Are you considering orthodontic treatment but need to know if traditional braces or clear aligners suit you? Have you heard of surgical orthodontics but don’t know much about it? Look no further! In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of surgical orthodontics and why it may be the perfect solution for your smile. From correcting severe bite issues to improving facial aesthetics, learn everything you need to know about this innovative approach to orthodontic treatment. So please sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of surgical orthodontics!
What is Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics is a type of dental procedure that is used to correct severe dental problems. An orthodontist usually performs this surgery, but a dentist can also do it. The most common type of surgical orthodontics is braces, used to straighten teeth and improve the bite. Other types of surgical orthodontics include:
- Jaw surgery: This surgery is used to correct the jaw’s alignment. It can be used to correct an overbite, underbite, or crossbite.
- Palate expansion: This type of surgery is used to widen the palate (roof of the mouth). It is often used with braces to help expand the jaws and improve the bite.
- Gum surgery: This type of surgery is used to improve the appearance of the gums. It can also be used to treat periodontal disease.
Benefits of Surgical Orthodontics
There are many benefits to surgical orthodontics:
- Surgical orthodontics can provide faster results than traditional braces or other dental treatments.
- Surgery can improve the function and appearance of your teeth and bite.
- Surgical options can correct more complex dental problems that may not respond to traditional treatments.
Standard Procedures Involved in Surgical Orthodontics
There are a variety of surgical procedures that can be used to improve the alignment of your teeth and jaws. The most common procedures involve:
- Orthognathic surgery: This surgery corrects a wide range of dental and facial irregularities, including malocclusion (bad bite). It involves repositioning the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both.
- Maxillomandibular advancement: This procedure treats sleep apnea and other breathing problems by bringing the upper and lower jaws forward.
- Sagittal split osteotomy: This procedure corrects an overly narrow upper jaw by splitting it in the middle and moving it forward.
- LeFort I osteotomy: This procedure is used to correct an excessively protruding upper jaw by cutting it in three places and repositioning it.
- Genioplasty: This procedure is used to improve the appearance of your chin by surgically altering its shape or size.
Alternatives to Surgical Orthodontics
If you are considering surgical orthodontics but are looking for alternatives, a few options are available. Traditional braces and Invisalign are two non-surgical orthodontic treatments that can be used to straighten teeth. However, these methods may take longer to achieve the desired results than surgical orthodontics.
Another alternative to surgical orthodontics is mini-implants. Mini-implants are small titanium screws placed into the jawbone to support dental appliances such as braces or retainers. Mini-implants are less invasive than traditional implants and can be an option for patients not candidates for surgery.
Clear aligners such as Invisalign can also be an alternative to surgical orthodontics. Clear aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed for eating and cleaning. However, clear aligners may not be suitable for all dental corrections.
Conclusion
Surgical orthodontics can provide a fast, effective solution for many dental issues. Considering all the benefits before deciding on treatment is essential. By talking with your dentist about any concerns or questions, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and goals. With surgical orthodontics, you can enjoy improved aesthetics and oral health quickly.