Surgical teeth straightening, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a comprehensive and transformative solution for individuals with significant jaw misalignments. This extensive process aims to address problems with the upper and lower jaw's alignment, improving speech, bite function, and general dental health. If traditional methods like braces or aligners have not sufficiently addressed severe cases of crooked, crowded, or misaligned teeth, surgical options might be the next step toward achieving a perfectly aligned smile.
In this blog, we'll explore the details of surgical teeth straightening, the various surgical procedures involved, their benefits and drawbacks, associated costs, the recovery process, and potential results.
Orthognathic surgery, another name for surgical teeth straightening, is a specialist process used to realign the jawbones in a more ideal position in order to correct severe malocclusion. Your orthodontist might suggest this surgery if your bite issues stem from significantly misaligned jaws. This surgical approach can address functional problems like difficulty speaking and chewing, which can significantly affect your overall health and quality of life.
It’s important to note that undergoing orthognathic surgery doesn't eliminate the need for traditional braces or aligner therapy. In most cases, these treatments are still necessary to finalize the alignment of your teeth and achieve a beautifully restored smile.
Determining if you're a suitable candidate for surgical teeth straightening involves a thorough assessment by a skilled orthodontist and oral surgeon. This advanced procedure is typically recommended for individuals who have specific dental and jaw alignment issues that cannot be fully addressed with traditional orthodontics alone.
You may be a candidate for surgical teeth straightening if you meet any of the following criteria:
About 15% of individuals who wear braces for jaw-related corrections eventually undergo orthognathic surgery. The procedure is also commonly used to address craniofacial conditions that cause jaw imbalances, such as cleft palate, cleft lip, syndromic craniosynostosis, Miller syndrome, Treacher-Collins syndrome, and hemifacial microsomia.
If you experience chronic jaw pain, difficulty chewing or biting, or have been diagnosed with severe jaw misalignment or sleep apnea, a detailed evaluation by a professional can help determine if surgical teeth straightening is the right option for you.
Aligning the teeth and jaw through surgical intervention is a complex process that generally spans two to three years. This timeline includes preparation, consultations with specialists, and the implementation of a tailored treatment plan. The treatment plan often involves one of several types of jaw surgeries designed to correct specific alignment issues. Here’s an overview of the different types of surgical teeth straightening procedures and what they address:
Upper jaw orthognathic surgery is a procedure that reshapes the maxilla (upper jaw) through an incision made inside the mouth, realigning it to better match the lower jaw and teeth. This surgery addresses a range of issues, including an overbite (where the upper teeth significantly overlap the lower teeth), overjet (excessive horizontal distance between the upper and lower incisors, leading to a protruding upper jaw), crossbite (where some upper teeth fall inside the lower teeth during biting), and open bite (a condition where the front teeth fail to meet, leaving an open space when the mouth is closed, impacting speech and chewing).
The goal of a bilateral sagittal split osteotomy is to move the lower jaw forward and realign the mandible. This technique uses plates and screws to secure the jaw in its new position, providing stability and proper alignment. It is particularly effective for treating cases where the lower jaw is underdeveloped or too small, enhancing both functional performance and facial appearance.
Intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy is a surgical procedure designed to adjust the size or position of the lower jaw, either by reducing its size or shifting it backward. Conducted through incisions made inside the mouth, this technique allows for precise modifications to the jaw’s alignment. It is particularly effective for addressing an overly large or protruding lower jaw, which can result in an imbalanced facial profile and bite problems.
Chin genioplasty is a surgical procedure designed to reshape the chin, addressing concerns of protrusion or recession. Performed through an incision inside the mouth, this technique allows for precise adjustments to the chin's position and contour. The process is perfect for addressing a depressed chin, which affects the overall aesthetic balance of the face, or a protruding chin, which stretches too far forward and disturbs facial harmony.
Dental surgery may be required if braces or teeth straighteners alone are insufficient to achieve the desired results. Some patients opt for surgery to avoid extended use of braces or to shorten the overall treatment time.
In easier cases, the affected area may be numbed with a local anesthetic administered by the dentist during the treatment. In order to properly align the teeth, this requires moving the gums and bone structure.
For more complex cases, a more intensive procedure known as orthognathic surgery might be necessary. This surgery, performed under general anesthesia, involves a hospital stay and focuses on correcting significant jaw misalignments and repositioning teeth that braces alone cannot address. Orthognathic surgery is more invasive and typically requires a longer recovery period.
During your recovery from surgical teeth straightening, your diet will need to change to accommodate your healing mouth and jaw. Eating solid foods too soon can impede your recovery and cause discomfort. You may properly manage your diet by being aware of the common stages of dietary adjustments. Your physician will provide you personalized advice based on your particular healing process.
In the initial days following your surgery, your mouth needs to remain undisturbed, which means you’ll need to stick to a liquid diet. This allows your surgical sites to heal without the added stress of chewing. Here are some recommended foods and beverages for this phase:
As your mouth begins to heal and you gain the ability to open and close your jaws more comfortably, your diet can gradually include soft foods. Always follow your doctor's advice on when it’s appropriate to transition to this stage. Foods you can try include:
By complying with these nutritional recommendations, you can facilitate a seamless healing process. For tailored guidance and changes based on your healing process, always speak with your healthcare practitioner.
Surgical teeth straightening is a powerful tool in the field of orthodontics, offering a solution for complex dental and jaw alignment issues. By addressing both dental and skeletal problems, this procedure can provide life-changing results for patients who have not found success with traditional orthodontic treatments. If you’re considering surgical teeth straightening, consult with the experts at Invisalign Toronto to explore your options and determine the best path to achieving a healthier, more beautiful smile.
Get in touch with us right now to arrange a consultation or for further information. Our committed staff is here to help you at every stage of your orthodontic journey and guarantee that you get the best possible treatment and knowledge.
Call (647) 931-2983 or visit our clinic at 350 Front Street West Toronto, ON.
Braces are frequently the most frequently suggested treatment when it comes to straightening teeth. They generally consist of four main components: brackets, bonding material, arch wire, and ligature elastics. Each part plays a crucial role in the process. The brackets are attached to the teeth, the bonding material holds them in place, the archwire connects the brackets, and the ligature elastics secure the wire. Together, these elements apply controlled pressure to the teeth, gradually guiding them into their correct alignment over time.
Some teeth are more challenging to move than others. Identifying these teeth and understanding the factors influencing their movement can provide insights into their specific needs. Generally, lateral incisors and molars are the most difficult to shift.
Recent research has revealed that the application of constant force through braces can lead to root damage in nearly all patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. This process can cause some degree of root resorption, where the roots of the teeth are gradually dissolved. Over time, this can increase the risk of tooth loss.
