How Oral Surgery Supports Faster, More Effective Orthodontic Results

Orthodontic treatment is beneficial for the vast majority of people. It provides properly aligned teeth and bite patterns for improved dental function and oral health. Mild to moderate cases can usually be treated with braces or clear aligners. Even severe cases may be effectively corrected using braces. But for certain patients orthodontic treatment alone cannot provide the necessary adjustments to achieve the desired results.

In these cases oral surgery may be needed to restructure the shape of the jaw and facial bones to help the teeth line up properly. Learn more about how oral surgery procedures can accelerate orthodontic treatment for better results. 

What is Oral Surgery? 

Oral surgery refers to any surgical procedure performed inside the mouth. From tooth extractions to corrective jaw surgery, oral surgery may require cutting into soft and hard tissues for the purpose of restructuring or readjusting the position and shape of the teeth and/or jaw. 

Benefits of Oral Surgery

• Accelerate orthodontic treatment. When used in conjunction with orthodontic treatment, oral surgery can speed up the process and reduce overall treatment duration. 
• Reduce the need for orthodontic treatment. Oral surgery performed at the right time can reduce the need for future orthodontic treatment or even eliminate it. 
• Improve facial appearance. Though the goal of oral surgery is not typically cosmetic, the results can dramatically reshape your facial structure in positive ways. 
• Improve breathing. Poor breathing, especially at night, can cause a variety of health problems. Oral surgery combined with orthodontic treatment can improve breathing and reduce snoring. 

Oral Surgery Procedures That Support Orthodontic Treatment

• Tooth extraction. Having one or more teeth removed can accelerate orthodontic treatment by alleviating crowding and allowing remaining teeth to move into proper alignment. Wisdom teeth removal can prevent a variety of oral health problems.
• Corrective jaw surgery. Oral surgery on the upper or lower jaw, and sometimes both, can correct abnormalities in the shape of the jaws to allow the upper and lower teeth to meet together in proper alignment. 
• Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs). The placement of small titanium anchors in the jaw provide additional support for orthodontic treatment. 
• Expose, Bond, and Bracket. To help an impacted tooth come in properly, some gum tissue is removed and a bracket is attached to the tooth. 

What To Expect When it Comes to Oral Surgery

Oral surgery typically requires a deeper level of sedation than less invasive dental procedures. Your oral surgeon may recommend IV sedation for impacted tooth extraction or even general anesthesia for complex procedures such as corrective jaw surgery. General anesthesia is typically administered in a hospital setting for effective monitoring. You’ll need someone to drive you to and from your procedure and stay with you for the first 24 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Surgery for Orthodontics

How do I know if I need oral surgery? 

An evaluation by your orthodontist can provide insight into the best course of treatment to help you achieve the desired results. If oral surgery would be beneficial, your orthodontist will provide a recommendation and a referral if necessary. 

Do I need both orthodontic treatment and oral surgery? 

In most cases orthodontic treatment and oral surgery work best when used together. Your orthodontist and oral surgeon will work closely together to ensure the best results for you. 

Contact Oral Facial Surgery of Orange Park

Learn more about how oral surgery can improve your orthodontic treatment experience. Call Oral Facial Surgery of Orange Park at 904-269-5195 or contact us today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you achieve optimal oral health through the right combination of treatments.