Surgical Orthodontics in Colorado Springs, CO
Welcome to Powers Dental Group.
William F.
What Involves in Surgical Orthodontic Procedure?
Surgical orthodontics involves a team approach, with an orthodontist and oral and maxillofacial surgeons working together to plan and carry out the treatment. Our orthodontic treatment usually involves braces or clear aligners to straighten the teeth and prepare them for surgery.
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and involves repositioning the jaws to correct the skeletal discrepancy. Our surgeon may use cutting, repositioning, and grafting techniques to achieve the desired result. After the surgery, the patient usually needs to wear elastics and continue with orthodontic treatment to fine-tune the bite.
How is the Recovery from Surgical Orthodontic Treatment?
Visit Our Office for Inexpensive and Safe Surgical Orthodontics
Surgical orthodontics can significantly improve dental function and facial aesthetics for patients with severe jaw discrepancies. However, it is a complex and invasive treatment that requires careful planning and coordination between the orthodontist and surgeon. Avoid making mistakes and consult certified dental surgeons at Powers Dental Group to create a treatment plan. Contact Us and fix an appointment today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is surgical orthodontics and how does it differ from traditional orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics combines conventional orthodontic treatment with corrective jaw surgery to address complex bite and jaw alignment problems that traditional braces or aligners alone cannot fix. While traditional orthodontics focuses on moving teeth into better positions, surgical orthodontics reshapes the underlying bone structure to correct severe overbites, underbites, open bites, or asymmetry. The approach involves close collaboration between an orthodontist and an oral/maxillofacial surgeon. Orthodontic appliances position the teeth before and after surgery, while the surgical phase adjusts the jawbones to improve function, balance, and facial harmony.
Who might need surgical orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics is typically recommended for patients with significant skeletal discrepancies or jaw irregularities that cannot be resolved with braces or aligners alone. Examples include severe overbite or underbite, crossbite coupled with jaw misalignment, open bite, or facial asymmetry. It may also be used when jaw growth abnormalities cause functional issues with chewing, speaking, or breathing. A comprehensive evaluation, including clinical examination and imaging, helps determine whether surgical orthodontics is appropriate based on skeletal structure, dental condition, and overall oral health goals.
What are the benefits of surgical orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics offers both functional and aesthetic benefits. Functionally, it corrects bite issues that can cause joint pain, uneven tooth wear, difficulty chewing, and speech problems. Proper alignment of jaws reduces strain on muscles and joints, potentially relieving symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Aesthetically, the procedure can enhance facial balance and proportions, improving self‑confidence. By addressing underlying skeletal issues rather than only moving teeth, surgical orthodontics provides long‑lasting results that support oral health, comfort, and quality of life.
How is the surgical orthodontics process structured?
The surgical orthodontics process typically begins with a comprehensive evaluation, including digital imaging and orthodontic planning. Orthodontic appliances (braces or aligners) are often placed first to align teeth in preparation for surgery. Once teeth are positioned correctly, the surgical phase is performed by an oral surgeon to reposition the upper and/or lower jawbones. After surgery, orthodontic treatment continues to refine alignment and ensure optimal bite. Follow‑up visits monitor healing and progress. The entire process can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months, depending on individual needs and severity of correction.
Is surgical orthodontics painful?
Patients are kept comfortable during surgical orthodontics with anesthesia and sedation options appropriate for their needs. During the surgical procedure itself, you won’t feel pain because the area is fully anesthetized. After surgery, some swelling, discomfort, and soreness are normal as tissues heal. These sensations are usually manageable with prescribed or over‑the‑counter pain relief and proper aftercare instructions. Most patients find that discomfort decreases significantly within the first week of recovery, and the long‑term benefits of improved function and comfort outweigh the temporary healing symptoms.
What is recovery like after surgical orthodontics?
Recovery varies based on the extent of surgery, but the first week typically involves rest, swelling management, and a soft or liquid diet. Your surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions to support healing and minimize complications. Follow‑up visits help monitor progress, adjust orthodontic appliances as needed, and guide your return to regular activities. Full recovery can take several weeks, though many patients resume normal daily routines within a few days. Patience and adherence to care instructions contribute to a smoother healing experience and successful treatment outcome.
Will insurance cover surgical orthodontics?
Coverage for surgical orthodontics varies widely based on your dental and medical insurance plans. Because surgical orthodontics often addresses functional issues — such as bite problems, difficulty chewing, or jaw pain — some medical plans may cover a portion of the surgical portion of treatment. Orthodontic coverage may be separate and depend on dental benefits, age limits, and lifetime maximums. It’s a good idea to verify benefits ahead of time by contacting your insurance provider. The dental office’s insurance coordinator can also help explain expected coverage and out‑of‑pocket costs for your specific policy.
How do I know if I’m a candidate for surgical orthodontics?
A comprehensive evaluation by an orthodontist and, when necessary, an oral surgeon is the best way to determine candidacy for surgical orthodontics. This typically includes clinical examination, dental X‑rays, 3D imaging, and discussion of symptoms like difficulty chewing, jaw pain, or noticeable bite issues. Patients with significant skeletal misalignment or bite problems that cannot be corrected with orthodontics alone are potential candidates. Your care team will explain treatment options, expected outcomes, and timelines so you can make an informed decision based on your dental goals and overall oral health.
What are the risks and complications of surgical orthodontics?
As with any surgery, there are potential risks such as infection, swelling, bleeding, nerve irritation, or delayed healing. Surgical planning and imaging help minimize these risks, and your surgeon will review your medical history to tailor care and ensure safety. Following aftercare instructions closely and attending all follow‑up appointments further reduces the chance of complications. Most side effects are temporary and resolve as tissues heal. Your care team will explain risk factors, symptoms to watch for, and how to manage concerns throughout recovery.
How does surgical orthodontics affect daily life during treatment?
During surgical orthodontics, patients may experience temporary lifestyle adjustments such as a soft diet during early recovery, regular dental appointments, and periods of facial swelling immediately after surgery. Routine oral hygiene and appliance care remain important throughout treatment. Many patients balance work, school, or daily routines with clear expectations and support from their care team. Over time, improved bite function and facial balance enhance comfort in eating, speaking, and overall confidence. Clear communication with your orthodontist and oral surgeon helps ensure a positive, manageable experience throughout the process.