Surgical Orthodontics
Surgical Orthodontics
Some bite and alignment problems go deeper than what braces alone can fix. When the issue is in the jaw itself, surgical orthodontics combines orthodontic treatment with corrective jaw surgery to give you a result that’s both functional and beautiful. At Citrus Grove Orthodontics, we guide patients in Whittier and Orange County through every step of this process, from planning to recovery.
How Surgical Orthodontics Can Help?
Surgical orthodontics, sometimes called orthognathic surgery, is recommended when there’s a significant jaw misalignment that braces or aligners can’t correct on their own. This might look like a severe underbite, overbite, open bite, or a jaw that’s noticeably asymmetrical. Beyond the cosmetic concerns, these issues can make it hard to chew, speak clearly, or even breathe comfortably.
The process usually starts with a phase of braces to align your teeth, followed by surgery performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to reposition the jaw. After surgery, you’ll continue with braces for a bit to fine-tune everything. The whole treatment typically takes two to three years, but the transformation can be life-changing.
We work closely with experienced oral surgeons in the Whittier and Orange County area to coordinate your care. You’ll always know what’s coming next, and we’ll be with you at every appointment and milestone along the way.
Surgical Orthodontics vs. Braces Alone
Braces are great at straightening teeth, but they can only work with the jaw you’ve got. When the upper and lower jaws aren’t lined up properly, braces can move teeth around to compensate but they can’t actually reposition the jaw itself. That’s where surgical orthodontics comes in. Instead of working around the problem, it fixes it at the source so your teeth and jaw are both where they need to be. It’s a bigger commitment than braces alone, but for patients who need it the difference in outcome is night and day. We’ll always be honest with you about whether surgery is truly necessary or if braces on their own can get the job done.
Why Choose Citrus Grove Orthodontics?
At Citrus Grove Orthodontics, we believe every smile tells a story, and we’re here to make yours unforgettable! No two smiles are the same, so we craft personalized treatment plans designed to help you beam with confidence. From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll be greeted with a warm, friendly vibe that’ll make you feel right at home. For us, it’s all about making your journey comfortable and effective—from your first consultation to every step along the way. Let’s create a smile you’ll love to show off!
Frequently Asked Questions About Surgical Orthodontics
How do I know if I need surgical orthodontics?
If your bite issues are coming from the position of your jaw and not just your teeth, surgery might be the best way to get a lasting result. Things like a severe underbite, overbite, or a jaw that sits off to one side are common signs. We'll do a full evaluation at your consultation and be upfront with you about whether surgery is really needed or if braces alone can handle it.
Is jaw surgery safe?
Yes. Orthognathic surgery has been performed for decades and is done by specially trained oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Like any surgery there are risks to be aware of, but complications are uncommon. We work with experienced surgeons and make sure you understand exactly what to expect before anything moves forward.
Where do you perform surgical orthodontics in Whittier and Orange County?
Your orthodontic care happens right here at our Whittier and Orange offices. The surgery itself is performed at a hospital or surgical center by an oral surgeon we partner with in the area. We coordinate everything between our office and the surgeon so you never have to worry about juggling two separate treatment plans on your own.
What does recovery look like after jaw surgery?
The first week or two is the hardest part. You'll have some swelling and soreness and you'll be on a liquid and soft food diet for a few weeks while everything heals. Most patients feel ready to go back to work or school within two to four weeks. By the six to eight week mark things usually feel pretty close to normal again.
Will insurance cover surgical orthodontics?
In a lot of cases yes. Because jaw surgery corrects functional problems like difficulty chewing or breathing, medical insurance often covers part of the cost. Every plan is different though so we'll help you understand your benefits and figure out what's covered before you commit to anything.
How long does surgical orthodontic treatment take?
From start to finish most cases take about two to three years. That includes a phase of braces before surgery, the procedure itself, and then another phase of braces afterward to dial everything in. We'll map out a clear timeline during your consultation so you know what you're signing up for.
Can adults in Orange County get surgical orthodontics or is it just for younger patients?
Adults are actually the most common candidates for surgical orthodontics. Once your jaw stops growing in your late teens, surgery becomes the main option for correcting significant jaw misalignment. We treat adults of all ages at our Orange and Whittier locations and see great results regardless of when someone decides to move forward with treatment.
What makes Citrus Grove Orthodontics a good choice for surgical orthodontics in Whittier?
We've guided many patients through the surgical orthodontic process and we know how important it is to feel supported every step of the way. From your very first consultation to the day your braces come off, you'll have a team that knows your case inside and out.
