typically begins with 12-18 months of braces or clear aligners. This phase aligns the teeth within each arch, preparing them for their ideal position after surgery.
- Corrective Jaw Surgery: Once your teeth are properly positioned, the oral surgeon will perform the procedure to reposition your jaw. This is done in a hospital setting under general anesthesia.
- Post-Surgical Orthodontics: After a period of healing, you will return to our office for the final phase of orthodontic treatment. This stage involves fine-tuning your bite and perfecting the alignment of your teeth, which usually takes about 6-12 months.
Frequently Asked Questions About Surgical Orthodontics
Is jaw surgery painful?
Patients are under general anesthesia during the procedure and will not feel any pain. Post-surgical discomfort is managed with prescribed pain medication and is typically well-controlled. Most patients return to work or school within two to three weeks.
Will I have visible scars?
Most orthognathic surgery is performed from inside the mouth, so there are no visible facial scars. Your surgeon will discuss the specific surgical plan with you in detail.
How do I know if I need surgery?
If your jaw alignment issues are too severe to be corrected with orthodontics alone, our doctors may recommend a surgical consultation. This is most common in adults whose jaw growth is complete. We will discuss all your options during your initial exam.
Are there alternatives to surgery?
In some cases, a compromised or “camouflage” treatment plan may be possible using modern orthodontic techniques. However, for severe skeletal discrepancies, surgery is the only way to achieve an ideal, stable result.
Learn if Surgical Orthodontics is Right for You
If you struggle with significant bite problems or are unhappy with your jaw alignment, we can help. Contact Ensley Orthodontics to schedule a comprehensive consultation at our Beaverton office and discover your options.
