Surgical Orthodontics: When Braces Alone Aren’t Enough

Most orthodontic problems can be corrected with braces or Invisalign alone. But in some cases, the jaws, not just the teeth, are out of alignment.

When jaw size or position differences are too large to be fixed with orthodontic tooth movement alone, we may recommend surgical orthodontics—also called orthognathic surgery—as part of a coordinated treatment plan.

At Othman Orthodontics, serving Lombard and Orland Park, IL, we work closely with experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons to help correct these complex issues.

In this guide, we’ll explain:

• What surgical orthodontics is
• When jaw surgery may be needed
• How braces or Invisalign fit into the process
• What to expect before, during and after surgery

What Is Surgical Orthodontics?

Surgical orthodontics combines orthodontic treatment (braces or aligners) with jaw surgery performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

Braces move the teeth. Surgery repositions the jaws when their relationship is significantly off.

Together, they can:

• Correct severe overbites, underbites and open bites.
• Improve facial balance and profile.
• Enhance chewing, speaking and breathing function.

When Is Surgical Orthodontics Recommended?

We might discuss surgical options if you have:

• Very large overbite or underbite caused by jaw size differences.
• Significant facial asymmetry (one side of the jaw different from the other).
• Open bite that cannot be corrected fully with braces alone.
• Jaw issues affecting chewing, speech, or airway (in certain cases).

Surgical orthodontics is usually reserved for adults and older teens, because:

• Jaw growth should be complete before repositioning the jaws surgically.
• We want to work with a stable bone structure.

We will thoroughly evaluate your teeth, bite, facial structure and growth history before recommending surgery.

Can Invisalign Be Used With Surgical Orthodontics?

In some cases, yes. While traditional braces are still commonly used with surgical cases, Invisalign or clear aligners may be an option for certain parts of the treatment plan.

We’ll discuss the best approach for your specific case:

• Braces before and after surgery.
• A combination of braces and aligners.
• Aligners used in selected surgical cases (depending on complexity).

The Surgical Orthodontic Treatment Timeline

While every case is unique, the general sequence looks like this:

1. Consultation & Planning

• Comprehensive orthodontic exam, photos, X-rays and digital scans.
• Discussion of goals, concerns and expectations.
• Collaboration with an oral surgeon to design a combined plan.

2. Pre-Surgical Orthodontics

Before surgery, we use braces (or aligners in select cases) to:

• Align individual teeth within each jaw.
• Prepare the bite so that when the jaws are repositioned, teeth fit together properly.

This phase can take several months to over a year, depending on your starting point.

3. Jaw Surgery

The oral surgeon performs jaw surgery in a hospital or surgical center setting. Common procedures include:

• Repositioning the upper jaw (maxilla).
• Repositioning the lower jaw (mandible).
• Sometimes both jaws, and occasionally the chin.

You’ll typically stay in the hospital for a short period and then recover at home. Pain is managed with medications and detailed instructions are provided for diet and activity.

4. Post-Surgical Orthodontics

After healing, we continue orthodontic treatment to:

• Fine-tune your bite.
• Polish the alignment of individual teeth.

This phase is usually shorter than the pre-surgical phase.

5. Retainers & Long-Term Stability

At the end of treatment, you’ll wear retainers to maintain the new tooth and jaw positions.

Benefits of Surgical Orthodontics

When indicated, surgical orthodontics can provide benefits that braces alone cannot, including:

• Improved facial symmetry and profile.
• Better function when biting, chewing and speaking.
• Greater long-term stability of the bite in certain complex cases.
• More harmonious relationship between upper and lower jaws.

Many patients report not only physical benefits, but also significant improvements in confidence and quality of life.

Is Surgical Orthodontics Right for You?

It might be worth discussing if:

• You’ve been told you have a severe overbite, underbite or open bite.
• Your teeth don’t touch properly when you bite down.
• You’ve been told in the past that braces alone can’t fully correct your bite.
• You’re unhappy with your jaw position or facial balance and want to explore options.

Not everyone with a significant bite problem needs surgery—sometimes we can achieve excellent results with braces or Invisalign alone. That’s why a thorough evaluation is key.

Surgical Orthodontics in Lombard & Orland Park, IL

Lombard Office

Our Lombard office coordinates surgical orthodontics for patients in Lombard, Downers Grove, Elmhurst, Wheaton, Villa Park, Oak Brook, Oakbrook Terrace, Hinsdale, Westmont, Lisle, Naperville, working closely with trusted oral surgeons in the area.

Orland Park Office

Our Orland Park office provides the same advanced planning and coordination for patients in Orland Park, Tinley Park, Palos Heights, Palos Park, Homer Glen, Oak Forest, Mokena, Frankfort, New Lenox, Lockport.

Take the First Step Toward a Healthier Bite & Balanced Smile

If you’ve been told your bite is “too severe” for braces alone—or you’re simply not sure what’s possible—an evaluation can give you answers.

Schedule an orthodontic consultation in Lombard, IL or an orthodontic consultation in Orland Park, IL with Othman Orthodontics.

We’ll assess your teeth, jaws and facial balance, explain whether surgical orthodontics is recommended, and design a plan—using braces, Invisalign, surgery, or a combination—that helps you achieve a functional, stable and confident smile.