Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a type of orthodontic treatment that combines braces with jaw surgery. It corrects the dental and skeletal discrepancies between the upper and lower jaws. Dr. Crump will work with a skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeon to ensure that if you need surgical orthodontics, you receive the best care possible.

When might surgical orthodontics be needed?

Surgical orthodontics may be recommended for the correction of severe bite problems that cannot be successfully treated with braces alone. 

Surgical orthodontics may be used to treat people with improper bites (malocclusions) or other esthetic concerns.  In some types of surgical orthodontics, the jaws must be finished growing (15-20 years of age) before starting treatment. The need for surgical orthodontics occurs when the jaws do not line up correctly, and a proper bite cannot be achieved with orthodontic treatment alone. This type of combined treatment will properly align the upper and lower jaws, and the braces will move the teeth into their proper positions.

How do I know if I need orthognathic surgery?

The need for surgical orthodontics occurs when the jaws do not line up correctly and a proper bite cannot be achieved with braces alone.

Dr. Crump has extensive experience and the expertise to determine if orthognathic surgery is needed as part of your treatment. Depending on the severity of your case and the alignment of your jaw, you may or may not need surgery.

For seven years, Dr. Crump served as Clinical Professor at St. Louis University Orthodontic Department, where he was in charge of those patients requiring a combination of orthodontic treatment and jaw surgery to produce a normal, functional bite with gratifying, cosmetic results.

If you would like more information about surgical orthodontics for yourself or a family member, please contact our office to schedule a complimentary initial appointment with Dr. Crump.

How does orthognathic surgery work?

• After your teeth are positioned correctly with braces, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon will perform your jaw surgery.
• The pre-surgical orthodontics can take 6-18 months (depending on the severity of an individual's problem) to move the teeth into their proper positions in preparation for the surgery. This phase of treatment is important since it will ensure that your teeth will fit together properly when the jaw surgery is done.
• The surgery will be done in a hospital by a skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Your braces remain on your teeth during the surgery. The surgery will be scheduled so that it does not interfere with school or work.
• Orthognathic surgery can take from 45 minutes to three hours, depending on the severity of the case.
• No active orthodontic treatment is done for about 6 weeks following surgery.
• Once the 6 week healing period is complete, Dr. Crump resumes your orthodontic treatment, fine-tuning your bite with adjustments to your braces and elastic wear. In most cases, your braces are removed within 6-12 months following surgery.
•  After your braces are removed, you will wear a retainer to help maintain your new bite and smile.

What are the rewards of having surgical orthodontics?

For many patients, the most important reward of having surgical orthodontics is achieving a healthy bite and a beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime. Whether you need surgical orthodontic treatment to correct a bad bite (malocclusion),  a jaw abnormality, or to resolve joint (TMJ) abnormalities, this type of combined treatment can correct your bite and leave you smiling with confidence for many years to come.

Back to top