Am I a Candidate for Surgical Orthodontics? Key Signs to Look For

When you think about orthodontics, most people picture braces or Invisalign. But sometimes, straightening teeth isn’t just about alignment—it’s about the jaw itself. That’s where surgical orthodontics, also called orthognathic surgery, comes in. This treatment combines traditional orthodontics with jaw surgery to correct severe bite problems, facial asymmetry, or jaw discrepancies that braces alone can’t fix.

It’s a big step, and it’s normal to wonder: “Am I a candidate for surgical orthodontics?” The good news is that there are some clear signs that can help you figure out if this treatment might be right for you. Let’s break it down.

What Is Surgical Orthodontics?

Surgical orthodontics isn’t just about straightening teeth—it’s about correcting the foundation of your bite: your jaw. While braces and aligners move teeth gradually, jaw surgery physically repositions your upper and/or lower jaw to achieve proper alignment.

This procedure is usually recommended for people with significant jaw discrepancies—like severe underbites, overbites, open bites, crossbites, or noticeable facial asymmetry. The goal is both functional and cosmetic: better chewing, clearer speech, reduced jaw pain, and a balanced, confident smile.

Key Signs You Might Need Surgical Orthodontics

Not everyone with crooked teeth needs jaw surgery. Here are some of the most common signs that surgical orthodontics could be the solution.

1. Severe Bite Issues

If your teeth don’t meet properly, it can affect more than just your smile. A pronounced underbite, where the lower teeth extend past the upper teeth, or a severe overbite, where the upper teeth overlap too much, can strain your jaw and lead to problems like teeth grinding or headaches. An open bite, where your front teeth don’t meet, can make eating or speaking challenging. When bite problems are this severe, braces alone often won’t provide a long-term solution.

2. Facial Asymmetry

Sometimes, the jaw itself is uneven, creating an imbalanced look to the face. This might mean one side of your jaw sticks out more than the other or your chin is off-center. While this can be a cosmetic concern, it can also create functional problems like uneven wear on teeth or jaw discomfort. Surgical orthodontics addresses these issues, improving both function and appearance.

3. Difficulty Chewing or Speaking

Do you find yourself struggling with certain foods or chewing mostly on one side? Maybe some sounds are hard to pronounce. These functional issues often come from severe jaw misalignment. Surgery can realign the jaw so your bite works properly, making daily activities like eating and speaking easier.

4. Chronic Jaw Pain or TMJ Problems

If you regularly experience jaw pain, headaches, or clicking and popping in your jaw, misalignment could be the culprit. While not all TMJ problems require surgery, jaw discrepancies are a common cause of chronic discomfort. Correcting the jaw can relieve stress on the joints and prevent long-term damage.

5. Braces Alone Haven’t Worked

Sometimes patients start with traditional braces or aligners, only to find that their bite isn’t fully corrected. If your orthodontist notices that alignment can’t be achieved without addressing the jaw structure, surgery may be necessary. This ensures results are not only effective but also stable for the long term.

Benefits of Surgical Orthodontics

Surgical orthodontics offers more than a beautiful smile. Correcting jaw alignment can improve your quality of life in multiple ways:

• Better Functionality: Chewing, biting, and speaking become easier and more comfortable.

• Pain Relief: Proper jaw alignment reduces strain on the joints, often alleviating TMJ pain.

• Facial Balance: Surgery can correct asymmetry, creating a more harmonious profile.

• Long-Term Stability: Addressing the root structural problem prevents teeth from shifting back over time.

• Confidence Boost: Many patients find that improving their smile also improves their self-esteem and social confidence.

What to Expect During the Process

Surgical orthodontics is a coordinated process that takes time and careful planning. Typically, treatment starts with braces or aligners to position your teeth in preparation for surgery. Once your teeth are ready, your oral and maxillofacial surgeon performs the jaw surgery. After surgery, orthodontic treatment continues to fine-tune your bite and ensure optimal results.

Recovery depends on the complexity of the surgery. You can expect a few weeks of limited activity and a soft-food diet, followed by a gradual return to normal eating and routines. Your orthodontist and surgeon will provide guidance throughout recovery to make the process as smooth as possible.

How to Know if You’re a Candidate

The best way to determine if surgical orthodontics is right for you is with a comprehensive evaluation. Your orthodontist will assess your bite, jaw structure, and overall oral health. Advanced imaging and digital planning tools help create a personalized treatment plan designed to address your unique needs.

Even if you’re unsure, scheduling a consultation is the first step. You’ll get clarity on your options, expected outcomes, and whether surgery is truly necessary.

Take the Next Step With Factoria Orthodontics

If you’re dealing with severe bite issues, jaw pain, or facial asymmetry, it might be time to explore surgical orthodontics. At Factoria Orthodontics, we specialize in combining precise orthodontic treatment with surgical expertise to deliver lasting, life-changing results.

Whether you’re struggling with an overbite, underbite, open bite, or noticeable facial asymmetry, our team will create a customized plan to improve both your smile and oral function. Working with an orthodontist in Bellevue WA, you’ll have guidance and support throughout your treatment, from consultation to final results.

Ready to Transform Your Smile and Jaw Function?

Don’t let severe bite problems or jaw misalignment hold you back. Schedule a consultation with Factoria Orthodontics today and find out if surgical orthodontics is the right solution for you. With the right plan, you can achieve a healthier, more functional, and more confident smile—one that lasts a lifetime.