Surgical Orthodontics

At Cedar Smiles Orthodontics, Dr. Rola Alkhatib understands that some orthodontic concerns go beyond what braces or aligners alone can correct. In certain cases, achieving a healthy bite, proper jaw alignment, and balanced facial appearance requires a more comprehensive approach. This is where surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, may play an important role.

Surgical orthodontics combines orthodontic treatment with jaw surgery to correct significant skeletal imbalances. When carefully planned and coordinated, this approach can dramatically improve function, comfort, and facial harmony—helping patients feel better and live more comfortably.

What Is Surgical Orthodontics?

Surgical orthodontics, or orthognathic surgery, is a treatment option used to correct jaw alignment issues that cannot be resolved with orthodontics alone. These conditions often involve discrepancies between the upper and lower jaws that affect how the teeth fit together.

This type of treatment requires close collaboration between an orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Dr. Rola works closely with trusted surgical specialists to ensure treatment is well-coordinated from start to finish.

When appropriate, surgical orthodontics can help improve:

• Chewing and biting efficiency
• Speech clarity
• Breathing and airway function
• Facial balance and overall appearance

Who Is a Candidate for Surgical Orthodontics?

Surgical orthodontics is typically recommended for adult patients who have completed jaw growth and have significant bite or jaw alignment concerns. Jaw growth is usually complete around age 16 for females and age 18 for males, which is why orthognathic surgery is not performed until growth has finished. Sometimes unpredictable jaw growth can even happen into the early 20’s. 

Candidates may include adults who:

• Have a bite that does not function properly
• Experience facial imbalance related to jaw position
• Struggle with chewing, speaking, or breathing due to jaw alignment
• Did not have the option for corrective treatment earlier in life

While surgery itself must wait until growth is complete, pre-surgical orthodontic treatment, such as braces, may begin one year earlier to prepare the teeth for proper alignment after surgery.

How Does Surgical Orthodontic Treatment Work?

Surgical orthodontics is a step-by-step process that unfolds over time. Treatment begins with orthodontics to position the teeth correctly within each jaw. In some cases, this phase may temporarily make the bite appear worse, this is expected and part of the preparation process.

If braces or Invisalign alone cannot correct the bite, Dr. Rola may recommend orthognathic surgery to reposition the jaws so the teeth can come together properly.

The surgery itself is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and may take several hours, depending on the complexity of the case.

What Happens During Jaw Surgery?

The exact surgical approach depends on each patient’s needs.

• Lower jaw surgery involves separating the jawbone behind the teeth and moving it forward or backward to achieve proper alignment.
• Upper jaw surgery may involve repositioning the jaw upward, downward, forward, or backward. It may also involve splitting the upper jaw to make it wider.
• In some cases, both jaws are adjusted to create balance and stability.
• Bone may be added, removed, or reshaped to support proper alignment and long-term results.

Facial bones that influence alignment may also be repositioned or enhanced to improve function and appearance.

Recovery After Orthognathic Surgery

Recovery from surgical orthodontics happens in stages.

Most patients can expect:

• About two weeks of initial recovery before returning to work or school
• Four to eight weeks for more complete healing
• Follow-up visits to monitor healing and progress

After surgery, Dr. Rola will continue making minor orthodontic adjustments to fine-tune the bite. Braces or Invisalign are typically removed six to twelve months after surgery, once alignment is complete.

Once braces or Invisalign are removed, patients wear retainers to maintain their results and protect their new smile.

Benefits That Go Beyond Alignment

Surgical orthodontics is not just about straight teeth, it’s about restoring balance and function.

Patients often notice:

• Improved comfort when chewing and speaking
• Better jaw function and reduced strain
• Enhanced facial harmony and confidence
• Long-term stability that supports oral health

For many adults, this treatment can be life-changing. Certain orthodontic-surgical treatments may also support better airway function.

A Team-Based, Personalized Approach

At Cedar Smiles Orthodontics in Marysville, OH, Dr. Rola Alkhatib takes a thoughtful, individualized approach to surgical orthodontics. Every recommendation is made with your long-term health, comfort, and goals in mind.

Not every patient needs surgery, but when it is the right solution, careful planning and expert coordination make all the difference.

Schedule a Complimentary Surgical Orthodontic Consultation

If you’ve been told your bite or jaw alignment may require surgery, or if you’re struggling with function, comfort, or facial balance, an evaluation can provide clarity.

Dr. Rola Alkhatib offers complimentary consultations at Cedar Smiles Orthodontics to help you understand your options and determine the best path forward.

A healthier bite and balanced smile may be closer than you think.
Contact our office today to schedule your consultation and take the next step toward lasting comfort and confidence.