In some cases, when other orthodontic treatment methods have been ruled out as viable options, surgery is necessary. We know how daunting that can sound, and we are here for you. Our orthodontic team can diagnose your case, build a treatment plan and help you find the right oral surgeon. We work with your oral surgery team throughout the entire process, and we are with you through every step.
If you have been referred for orthodontic surgery, reach out to us. We will answer your questions and arrange a consultation at our Brooklyn office so we can guide you through your next steps.
What is surgical orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics — also called orthognathic treatment — combines orthodontic care with corrective jaw surgery performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Braces and aligners are excellent at moving teeth, but when the underlying jaw position is the source of the problem, tooth movement alone cannot fully correct the bite. In those cases, orthodontics and surgery work together: orthodontic treatment aligns the teeth, and surgery brings the jaws into their proper relationship.
The American Association of Orthodontists recognizes orthognathic treatment as the standard of care for significant jaw discrepancies that cannot be resolved with orthodontics alone.
When is surgery considered?
Most orthodontic patients never need surgery. It is typically considered only when the jaws themselves are significantly misaligned, which may show up as:
- A pronounced underbite, overbite or open bite that braces alone cannot close
- Difficulty biting, chewing or speaking related to jaw position
- Facial asymmetry or jaw-joint strain connected to how the jaws meet
- A bite relationship that has stopped responding to conventional treatment
Because jaw surgery is generally performed after growth is complete, it is most often part of adult treatment plans — one more reason a thorough evaluation matters before deciding on any treatment path. For children whose jaws are still growing, early treatment can sometimes head the problem off.
Who plans your case
Both of our orthodontists are board certified. Your orthodontist diagnoses and plans the orthodontic side of a surgical case and coordinates directly with your oral surgery team from start to finish — records, digital iTero scans and planning are shared throughout, so nothing falls between the two offices.
Request a call back or call (212) 966-9628. Let’s start your journey together.