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Orthognathic Procedures

Specialized corrective jaw surgery designed to address structural misalignment, restore proper bite function, and improve your long-term oral health and quality of life.

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What Is An Orthognathic Procedure?

Orthognathic procedures, commonly referred to as corrective jaw surgery, are surgical treatments that address structural misalignment of the jaw and facial bones. They are recommended when issues with the bite, jaw position, or facial structure cannot be corrected through orthodontic treatment alone.

Orthognathic surgery is almost always performed in coordination with orthodontic treatment. Most patients wear braces or aligners before and after surgery to ensure the teeth align correctly once the jaw is repositioned.

Orthognathic procedures are performed by experienced oral surgery specialists with the precision and expertise these treatments require. Your provider will work closely with your orthodontic team to coordinate your care and ensure your treatment plan is tailored to your specific jaw structure and long-term goals.

Here is what most patients can expect at a glance:

1-3
Hours of typical procedure duration
6-12
Weeks typical initial recovery timeline
12-18
Months is a full treatment timeline

Types of Orthognatic Procedures 

The procedure recommended for you will depend on which part of the jaw is affected and the nature of your misalignment
 
 

Upper Jaw Surgery

Upper jaw surgery, also known as a maxillary osteotomy, is performed to correct misalignment of the upper jaw and improve bite function, facial balance, and overall oral health. It may be recommended when the upper jaw is positioned too far forward, too far back, or in a way that affects how the teeth fit together. Using advanced 3D imaging and digital treatment planning, your surgeon can precisely reposition the jaw to create a healthier, more stable bite and improved facial symmetry. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and can correct skeletal discrepancies that orthodontic treatment alone cannot address.

When Are Orthognathic Procedures Recommended? 

 
Your provider may recommend corrective jaw surgery if you are experiencing any of the following conditions.
 
 

Significant overbite or underbite

An upper or lower jaw that extends too far forward or backward, affecting your bite and facial profile.

Chronic jaw pain or TMJ issues

Persistent jaw discomfort, clicking, or tension caused by structural misalignment that non-surgical treatment has not resolved.

Difficulty chewing or speaking

A misaligned jaw affecting your ability to bite, chew, or speak clearly on a daily basis.

Orthodontic treatment alone is not enough

Braces or aligners alone cannot fully correct your bite and your orthodontist has recommended surgery.

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What To Expect

A step-by-step look at the orthognathic procedure process at Smart Dental Network.
  
Dental practitioner explaining procedure
1

Consultation and planning

Your provider reviews your imaging, bite, and jaw structure in coordination with your orthodontic team to confirm the right surgical approach and build a detailed treatment plan.

2

Pre-surgical orthodontics

Braces or aligners are typically worn for several months before surgery to position your teeth correctly in preparation for jaw repositioning.

3

Surgery and recovery

Performed under general anesthesia with most patients going home within one to two days. Your provider will monitor healing closely before completing your orthodontic treatment.

Recovery & Aftercare

Orthognathic recovery takes time but is well supported at every stage. Here is what most patients typically experience.

Weeks 1-2

Immediately After

Swelling, soreness, and a liquid or soft food diet are expected in the first two weeks. Rest is important and your provider will give you detailed instructions to support
comfortable healing.

Weeks 3 – 6

Progressive Recovery

Swelling reduces significantly and most patients return to light daily activity. Your diet gradually expands as your jaw heals and your provider monitors your progress closely.

Months 2-3

Returning to Normal

Most patients feel close to fully recovered and orthodontic treatment resumes to finalize your bite. Your provider confirms healing is complete before moving forward with the final phase of your plan.

Other Oral Surgery Procedures

Explore the full range of oral surgery services available across Smart Dental Network locations.
 
 

Wisdom Teeth Removal

Safe extraction of impacted or problematic wisdom teeth, one of the most common procedures.

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Biopsies

Oral tissue sampling to evaluate unusual sores, lesions, or growths for diagnostic purposes.

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Full-Arch Implant Solutions

Full-arch implant-supported teeth placed in a single appointment, a permanent alternative to traditional dentures.

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Full Mouth Reconstruction

A comprehensive plan combining surgical and restorative procedures to restore function and aesthetics.

Learn more →

Frectenomies

Surgical release of restrictive oral tissue to restore proper function and support long-term oral health.

Learn more →
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Related Resources

 
From our resource center, helpful reading to support you before, during, and throughout
your orthognathic treatment and recovery.
 
  
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