About Jaw Surgery
Jaw Discrepancy
In patients who have a skeletal discrepancy in which their jaws are not well aligned, it may be beneficial to consider treatment with a combination of orthodontics and jaw surgery. This treatment approach includes full braces together with orthognathic surgery (jaw surgery) performed by an oral surgeon.
Changes in Facial Profile
Not only are the goals of better occlusion (fit of the teeth) and function achieved, movement of the jaws can also bring about desirable changes in facial profile. By moving the jaws to their ideal position, the lips, nose, chin, and upper and lower jaws can achieve better harmony.
Growth Maturity
Sometimes skeletal imbalances are identified in younger patients and the decision may be made to wait until growth is complete to treat the underlying issue which involves more than just teeth.
Working with the Oral Surgeon
Jaw surgery allows the orthodontist to work closely with the oral surgeon to move the jaws into their ideal position and facilitate facial balance rather than simply moving teeth with braces alone.
