Surgical Orthodontics

For some patients, beautifully aligned teeth depend on properly aligned jaws. Surgical orthodontics — also called orthognathic treatment — corrects significant jaw discrepancies that LightForce or aligners alone cannot fully resolve, restoring both function and facial balance.

When Surgery May Be Recommended

Surgical orthodontics is typically reserved for more complex cases where the upper and lower jaws do not meet correctly. It may be considered when:

• A severe overbite, underbite, or open bite affects chewing or speech
• The jaws are noticeably out of proportion
• Facial imbalance stems from skeletal, not just dental, differences
• Breathing or sleep concerns are linked to jaw position

How the Process Works

Surgical orthodontics is a team effort. We coordinate with a trusted oral and maxillofacial surgeon, while we manage the orthodontic phases before and after surgery. LightForce usually aligns the teeth first, the surgeon repositions the jaw, and we then fine-tune the bite for a stable, lasting result.

What to Expect

Every surgical case is highly individualized. During your consultation we use advanced imaging to evaluate your bite and jaw relationship, then explain your options clearly. You can learn more about related concerns on our common orthodontic issues and dentofacial orthopedics pages.

A Confident Path Forward

Jaw concerns can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to navigate them alone. Our experienced team, led by Dr. Lee Andrews, will guide you through each step with care and clarity.