Surgical Orthodontics
Certain patients experience severe bite issues or significant esthetic concerns caused by excessive or deficient growth of their jaws. Alongside orthodontic care, these individuals may find Orthognathic Surgery beneficial. This oral surgery aims to correct the position of the jaw.
Dr. Weiss collaborates closely with an oral surgeon to meticulously plan and achieve optimal treatment outcomes.
Surgical orthodontics involves a collaborative approach between an orthodontist and an oral surgeon to address jaw abnormalities.
The decision for jaw surgery is made after the orthodontist conducts a thorough clinical assessment and reviews X-rays, photos, and models obtained during the records appointment. If Dr. Weiss determines that jaw surgery is the appropriate course of treatment based on these findings, he will discuss in detail with the patient to ensure an informed decision.
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Although braces can be applied while the patient is still growing, jaw surgery can only proceed once skeletal growth is complete, typically by age 16-17 for girls and 18-19 for boys.
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During the initial phase of treatment, the orthodontist aligns and positions the teeth within the jawbone in preparation for surgery. Once this phase is complete, the oral surgeon performs the necessary surgical adjustments to correct the jaw position and bite. Following surgery, the patient returns to the orthodontist to finalize treatment. Throughout the entire process, braces remain on the teeth.
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Ultimately, this comprehensive treatment approach enhances the patient's ability to chew, speak, breathe, and improves facial esthetics.