Surgical Orthodontics in Richmond

What is Surgical Orthodontics?

Surgical orthodontics combines orthodontic treatment with jaw surgery to fix severe misalignments of the teeth and jaws. While braces or Invisalign move the teeth into alignment, orthognathic surgery repositions the jaw to improve both function and facial aesthetics. This treatment is often recommended for adults who have completed jaw growth, allowing for more precise and permanent corrections.

What Conditions Does Surgical Orthodontics Treat?

Surgical orthodontics is used to correct a variety of dental and jaw issues, including:

• Severe Overbites or Underbites: Misalignment where the upper or lower jaw extends too far forward or backward.

• Jaw Misalignment: Correcting asymmetrical jaws or crossbites for better function and appearance.

• Facial Imbalance: Addressing jaw irregularities to enhance facial symmetry and aesthetics.

• Open Bites: When the upper and lower teeth don’t close properly.

• Difficulty Chewing or Speaking: Caused by improper bite alignment.

• Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Jaw misalignment causing airway obstruction and sleep-related issues.

Exposing and Ligating Impacted Teeth

Surgical orthodontics can also address impacted teeth, which are teeth that have not erupted properly and are stuck beneath the gumline. This is particularly common with impacted canines, which play a critical role in your smile and bite.

The process of exposing and ligating impacted teeth involves a minor surgical procedure where the gum is lifted to expose the tooth. A small bracket and chain are then attached to the tooth, which is guided into place using braces over time. This ensures that impacted teeth are properly aligned and integrated into your smile.

The Benefits of Surgical Orthodontics

Choosing surgical orthodontics offers a range of benefits for patients in Richmond, Mechanicsville, and Glen Allen:

• Improved Functionality: Corrects bite issues, making it easier to chew, speak, and breathe properly.

• Enhanced Facial Aesthetics: Aligning the jaws improves facial symmetry and balance, giving you a more attractive appearance.

• Long-Term Oral Health: Reduces the risk of tooth wear, gum disease, and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders.

• Better Sleep Quality: In cases of obstructive sleep apnea, correcting the jaw alignment can significantly improve sleep and overall health.

• Boosted Confidence: A properly aligned smile can enhance self-esteem and help you feel more confident.

The Surgical Orthodontic Process

1. Consultation and Planning: Our Richmond orthodontists will evaluate your dental and jaw alignment, collaborating with an oral surgeon to develop a personalized plan.

2. Pre-Surgical Orthodontics: Braces or Invisalign will be used to align the teeth in preparation for surgery.

3. Surgical Procedure: The oral surgeon repositions the jaw or exposes impacted teeth during the procedure.

4. Post-Surgical Recovery: After surgery, orthodontic treatment continues to fine-tune your smile as you heal.

5. Final Results: Experience a properly aligned bite, improved facial balance, and a healthy, functional smile.