Most bite problems can be corrected with braces, clear aligners or an orthodontic appliance. When the issue sits in the jaw bones themselves and growth has already finished, moving teeth alone may not produce a healthy, stable bite. In those cases, orthodontic treatment is combined with corrective jaw surgery. At Premiere Orthodontics in Winter Springs, Dr. Jason Battle diagnoses these skeletal concerns, prepares the teeth before surgery, coordinates with the surgeon and finishes the bite afterward.
When Teeth Are Not the Whole Problem
Surgical orthodontics, also called orthognathic surgery or corrective jaw surgery, treats jaw irregularities, skeletal discrepancies and severe misalignments. If the upper and lower jaws are mismatched in size or position, braces can only compensate so far. Repositioning the bones creates a foundation the teeth can actually rest on.
Conditions That May Point Toward Jaw Surgery
It is difficult to judge this from the mirror, which is why a professional exam matters. Signs that may indicate a need for surgical orthodontics include:
- A receding chin or a protruding lower jaw
- Lips or front teeth that do not meet when the mouth is closed
- Facial differences present from birth or caused by injury
- Frequent mouth breathing
- Sleep apnea
Having one of these does not automatically mean surgery. Dr. Battle reviews your bite, jaw relationship and imaging, then explains whether orthodontics alone, surgery combined with orthodontics, or another route makes the most sense for your case.
The Orthodontist’s Role, Step by Step
Jaw surgery is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, typically in a hospital. Dr. Battle does not perform the surgery himself. His role is to diagnose the problem, plan the bite, refer you to an experienced surgeon and manage the orthodontic treatment that surrounds the procedure.
Diagnosis and records
Your first visit includes an exam of the teeth and jaw bones. Our office uses 3D CBCT imaging and digital scanning so Dr. Battle can see the teeth, jaw bones and joints in detail before recommending anything.
Coordinating with the surgeon
If orthognathic surgery is the right path, we refer you to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and coordinate the plan so the orthodontic and surgical steps fit together. Timing matters, since the surgery is planned around where the teeth and jaws need to end up.
Recovery and finishing the bite
The surgery itself may take a few hours, and recovery generally takes a couple of weeks. We recommend planning time off work or school. Once the jaws heal, Dr. Battle reassesses your bite and continues braces treatment to fine-tune how the teeth meet, typically for the next 6 to 12 months depending on your case.
Keeping the result
After braces come off, a custom retainer stabilizes the teeth in their new positions. Wearing it as directed is what protects the investment you have made.
What Corrective Jaw Surgery Can Improve
When it is needed, repositioning the jaw bones creates a better alignment and bite position. That can restore the ability to bite, chew and speak properly. Because the jaws play a critical role in facial structure, corrective surgery can also improve your appearance, boost your self-esteem and renew your confidence.
Like any major surgery, orthognathic surgery carries risks. Your surgeon will discuss them in detail, and our team is available to answer questions about the orthodontic side at any point. You should never feel rushed toward a decision.
Can Surgery Be Avoided?
Sometimes. Through early orthodontic treatment, skeletal problems can often be guided while a child’s jaw bones are still developing, which may prevent the need for surgery later. That is why a first orthodontic exam by age 7 is so valuable. Once the bones have stabilized, though, surgery may be the most reliable way to correct a significant jaw discrepancy, and adults considering braces for adults can have this question answered at their first consultation.
A Board-Certified Specialist Guiding the Process
Combined surgical and orthodontic care spans many months and several providers, so it helps to have one orthodontist keeping the plan coherent. Dr. Jason Battle is a board-certified orthodontist and Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics with over 20 years of experience.
Our local orthodontist office is at 5733 Canton Cv, just off SR 417 near Tuskawilla Rd and Red Bug Lake Rd, a manageable stop for adults commuting from Altamonte Springs, Winter Park or Chuluota. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
On the orthodontic side, all treatment options are offered at the same price, with low or no down payment and zero-interest in-house orthodontic financing. We accept most insurance, including PPO, HMO and DeltaCare, and offer a Medicaid discount. Completing full treatment with us also includes our Lifetime Guarantee: if your teeth shift because a retainer was not worn, Dr. Battle will replace your braces, with only a nominal monthly adjustment charge and the cost of a new retainer.
Surgical Orthodontics FAQ
Does Dr. Battle perform the jaw surgery?
No. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon performs the procedure. Dr. Battle handles diagnosis, referral, orthodontic preparation and the braces treatment that finishes your bite after healing.
Will I need braces after surgery?
Typically, yes. Braces after surgery refine how the teeth fit together once the jaws are in their new position, followed by a retainer.
How do I find out if I need surgery?
Schedule an exam. Dr. Battle will examine your teeth and jaws with no charge and no obligation and explain every option available to you.
Call (407) 699-1200 or book a New Patient Exam to get a clear answer about your jaw alignment.