Are you considering getting braces to achieve the perfect smile? Did you know that surgical orthodontics can also play a role in achieving your dream grin? Surgical orthodontics is a specialized field of dentistry that combines traditional orthodontic treatment with corrective jaw surgery. By addressing not only the alignment of teeth but also correcting underlying jaw issues, patients can see significant improvements in their overall oral health and appearance.
What Is Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a specialized area of dentistry that combines traditional orthodontic treatment with corrective jaw surgery. This type of treatment is typically reserved for patients who have severe jaw misalignments or abnormalities that cannot be corrected with braces alone.
The procedure involves realigning the jaws to improve the overall function and appearance of the mouth. Before any surgical intervention takes place, your dental team will work together to create a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses all aspects of your oral health.
During the actual surgery, incisions are made in the gums to allow access to the bones in need of correction. The bones are then repositioned using small screws and plates designed specifically for this procedure. Following surgery, patients must adhere to strict dietary restrictions while their jaws heal.
Surgical orthodontics can provide significant improvements not only in alignment but also in facial symmetry and overall confidence levels for those undergoing treatment.
What Is The Connection Between Surgical Orthodontics And Braces?
Braces and surgical orthodontics are both dental treatments that help realign teeth. However, braces alone may not correct severe jaw misalignments or skeletal discrepancies. This is where surgical orthodontics comes in.
Surgical orthodontics involves the use of surgery to align the jaws and improve a person’s bite. Braces are typically used alongside this treatment to straighten the teeth once the jaw alignment has been corrected.
The process of surgical orthodontics begins with a consultation with an oral surgeon who will assess whether surgery is necessary for proper alignment. If deemed necessary, they will work closely with an orthodontist to develop a customized treatment plan.
During surgery, the surgeon will make incisions in the jawbone and reposition it into its optimal position. The jawbone is then secured using plates, screws or wires while it heals over time.
After recovery from surgery, braces are usually required for several months to move teeth into their new positions within the newly aligned jaws.
Combining braces with surgical orthodontics can produce significant improvements in both appearance and function of one’s smile by addressing both skeletal and dental irregularities simultaneously.
How Can Surgical Orthodontics Help People With Braces?
Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, can help people who have braces to achieve a more balanced facial appearance and improve their bite. This type of treatment is usually recommended for patients with severe skeletal discrepancies that cannot be corrected through traditional orthodontic methods alone.
The procedure involves making cuts in the jawbone and repositioning it to align with the teeth properly. Orthognathic surgery can effectively correct problems such as overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites that are caused by an underlying skeletal issue.
While braces alone can address issues related to tooth positioning, surgical orthodontics tackles the root cause of misaligned jaws. By working together with braces or other orthodontic treatments, surgical procedures help ensure long-term stability and proper alignment of teeth.
After undergoing surgical orthodontics procedure along with braces treatment, patients may experience significant improvements in speaking ability while eating food will become easier than before. They would feel comfortable smiling confidently without worrying about their dental appearance anymore.
The Bottom Line
Surgical orthodontics can be a game-changer for individuals who require braces to correct their teeth and jaw alignment. With the help of surgical procedures, it is possible to fix severe skeletal problems that cannot be solved through traditional braces treatment. While it may seem daunting to undergo surgery in conjunction with wearing braces, the benefits are often worth it in terms of improved oral health and an attractive smile.
It’s essential to consult with your orthodontist or dentist if you’re considering surgical orthodontics as an option. They will evaluate your case and provide you with the best treatment options that suit your unique needs.
Remember, dental health is crucial for overall well-being and confidence. Therefore, investing time and effort into finding solutions like surgical orthodontics can have life-changing impacts on one’s quality of life.