Surgical Orthodontics in Los Angeles, CA
Surgical orthodontics isn’t necessary in every case of misalignment, but it can realign your jaw to restore your appearance and improve its function. At Century City Smiles & Orthodontics, Shawn Saidian, DDS, and Tania Ohebsion, DDS, plan orthognathic surgery for patients throughout the Greater Los Angeles area who have severe misalignment that can’t be treated with braces alone. For more information, call (310) 552-2724 or book an appointment online today.
Book OnlineWhat Is Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a treatment that supplements or replaces traditional orthodontic treatments like braces and clear aligners in extreme cases. During orthognathic surgery, your surgeon corrects structural issues with your teeth and the bones in your jaw and face. Typically, the team recommends completing traditional orthodontic treatment before surgery, since braces or aligners can make your teeth straight and well-aligned so they fit together perfectly after you heal.
When Is Surgical Orthodontics Necessary?
The team recommends surgical orthodontics only for patients whose jaws have finished growing, and not every adult with a misaligned smile needs it. After a thorough assessment, the team might recommend surgery if you have:
- An open bite
- A severe underbite
- A severe overbite
- A lower jaw that skews to one side of your face
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Trouble closing your mouth completely
- Excessive tooth wear on the bite surfaces
Complications like these can cause difficulty with speech as well as biting and chewing. Even without those troubles, you might seek surgical orthodontics because of how misalignment affects your appearance. Successful treatment can improve your self-image and confidence.
How Should I Prepare for Orthognathic Surgery?
You may need to wear braces for 12 to 18 months before your surgery. Once your braces are off, the team takes X-rays, photos, and 3D computed tomography (CT) scans of your teeth and jaw to create a detailed surgical plan. In the weeks before surgery, they may advise you to:
- Stop smoking
- Adjust or stop taking certain medications
- Follow instructions regarding eating and drinking, such as fasting beforehand
- Ask questions about your upcoming surgery and what to expect
- Shop for soft foods to eat as you recover
You can expect to stay in the hospital for 2 to 4 days after your surgery as you recover. Before the procedure, make arrangements at work and schedule the surgery either after or long before any significant events.
If your teeth are improperly aligned, especially if you have trouble eating or speaking, book a consultation for surgical orthodontics by calling (310) 552-2724 or scheduling online today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is surgical orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics, or orthognathic surgery, is a procedure that corrects structural issues with the teeth and the bones of the jaw and face. It is used in severe cases that cannot be treated with braces or aligners alone.
When is orthognathic surgery needed?
Surgery may be recommended for severe overbites, underbites, open bites, a jaw that skews to one side, obstructive sleep apnea, difficulty closing the mouth, or excessive tooth wear. It is only recommended once the jaw has finished growing.
Do I need braces before surgery?
In most cases, yes. Patients often wear braces for 12 to 18 months before surgery so the teeth are properly aligned and fit together correctly once healing is complete.
How long is recovery after orthognathic surgery?
Most patients stay in the hospital for 2 to 4 days after surgery. Full recovery takes time, so the team will provide detailed instructions, including a soft-food diet, to support your healing.
How do I prepare for orthognathic surgery?
Preparation may include stopping smoking, adjusting medications, fasting before the procedure, and stocking up on soft foods. The team takes X-rays, photos, and 3D scans to create your detailed surgical plan.
How do I find out if I’m a candidate?
Call (310) 552-2724 or request an appointment online for a consultation. The team will assess your smile and jaw and let you know whether surgical orthodontics is necessary for your case.