Surgical treatment

Name: Janice Sommerville Orthodontist
Telephone: 09 524 7628

Surgical orthodontics, a combination of orthodontics and orthognathic surgery, is suggested when the bite cannot be corrected by moving the teeth alone.

The combined treatment improves jaw alignment, establishing a correct bite and usually results in enhanced facial aesthetics. Orthodontic braces are worn before, during, and after the surgery, with the braces usually removed within three to six months following the surgery.

During your initial consultation, we will recommend the best treatment option based on your individual needs.

When is surgical
treatment needed?

Surgical orthodontic treatment is typically only required when there are significant issues that cannot be corrected by fixed braces or removable aligners. Jaw growth abnormalities, congenital conditions affecting jaw alignment, and severe bite discrepancies are common indications for surgical treatment.

Dr. Janice Sommerville can help you decide if surgery is needed

The diagnosis

Your Orthodontist plays a crucial role in determining the necessity of surgical treatment. Through comprehensive evaluations, which include X-rays, 3D imaging, and detailed dental and facial analysis, she will assess the extent of misalignment and the relationship between your teeth and jaw structures. Based on these assessments, your Orthodontist will explain the potential outcomes and necessity of surgery in your specific case.

The process

If surgery is suggested, we routinely refer you on to the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon who will carry out the procedure. The surgeon will review the planned procedure, show computerised animations of the proposed changes, and answer all your concerns regarding the procedure and possible risks. An estimate of the surgical fee will be given.

The risks

As with any surgical procedure, there may be certain risks of having orthognathic surgery. The process of orthognathic surgery is not new, and it has been performed for many years in practices and hospitals. We will refer to an experienced trusted surgeon to minimize risk and ensure a successful stable outcome.

Benefits of surgical orthodontic treatment

Orthognathic surgery in combination with orthodontics has the ability to truly improve your quality of life:

Improved Functionality: Corrects issues with chewing, breathing, or speech that are related to jaw misalignments
Enhanced Appearance: Aligns the jaws to improve facial symmetry and aesthetics
Long-Term Stability: Offers a permanent solution to severe orthodontic issues, with results that provide stability
Increased Comfort: Relieves discomfort or pain associated with jaw misalignment

Benefits of surgical orthodontic treatment

Orthodontic surgery FAQs

What are the different types of orthodontic surgeries?

Does orthodontic surgery hurt?

How long does it take to recover from orthognathic surgery?

Book a consultation

Are you a candidate for a combined orthodontic / orthognathic surgery treatment?

During your initial consultation, Dr. Janice Sommerville will provide a thorough evaluation of your facial structure and bite to find the most suitable treatment plan for you, recommending a combined orthodontic/orthognathic surgery plan surgery only if it’s necessary.

Book a Consultation