Surgical Orthodontics in Lombard, IL

Combining Orthognathic Surgery and Braces for Complex Cases

Some bite and jaw problems are too severe to be corrected with braces or aligners alone. Surgical orthodontics in Lombard, IL—also called orthognathic surgery—combines orthodontic treatment with jaw surgery to correct significant skeletal imbalances and create a healthier, more balanced smile and bite.

At Othman Orthodontics in Lombard, we work with experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons to plan and guide surgical orthodontic treatment for patients from Lombard, Downers Grove, Elmhurst, Wheaton, Villa Park, Oak Brook, Oakbrook Terrace, Hinsdale, Westmont, Lisle and Naperville.

What Is Surgical Orthodontics?

Addressing Jaw Discrepancies, Not Just Teeth

Traditional orthodontics focuses mainly on moving teeth within the jaws. Surgical orthodontics is needed when the jaws themselves are out of position. Orthognathic surgery involves repositioning the upper jaw, lower jaw or both so that:

• The teeth can fit together properly.
• The facial profile and symmetry are improved.
• Chewing, speaking and breathing function can be optimized.

Braces or clear aligners are used before and after surgery to align the teeth to their ideal positions in the corrected jaws.

Who Might Need Surgical Orthodontics?

Signs of Jaw-Based Bite Problems

We may discuss orthognathic surgery if you have:

• Severe overbite or underbite caused by jaw size differences.
• Open bite where front teeth do not touch even when back teeth are together.
• Significant facial asymmetry or a noticeably shifted lower jaw.
• Chronic jaw pain or difficulty chewing due to jaw position.
• Sleep apnea or airway issues related to jaw structure (in coordination with your physician).

Surgical orthodontics is generally considered for adults and fully grown older teens whose jaw growth is complete.

The Surgical Orthodontics Process in Lombard

Step 1: Comprehensive Evaluation

Your journey begins with a detailed consultation at Othman Orthodontics in Lombard. We:

• Review your medical and dental history.
• Take photographs, digital X-rays and a 3D scan.
• Analyze your bite, jaw relationships and facial balance.
• Discuss your concerns about function, appearance and comfort.

If jaw surgery may be beneficial, we’ll explain why and outline the overall treatment sequence.

Step 2: Pre-Surgical Orthodontics

Before surgery, we use braces or sometimes clear aligners to:

• Level and align the teeth within each jaw.
• Decompensate any tooth positions that have “camouflaged” the underlying jaw problem.
• Prepare your bite so that, once the jaws are repositioned, the teeth will fit together correctly.

This phase can take several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of your case.

Step 3: Surgical Planning with Your Surgeon

We collaborate closely with a trusted oral and maxillofacial surgeon in the Lombard / western suburbs area. Together, we:

• Use digital models and imaging to simulate jaw movements.
• Determine which jaw(s) to operate on and how far to move them.
• Plan the surgery to optimize both function and facial aesthetics.

You’ll meet with the surgeon to discuss the procedure, anesthesia, hospital stay and recovery expectations.

Step 4: Orthognathic Surgery

The surgery itself is performed in a hospital or accredited surgical facility. During the procedure, the surgeon:

• Repositions the upper jaw, lower jaw or both according to the plan.
• Uses plates and screws to stabilize the bones in their new positions.
• Verifies your bite using your orthodontic setup as a guide.

After surgery, you’ll follow a specific diet and activity plan while your jaw heals.

Step 5: Post-Surgical Orthodontics

Once healing has progressed, we continue orthodontic treatment to:

• Fine-tune the bite.
• Make small adjustments to tooth positions for ideal alignment.
• Ensure both sides of your bite are balanced and comfortable.

When the bite is stable and everything looks and functions as planned, we remove the braces or finish with aligners and move into retention.

Step 6: Retainers and Long-Term Stability

After active treatment, custom retainers help maintain your new bite and smile. We’ll discuss:

• How often you should wear retainers.
• How to care for them.
• What follow-up visits are recommended long term.

Benefits of Surgical Orthodontics

• Improved bite function—chewing and speaking can become more comfortable and efficient.
• Enhanced facial balance—jaw repositioning can significantly improve facial profile and symmetry.
• Better long-term stability for severe skeletal discrepancies.
• Reduced strain on teeth and jaw joints over time.

Common Questions About Surgical Orthodontics

Is Surgery Always Necessary for Severe Bites?

Not always. In some cases, camouflage orthodontics (using braces or aligners alone) can improve the bite and appearance. However, for significant jaw discrepancies, surgery often provides the most stable, functional and aesthetic result. We will clearly outline the pros and cons of both approaches for you.

What Is Recovery Like?

Recovery experiences vary, but patients typically:

• Spend a short time in the hospital or surgical center.
• Follow a soft or liquid diet for a period recommended by the surgeon.
• Experience swelling and temporary discomfort, managed with medication and rest.

The surgeon and our team will provide detailed instructions and support throughout healing.

Why Choose Othman Orthodontics in Lombard for Surgical Orthodontics?

• Extensive experience coordinating orthognathic cases with local surgeons.
• Advanced diagnostics with digital imaging and 3D scanning.
• Clear, honest communication about expectations, alternatives and timelines.
• Personalized care tailored to your functional and aesthetic goals.
• Convenient Lombard location for patients across the western suburbs.

Schedule a Surgical Orthodontics Consultation in Lombard, IL

If you’ve been told you might need jaw surgery—or you have a severe bite that has been difficult to treat—schedule a surgical orthodontics consultation at Othman Orthodontics in Lombard, IL. We’ll carefully evaluate your case, explain your options and design a plan to help you achieve a healthier, more balanced smile.