Orthodontics & Jaw Surgery

Why is jaw surgery part of some orthodontic treatment plans?

The “facial form” is part of a complex genetic interaction of teeth and bones. In about 15-20% of the adult patients who seek orthodontic correction, the jaw structure needs to be corrected. Therefore, the combined treatment of orthodontics and orthognathic surgery is required to achieve an ideal bite.

“Before and after “ photos below are patients who were treated by Drs. Musich and Busch.

Lower jaw excess with upper jaw deficiency

• Braces usually precede the jaw surgery by 12 to 18 months to prepare tooth position to match the planned surgical correction of the jaw relationship.

Severe jaw and chin deficiency

• Braces are needed to prepare the teeth for appropriate surgical correction of the jaws
• Braces usually precede the jaw surgery by 12 to 18 months to prepare tooth position to match the planned surgical correction of the jaw relationship.

Asymmetry of the face

• This jaw imbalance may have a genetic or a traumatic etiology—occasionally both factors are present
• Braces usually precede the jaw surgery by 12 to 18 months to prepare tooth position to match the planned surgical correction of the jaw relationship.

Jaw growth with downward rotation of mandible (lower jaw)

• A condition that has both genetic and environmental factors (mouth breathing and trauma can contribute)
• Optimal treatment requires orthodontics and jaw surgery to correct the boney imbalance
• Braces usually precede the jaw surgery by 12 to 18 months to prepare tooth position to match the planned surgical correction of the jaw relationship.