Orthognathic Surgery

The Harmony of Function and Aesthetics: Orthognathic Surgery

Sometimes, achieving a perfect facial balance and flawless function requires more than just moving the teeth. When the cause of disharmony lies in the position or size of the jaws themselves, orthognathic surgery comes to the rescue. This is the pinnacle of collaboration between an orthodontist and a maxillofacial surgeon, enabling dramatic and stable changes.

When is orthognathic surgery necessary?

This combined treatment is indicated for significant skeletal anomalies that cannot be compensated for with orthodontics alone. These include:

• Significant discrepancies in jaw sizes (e.g., a very small lower or upper jaw).

• Pronounced facial and chin asymmetry.

• An open bite, where the front teeth do not meet at all.

• Serious functional problems related to chewing, speech, or even breathing (e.g., sleep apnea).

What does the combined treatment involve?

This is a clearly planned process consisting of three main stages:

1. Pre-Surgical Orthodontics: My task is to prepare the dental arches for surgery. Using braces, I align the teeth so that they will fit together perfectly after the jaws are moved.

2. Surgical Stage: A maxillofacial surgeon performs the operation, repositioning one or both jaws to the new, planned position.

3. Post-Surgical Orthodontics: After healing, I perform the final "fine-tuning" of the bite with braces, perfecting the contacts.

What is the orthodontist's role in this process?

My role is to be the architect of the entire project. I conduct a full diagnosis, create a digital plan for the final result, and prepare the dental arches. I work closely with the surgeon during the surgery planning phase and am fully responsible for the final result—the perfect bite after the surgeon has created the correct "foundation."