Surgical Orthodontic Treatment for Jaw Alignment
Surgical orthodontic treatment—also known as orthognathic surgery, is designed to correct jaw irregularities that cannot be fully addressed with braces alone. At Stone Oak Orthodontics, we work closely with trusted oral surgeons to help patients achieve better function, comfort, and facial balance when jaw alignment issues affect daily life.
If you’ve struggled with chewing, speaking, breathing, or facial imbalance, surgical orthodontics may be the missing piece that brings everything into alignment, literally and figuratively.
What Is Surgical Orthodontics?
Just as traditional orthodontics focuses on repositioning teeth, surgical orthodontics corrects the position of the jaws. When the upper and lower jaws are misaligned, teeth alone can’t always compensate for the imbalance.
Surgical orthodontics works by:
- Repositioning one or both jaws
- Improving how the teeth fit together
- Enhancing facial harmony and balance
- Supporting healthier breathing, chewing, and speech
Because moving the jaws also affects tooth position, braces are always part of the process. Orthodontic treatment ensures the teeth are properly aligned before and after surgery, creating a stable, long-term result.
In short, surgical orthodontics straightens the jaw so your teeth, and your bite, can finally work together.
Who Is a Candidate for Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontic treatment is typically recommended for non-growing adults who have jaw discrepancies that affect function or appearance.
Your orthodontist may consider this option if you have:
- A severe overbite, underbite, or open bite
- Facial asymmetry related to jaw position
- Difficulty chewing or speaking clearly
- Breathing concerns linked to jaw structure
- Bite problems that cannot be corrected with braces alone
Jaw growth is usually complete by:
- Around age 16 for girls
- Around age 18 for boys
Surgery itself cannot be performed until growth is complete. However, pre-surgical orthodontic treatment, the process of aligning the teeth in preparation, can often begin one to two years before surgery, depending on the individual case.
How Surgical Orthodontic Treatment Works
Surgical orthodontics is a carefully coordinated, multi-step process. While it may sound complex, each phase is planned with precision and purpose.
Phase 1: Orthodontic Preparation
Before surgery, you’ll wear braces for approximately 6 to 18 months. During this time:
- Teeth are moved into ideal positions relative to each jaw
- Regular adjustment visits are scheduled with Dr. Ray Caesar or Dr. Robert “Tito” Norris
- Your bite may temporarily feel “off”—this is expected and intentional
Although it can feel counterintuitive, these movements set the stage for proper jaw alignment during surgery.
Phase 2: Orthognathic Surgery
Jaw surgery is performed in a hospital setting by a specialized oral and maxillofacial surgeon. The procedure may take several hours, depending on the type and extent of correction needed.
Surgical options may include:
- Lower jaw surgery: repositioning the jaw forward or backward
- Upper jaw surgery: moving the jaw forward, backward, up, or down
- Combination surgery: adjusting both jaws for optimal balance
In some cases:
- Bone may be added or removed to achieve proper alignment
- The jaws may be separated to allow precise repositioning
- Other facial bones may be adjusted to support overall symmetry and stability
The goal is to place the jaws into their correct functional and aesthetic positions so the teeth can fit together naturally.
Phase 3: Healing and Orthodontic Finishing
Most patients can:
- Return to work or school within about two weeks
- Resume normal activities gradually as healing progresses
After an initial healing period of 4 to 8 weeks, orthodontic treatment resumes. This final phase involves:
- Fine-tuning the bite
- Ensuring ideal tooth alignment
- Creating a stable, comfortable result
In most cases, braces are removed within 6 to 12 months after surgery.
Life After Surgical Orthodontic Treatment
Once braces are removed, you’ll be fitted with retainers to help maintain your results. Retention is a crucial step that protects the investment you’ve made in your smile and jaw health.
Patients often notice improvements in:
- Bite comfort and function
- Facial balance and confidence
- Breathing and airway support
- Overall quality of life
For many, surgical orthodontics is truly life-changing, not just cosmetically, but functionally.
A Team-Based Approach You Can Trust
At Stone Oak Orthodontics, surgical orthodontic cases are handled with careful planning, clear communication, and close collaboration between orthodontist and surgeon.
Our doctors; Dr. Robert “Tito” Norris, Dr. Ray Caesar, and Dr. Maria Duarte, take the time to:
- Evaluate each case thoroughly
- Explain every phase of treatment clearly
- Coordinate care seamlessly with surgical specialists
You’ll never feel rushed or left guessing. Our priority is helping you feel confident, informed, and supported from start to finish.
Is Surgical Orthodontics Right for You?
Not every bite problem requires surgery, but for the right candidate, it can provide results that braces alone simply can’t achieve. A professional evaluation is the best way to understand your options and determine the right path forward.
Take the First Step Toward Better Function and Balance
If jaw misalignment is affecting your comfort, appearance, or confidence, surgical orthodontics may be the solution you’ve been waiting for. Schedule a consultation at Stone Oak Orthodontics today. Our experienced team will guide you through your options, answer your questions, and help you take the next step toward a healthier, more balanced smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Considering jaw surgery can feel overwhelming, and it’s completely normal to have questions. Below are answers to some of the most common things patients ask when researching surgical orthodontic treatment in San Antonio. If you don’t see your question here, our team is always happy to help.
How do I know if I need jaw surgery or just braces?
That’s one of the most common questions we hear. Some bite problems can be corrected with orthodontics alone, while others require jaw surgery to achieve proper function and balance. A comprehensive evaluation helps determine which approach is best for your specific anatomy and goals.
Is surgical orthodontics only for cosmetic reasons?
No. While improved facial balance is often a positive outcome, surgical orthodontics is primarily focused on function. Many patients pursue treatment to improve chewing, breathing, speech, or jaw comfort—not just appearance.
Will insurance cover surgical orthodontic treatment?
Coverage varies depending on your medical and dental insurance plans. In some cases, jaw surgery may be partially covered when it’s considered medically necessary. Our team can help you understand your benefits and guide you through the insurance process.
How long is recovery after jaw surgery?
Initial recovery typically takes a few weeks, with most patients returning to school or work in about two weeks. Full healing continues over time, and your care team will guide you through each phase to ensure a smooth recovery.
Can surgical orthodontics help with breathing or airway issues?
In some cases, yes. Repositioning the jaws can improve airway space and support healthier breathing. This is evaluated on an individual basis during your consultation.