Combined orthodontic and surgical treatment

Combined orthodontic and surgical therapy

Not every misalignment can be corrected via the teeth alone. If the upper and lower jaw deviate strongly from one another skeletally, orthodontics and maxillofacial surgery work hand in hand.

When a surgical procedure is necessary

In the case of pronounced skeletal deviations between the jaws, correction is only possible by means of a surgical procedure. In orthodontics the dental arches are prepared in such a way that the surgeon can subsequently set an optimal occlusion.

Inherited and acquired malformations in the jaw and facial region frequently have an unfavourable influence on the harmony of facial aesthetics; usually speech and chewing ability as well as breathing are impaired too. After orthodontic preparation, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon corrects the misalignment surgically, for example by moving the jaw forwards or backwards.

The most important facts at a glance

  • If the upper and lower jaw differ considerably in their skeletal position, correcting the teeth alone is not enough.
  • Orthodontics and oral surgery then work together in a joint treatment plan.
  • First the dental arches are prepared orthodontically so that an optimal interlocking of the teeth becomes possible afterwards.
  • An oral and maxillofacial surgeon corrects the malposition surgically, for example by moving the jaw forwards or backwards.
  • Besides facial aesthetics, speaking, chewing and breathing are often affected by such malformations as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the jaw have to be operated on?
When the upper and lower jaw deviate strongly from each other skeletally. The misalignment can then no longer be balanced out by moving the teeth alone.
Why do I need a brace before the operation?
Because the dental arches first have to be shaped so that the jaws interlock optimally after the operation. Without this preparation the result would not be stable.
Who carries out the operation?
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon. We take care of the orthodontic preparation and follow-up; the planning is done jointly.
Is such a treatment only about appearance?
No. Pronounced jaw misalignments frequently also affect speech, chewing and breathing. The correction improves function and appearance at the same time.