Orthognathic Surgery
Orthognathic Surgery

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Orthognathic Jaw Surgery in Rangsit, Pathum Thani

Orthognathic surgery, also called corrective jaw surgery, is a treatment used to reposition the upper jaw, lower jaw or both jaws when a significant skeletal discrepancy affects the bite, facial balance or oral function.

Unlike routine orthodontic treatment, which moves the teeth within the jawbone, orthognathic surgery changes the position of the jawbone itself.

The treatment is normally planned jointly by an orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Depending on the individual case, it may include orthodontic treatment before surgery, surgery in a hospital and further orthodontic treatment after the operation.

Corrective jaw surgery is not required for every overbite, underbite or uneven smile. Many tooth-alignment problems can be treated with braces or Invisalign clear aligners without surgery.

A complete examination is required to determine whether the main problem is caused by tooth position, jaw position or a combination of both.

What Is Orthognathic Surgery?

Orthognathic surgery is performed to reposition one or more jaw segments into a planned relationship.

The treatment may involve:

  • Moving the upper jaw
  • Moving the lower jaw
  • Moving both jaws
  • Correcting vertical jaw position
  • Improving significant jaw asymmetry
  • Repositioning the chin as part of a broader plan
  • Coordinating the jaws so that the teeth can meet more appropriately

The operation is only one stage of the overall treatment.

Planning also considers:

  • Tooth alignment
  • Root position
  • Bite relationship
  • Facial proportions
  • Airway and breathing concerns where relevant
  • Jaw-joint condition
  • Gum and bone health
  • Speech and chewing
  • Long-term bite stability
  • The patient’s treatment priorities

Changes in facial appearance may occur because the jaws and supporting soft tissues are repositioned. However, computer simulations and predicted facial changes should be used as planning and communication aids rather than guarantees of a specific appearance.

When May Corrective Jaw Surgery Be Considered?

Jaw surgery may be considered when a skeletal discrepancy is too significant to be treated predictably by moving the teeth alone.

Possible concerns include:

Underbite

An underbite occurs when the lower teeth and jaw sit noticeably in front of the upper teeth and jaw.

The condition may be related to:

  • A relatively prominent lower jaw
  • A relatively underdeveloped upper jaw
  • A combination of upper- and lower-jaw differences
  • Tooth-position compensation
  • Facial growth patterns

Mild cases may sometimes be managed orthodontically. More significant skeletal cases may require combined orthodontic and surgical treatment.

Significant overbite or recessed lower jaw

Some patients have a lower jaw that sits behind the upper jaw, which may contribute to an increased overjet, difficulty closing the lips comfortably or an imbalanced facial profile.

Not every overbite requires surgery. The treatment depends on whether the main problem comes from tooth position, jaw position or both.

Open bite

An open bite occurs when some upper and lower teeth do not meet when the mouth is closed.

Possible contributing factors include:

  • Skeletal growth pattern
  • Tooth position
  • Tongue posture
  • Oral habits
  • Vertical jaw relationship
  • Relapse after previous treatment

A dental open bite and a skeletal open bite may require different treatment approaches.

Facial or jaw asymmetry

One side of the jaw or face may appear different from the other because of uneven jaw growth, previous trauma, congenital conditions or other developmental factors.

Minor facial asymmetry is common and does not automatically require treatment. Surgery may be considered when the asymmetry is significant and affects the bite, function or treatment goals.

Difficulty chewing or biting

A large discrepancy between the jaws may prevent the teeth from meeting effectively.

Some patients may find it difficult to:

  • Bite through certain foods
  • Chew evenly on both sides
  • Bring the front teeth together
  • Maintain stable contact between the upper and lower teeth

Difficulty chewing can have several causes, so jaw surgery should only be considered after a complete diagnosis.

Excessive tooth wear or unstable bite

When the teeth meet in an unfavourable relationship, selected teeth may receive excessive forces.

The patient may experience:

  • Uneven tooth wear
  • Chipped teeth or restorations
  • Gum recession
  • Difficulty maintaining a stable bite
  • Repeated restorative problems

Orthodontic and restorative assessments may be needed before deciding whether skeletal correction is appropriate.

Difficulty closing the lips comfortably

Some patients have difficulty bringing the lips together without strain because of the relationship between the teeth, jaws and facial soft tissues.

This concern should be evaluated as part of the complete facial and bite analysis rather than assessed from photographs alone.

Jaw discrepancy associated with a congenital condition or injury

Corrective jaw surgery may also form part of a multidisciplinary plan for selected patients with:

  • Cleft lip or palate
  • Craniofacial developmental conditions
  • Previous jaw fracture
  • Uneven growth following childhood injury
  • Significant post-traumatic jaw deformity

These patients may require treatment through a hospital-based or multidisciplinary team.

Symptoms Alone Do Not Confirm the Need for Surgery

Jaw surgery should not be recommended solely because a patient has:

  • Crooked teeth
  • A prominent chin
  • A small chin
  • Jaw clicking
  • Facial asymmetry
  • An overbite
  • An underbite
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Concerns about facial appearance

Each of these concerns can have several possible causes and levels of severity.

For example, jaw clicking or facial pain may be associated with a temporomandibular disorder rather than a skeletal jaw discrepancy. Orthognathic surgery is not automatically a treatment for every jaw-joint symptom.

A diagnosis must be based on clinical examination, dental records, appropriate imaging and coordinated professional assessment.

Orthodontics Alone or Orthodontics with Jaw Surgery?

Orthodontic treatment can move teeth and change their inclination, but it cannot fully reposition an adult jawbone.

Orthodontics alone may be considered when:

  • The skeletal discrepancy is mild
  • Tooth movement can produce a functional bite
  • The planned movement is compatible with gum and bone health
  • Facial balance is acceptable to the patient
  • The treatment does not require excessive dental compensation
  • The patient understands the limitations

Combined orthodontic and surgical treatment may be considered when:

  • The jaw discrepancy is significant
  • Moving the teeth alone would not adequately correct the bite
  • Dental compensation is already pronounced
  • The planned orthodontic movement may exceed safe biological limits
  • Jaw position substantially affects function or facial balance
  • A stable result is unlikely with orthodontics alone

Neither approach is universally better.

A patient may choose orthodontic camouflage after understanding its limitations, while another patient with a similar-looking bite may prefer or require skeletal correction.

The decision should be based on diagnosis, health, treatment objectives, risks and patient preference.

Who May Be Suitable for Orthognathic Surgery?

A possible candidate may have:

  • A significant skeletal jaw discrepancy
  • A bite problem that cannot be corrected adequately with orthodontics alone
  • Jaw growth that is considered sufficiently complete
  • Healthy or appropriately treated teeth and gums
  • Realistic expectations
  • The ability to attend orthodontic and surgical appointments
  • A willingness to follow dietary and post-operative instructions
  • An understanding that treatment may take place over several stages
  • Medical fitness for the planned surgery and anaesthesia

Suitability cannot be determined from facial photographs or an online consultation alone.

The treating team must evaluate both the expected benefits and the risks of treatment.

Who May Need Further Assessment or Treatment First?

Additional preparation may be required for patients with:

  • Untreated tooth decay
  • Active gum disease
  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Loose teeth
  • Significant gum recession
  • Untreated dental infection
  • Impacted teeth
  • Missing teeth
  • Extensive crowns, bridges or implants
  • Uncontrolled medical conditions
  • A bleeding disorder
  • A history of difficult anaesthesia
  • Smoking or nicotine use
  • Significant jaw-joint symptoms
  • Expectations that cannot be achieved predictably

Patients with active periodontal disease may need gum treatment before orthodontic tooth movement begins.

Teeth that are severely damaged or infected may require root canal treatment, restoration or tooth extraction before surgery.

Wisdom teeth may also be assessed as part of the surgical plan, but they do not automatically need to be removed in every case. Visit the Wisdom Tooth Removal page for information specific to impacted third molars.

When Is Jaw Growth Complete?

Corrective jaw surgery is commonly planned after the relevant facial and jaw growth has slowed or finished.

There is no single age that confirms growth completion for every patient.

The treating team may consider:

  • Age
  • Sex
  • Growth history
  • Changes in facial proportions
  • Serial photographs or imaging
  • Dental development
  • The underlying diagnosis
  • Whether asymmetrical growth is still progressing

Some younger patients are monitored over time before a definitive surgical plan is confirmed.

Patients with congenital conditions, trauma or progressive asymmetry may require a different timing strategy.

Examination and Records Before Jaw Surgery

Orthognathic planning requires more information than a routine dental examination.

Medical and dental history

Patients should inform the treatment team about:

  • Current medicines
  • Drug allergies
  • Previous surgery
  • Previous reactions to anaesthesia
  • Bleeding problems
  • Heart or lung conditions
  • Diabetes
  • Sleep or breathing concerns
  • Previous facial trauma
  • Jaw-joint symptoms
  • Smoking or nicotine use
  • Mental-health history where relevant to treatment preparation
  • Previous orthodontic treatment
  • Expectations regarding function and appearance

Patients should not stop prescribed medication without instructions from the relevant doctor and treatment team.

Clinical examination

The orthodontic assessment may include:

  • Tooth alignment
  • Upper- and lower-jaw relationship
  • Facial symmetry
  • Lip position
  • Smile display
  • Jaw movements
  • Mouth opening
  • Gum condition
  • Missing teeth
  • Existing restorations
  • Tooth wear
  • Jaw-joint symptoms
  • Oral hygiene

Photographs and digital dental scans

Facial and intraoral photographs may be used to document the starting condition and assist communication between the patient, orthodontist and surgeon.

A digital scan or dental model may be used to analyse the bite and plan the position of the teeth.

Dental and facial imaging

Planning may involve:

  • Panoramic X-rays
  • Cephalometric X-rays
  • Three-dimensional imaging when clinically indicated
  • Additional hospital imaging depending on the operation

The type of imaging depends on the diagnosis and planned treatment. Three-dimensional imaging is not necessarily required for every initial consultation.

Information about available dental imaging can be found on the 3D Digital X-ray Center page.

Digital Planning and Surgical Simulation

Digital tools can help the team analyse the jaws, teeth and facial proportions.

They may be used to:

  • Measure skeletal relationships
  • Plan jaw movements
  • Evaluate the bite
  • Coordinate upper- and lower-jaw positions
  • Design surgical splints or guides
  • Explain the proposed treatment
  • Estimate possible changes in facial soft tissues

Digital predictions should not be presented as an exact forecast.

The final soft-tissue response can vary because of anatomy, healing, muscle function, swelling, scar tissue and individual biological response.

The surgeon and orthodontist use digital planning together with clinical judgement rather than relying on simulation alone.

Traditional Orthodontic-First Approach

In a traditional combined treatment plan, orthodontic treatment is performed before surgery.

The process may include:

  1. Aligning the teeth
  2. Correcting rotations and crowding
  3. Coordinating the dental arches
  4. Removing dental compensation
  5. Preparing the teeth to fit after the jaws are repositioned
  6. Performing jaw surgery
  7. Completing post-surgical orthodontic treatment
  8. Providing retainers

Before surgery, the bite may temporarily appear less comfortable or more pronounced because the teeth are being positioned for the planned jaw correction.

This is not necessarily a complication. It may be an expected stage of preparing the teeth to fit together after surgery.

The reason, expected changes and treatment sequence should be explained clearly before treatment begins.

Surgery-First Approach

In selected cases, jaw surgery may be performed before a long period of pre-surgical orthodontics.

Orthodontic treatment then continues after surgery.

Potential reasons for considering a surgery-first plan may include:

  • Earlier correction of the skeletal jaw relationship
  • Avoiding a long pre-surgical orthodontic phase
  • Selected tooth and bite relationships that permit surgical planning
  • A treatment plan supported by close surgical and orthodontic coordination

However, surgery-first treatment is not suitable for every patient.

It may not be appropriate when:

  • Tooth positions prevent a stable surgical bite
  • Significant dental alignment is required before surgery
  • The arches cannot be coordinated adequately
  • The planned surgical movement cannot be stabilised predictably
  • The patient cannot attend close follow-up appointments
  • The clinical team determines that pre-surgical orthodontics is necessary

The total treatment time is not guaranteed to be shorter. Additional orthodontics, bite adjustment or refinement may still be needed after surgery.

Traditional Approach vs Surgery-First Approach

TopicTraditional orthodontic-first approachSurgery-first approach
Initial stageOrthodontic preparation before surgerySurgery is performed before a long pre-surgical orthodontic phase
Bite before surgeryTeeth are prepared for the planned jaw positionExisting tooth positions must allow a workable surgical plan
Facial skeletal changeOccurs after pre-surgical orthodonticsOccurs earlier in the treatment sequence
Post-surgical orthodonticsUsually requiredUsually required and may be more intensive
SuitabilityApplicable to many combined casesLimited to carefully selected cases
PlanningRequires close orthodontic-surgical coordinationRequires particularly detailed coordination and prediction
Treatment durationDepends on complexity and tooth movementMay be shorter in selected cases but is not guaranteed
Main limitationLonger preparation before surgeryNot appropriate when the teeth cannot support a stable surgical plan

The appropriate sequence should be selected by the orthodontist and surgeon after reviewing the records and discussing the patient’s priorities.

Types of Orthognathic Jaw Surgery

The operation depends on which part of the jaw requires correction.

Upper-jaw surgery

Upper-jaw surgery may reposition the maxilla forward, backward, upward, downward or in a way that improves asymmetry.

It may be considered for selected cases involving:

  • Underdeveloped upper jaw
  • Vertical excess
  • Open bite
  • Crossbite
  • Facial asymmetry
  • Cleft-related jaw discrepancy
  • Significant upper-jaw position problems

The specific movement and surgical technique are determined by the surgeon.

Lower-jaw surgery

Lower-jaw surgery may move the mandible forward, backward or asymmetrically.

It may be considered for selected patients with:

  • Recessed lower jaw
  • Prominent lower jaw
  • Significant underbite
  • Significant overjet
  • Facial asymmetry
  • Skeletal bite discrepancy

The lower jaw contains nerves that provide sensation to the lower lip and chin. Possible temporary or persistent sensory changes should be discussed before surgery.

Double-jaw surgery

Double-jaw surgery involves repositioning both the upper and lower jaws.

It may be planned when moving only one jaw would not provide an appropriate bite, facial balance or functional correction.

The term “double-jaw surgery” does not describe one identical operation for every patient. The direction and amount of movement are personalised.

Chin surgery

Genioplasty changes the position or shape of the chin bone.

It may be performed alone in selected cases or combined with orthognathic surgery when chin position is part of the treatment objective.

Genioplasty does not correct the way the upper and lower teeth meet unless it is combined with procedures that address the jaws and bite.

Orthognathic Treatment Process at SWC Dental

1. Initial orthodontic assessment

The dentist or orthodontist evaluates the bite, tooth position, facial proportions and main concerns.

The aim is to determine whether the problem appears primarily dental, skeletal or combined.

2. Diagnostic records

Records may include:

  • Facial photographs
  • Intraoral photographs
  • Digital dental scans
  • Panoramic X-ray
  • Cephalometric X-ray
  • Three-dimensional imaging when indicated
  • Bite analysis
  • Relevant medical records

3. Coordinated treatment planning

The orthodontist and oral and maxillofacial surgeon review the diagnosis and possible approaches.

The discussion may include:

  • Orthodontics alone
  • Combined orthodontic and surgical treatment
  • Orthodontic camouflage
  • Traditional orthodontic-first treatment
  • Surgery-first treatment in selected cases
  • Which jaw or jaws may require correction
  • Expected limitations
  • Relevant risks
  • Alternative treatments

4. Dental preparation

Before surgery, the patient may need:

  • Teeth cleaning
  • Treatment of gum disease
  • Filling or repair of damaged teeth
  • Root canal treatment
  • Removal of selected teeth
  • Wisdom tooth assessment
  • Improved oral hygiene

The exact requirements depend on the dental condition and surgical plan.

5. Orthodontic preparation

In a traditional plan, braces or another orthodontic appliance are used to prepare the teeth for the new jaw relationship.

The duration varies substantially according to the starting condition and planned movement.

6. Pre-surgical review

Before surgery, the team confirms:

  • Tooth positions
  • Bite preparation
  • Jaw movements
  • Surgical plan
  • General health
  • Hospital arrangements
  • Anaesthesia assessment
  • Dietary preparation
  • Medication instructions
  • Post-operative support
  • Follow-up schedule

7. Jaw surgery

Orthognathic surgery is performed in an appropriate hospital setting under the care of the surgical and anaesthesia teams.

The jawbone is repositioned according to the surgical plan and commonly stabilised with plates and screws.

The specific procedure, hospital stay and anaesthesia plan depend on the operation and individual health.

8. Early recovery and surgical follow-up

After surgery, follow-up focuses on:

  • Wound healing
  • Swelling
  • Nutrition and hydration
  • Oral hygiene
  • Bite position
  • Elastic wear when prescribed
  • Sensation
  • Jaw movement
  • Signs of infection or other complications

9. Post-surgical orthodontics

Orthodontic treatment normally continues after the initial surgical healing stage.

The objectives may include:

  • Refining tooth positions
  • Settling the bite
  • Coordinating dental contacts
  • Adjusting elastics
  • Improving stability
  • Preparing for retainers

10. Retention and long-term review

After active orthodontic treatment, retainers help maintain the tooth positions.

Long-term follow-up may also evaluate the bite, jaw function, gum health and stability of the surgical correction.

Risks and Limitations of Jaw Surgery

Orthognathic surgery is a major treatment and has possible risks.

Potential risks and limitations may include:

  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Temporary difficulty eating or speaking
  • Limited mouth opening
  • Nausea or dehydration
  • Changes in sensation
  • Temporary or persistent numbness
  • Gum or tooth problems
  • Root damage
  • Damage to restorations
  • Sinus or nasal symptoms after upper-jaw surgery
  • Jaw-joint symptoms
  • Bite changes
  • Relapse or movement from the planned position
  • Need for additional orthodontic or surgical treatment
  • Plate or screw-related problems
  • Scarring, although many surgical incisions are made inside the mouth
  • Differences between predicted and actual facial changes
  • Anaesthesia-related complications

The relevance and likelihood of each risk depend on the operation, anatomy, health and treatment plan.

The surgeon should discuss the risks that apply to the individual patient before consent.

Changes in Sensation

Jaw surgery may affect nerves that provide sensation to areas such as the lower lip, chin, cheek, gums or palate.

Temporary numbness or altered sensation may occur after surgery.

Sensation may gradually improve, but recovery varies. In some cases, altered sensation can persist.

The individual risk depends on the procedure, anatomy, previous surgery and extent of movement.

Patients should receive procedure-specific information from the surgeon rather than relying on one general risk estimate.

Jaw Surgery and Temporomandibular Joint Symptoms

Some patients with a skeletal jaw discrepancy also have jaw-joint clicking, pain or limited movement.

Jaw surgery may change the bite and forces around the joints, but it should not be presented as a guaranteed cure for TMD symptoms.

Jaw-joint problems may improve, remain unchanged or occasionally become more noticeable.

Patients with significant symptoms should receive a specific TMD assessment as part of treatment planning.

Recovery After Orthognathic Surgery

Recovery differs according to:

  • Whether one or both jaws are treated
  • The direction and amount of jaw movement
  • Duration of surgery
  • General health
  • Age
  • Nutrition
  • Smoking or nicotine use
  • Oral hygiene
  • Individual healing response
  • Post-operative complications

Patients may experience swelling, bruising, congestion, jaw stiffness, altered sensation, fatigue and difficulty eating during the early recovery period.

The hospital and surgical team will provide personalised guidance regarding:

  • Pain management
  • Oral hygiene
  • Diet
  • Hydration
  • Medication
  • Elastics
  • Physical activity
  • Sleeping position
  • Returning to work or study
  • Driving
  • Follow-up appointments

A fixed recovery time should not be guaranteed before the operation has been planned.

Eating After Jaw Surgery

Dietary instructions depend on the operation and the surgeon’s protocol.

Patients may progress through stages such as:

  • Liquids
  • Smooth or blended foods
  • Very soft foods
  • Foods requiring minimal chewing
  • Gradual return to a more normal diet

Nutrition and hydration are important for healing.

Patients should not begin chewing hard foods or advance their diet earlier than advised, even if discomfort has improved.

A dietitian or hospital team may provide additional guidance for complex cases.

Oral Hygiene After Surgery

Maintaining oral hygiene helps reduce plaque accumulation and supports healing, but cleaning must be adapted to the surgical area.

Instructions may include:

  • Using a small or soft toothbrush
  • Cleaning accessible tooth surfaces carefully
  • Following instructions for mouth rinses
  • Avoiding direct trauma to wounds
  • Cleaning orthodontic appliances
  • Attending professional reviews
  • Reporting increasing swelling, discharge or unpleasant odour

The patient should follow the surgical team’s instructions rather than beginning strong mouthwash or aggressive cleaning independently.

When Should a Patient Seek Urgent Advice?

Contact the surgical team or seek urgent medical care for symptoms such as:

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Rapidly increasing swelling
  • Uncontrolled bleeding
  • Difficulty swallowing that is worsening
  • Severe dehydration
  • Persistent vomiting
  • High fever or feeling significantly unwell
  • Chest pain
  • Allergic reaction
  • Severe pain not responding as expected
  • Pus or significant discharge
  • Sudden change in the bite
  • Concern about the surgical wound
  • New or rapidly worsening neurological symptoms

The hospital team should provide direct contact instructions before discharge.

How Long Does the Complete Treatment Take?

Combined orthodontic and surgical treatment may extend over a substantial period.

The total timeline depends on:

  • Initial tooth alignment
  • Severity of the jaw discrepancy
  • Traditional or surgery-first sequence
  • Need for tooth extraction
  • Dental and gum health
  • Surgical scheduling
  • Healing
  • Post-surgical tooth movement
  • Missed appointments
  • Appliance breakage
  • Need for additional procedures
  • Individual biological response

An estimated timeline may be discussed after diagnostic records and surgical coordination, but it should not be guaranteed.

Will Jaw Surgery Change the Face?

Repositioning the jaws can change the relationship between the jaws, lips, chin, cheeks and nose.

The amount and type of visible change depend on:

  • Which jaw is moved
  • Direction and amount of movement
  • Existing facial proportions
  • Soft-tissue thickness
  • Muscle response
  • Healing
  • Swelling
  • Additional procedures
  • Individual anatomy

The primary plan should balance function, bite, skeletal correction and the patient’s informed goals.

Digital images should not be presented as a promise of an exact postoperative appearance.

Jaw Surgery in Rangsit at SWC Dental

SWC Dental provides orthodontic assessment and coordinated planning for patients with suspected skeletal bite discrepancies in Rangsit, Pathum Thani and nearby areas, including Thanyaburi, Khlong Luang, Lam Luk Ka and Don Mueang.

The initial assessment aims to determine whether the concern may be managed with:

  • Conventional braces
  • Invisalign clear aligners
  • Orthodontic camouflage
  • Combined orthodontics and jaw surgery
  • Traditional orthodontic-first treatment
  • A surgery-first approach in selected cases
  • Referral for hospital-based surgical assessment

Corrective jaw surgery requires coordination with an appropriately qualified oral and maxillofacial surgical team and an appropriate hospital setting.

Before beginning treatment, patients should receive information about:

  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment alternatives
  • Expected orthodontic stages
  • Proposed surgical involvement
  • Limitations
  • Possible risks
  • Estimated timeline
  • Hospital and surgical fees
  • Orthodontic fees
  • Follow-up requirements
  • Retainer care

Patients can meet the SWC Dental team, view the dental treatment prices or contact SWC Dental to arrange an initial orthodontic assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jaw Surgery

Is jaw surgery the same as braces?

No. Braces move the teeth within the jawbone, while orthognathic surgery repositions the jawbone. Many surgical patients require orthodontics as part of the same treatment plan.

Does every underbite require surgery?

No. Treatment depends on the severity of the skeletal discrepancy, tooth position, facial growth, gum and bone health and the patient’s goals. Mild cases may sometimes be managed orthodontically.

Can Invisalign be used before jaw surgery?

Clear aligners may be used in selected surgical-orthodontic plans, but they are not appropriate for every case. The appliance must provide the tooth control required for surgical preparation and post-surgical finishing.

What is double-jaw surgery?

Double-jaw surgery means that both the upper and lower jaws are repositioned. The direction and amount of movement are planned specifically for the patient.

Is surgery-first treatment better?

Not universally. Surgery-first treatment may offer advantages in selected cases, but many patients require orthodontic preparation before surgery to create a stable and workable bite.

Does surgery-first always shorten treatment?

No. It may reduce the pre-surgical orthodontic phase in suitable cases, but the total duration depends on post-surgical tooth movement, healing and treatment complexity.

At what age can jaw surgery be performed?

Treatment is commonly planned when relevant jaw growth is sufficiently complete, but there is no single age for every patient. Growth pattern, diagnosis and individual circumstances must be assessed.

Can jaw surgery treat jaw-joint pain?

Jaw surgery is not a guaranteed treatment for TMD. Joint symptoms may improve, remain unchanged or become more noticeable. A separate TMD assessment may be required.

Will the jaw be wired shut?

The method used to guide and stabilise the bite depends on the operation and surgeon. Plates, screws and orthodontic elastics may be used. Patients should ask the surgical team about the protocol planned for their operation.

Will I have scars on my face?

Many orthognathic procedures are performed through incisions inside the mouth. Small external incisions may occasionally be required depending on the procedure. The surgeon should explain the planned access.

How long will swelling last?

Swelling varies between patients and procedures. It often changes over the early recovery period and can take time to settle fully. The surgeon can provide a more individual expectation after confirming the operation.

When can I return to work or university?

This depends on the operation, recovery, type of work, travel and individual response. Patients should plan leave based on the surgical team’s advice rather than a fixed general estimate.

Will I need retainers after jaw surgery?

Most patients who receive orthodontic treatment require retainers after the active orthodontic phase. Retainers maintain tooth position but do not replace surgical follow-up.

Can jaw surgery results relapse?

Some change can occur during healing or over time. Stability depends on the original condition, surgical movement, bite, growth, soft tissues, joint condition and post-treatment care.

How much does orthognathic surgery cost?

The total cost may include orthodontic records, orthodontic treatment, imaging, surgeon fees, hospital fees, anaesthesia, laboratory items and follow-up care. An individual quotation requires coordinated assessment.

Book a Jaw Surgery Assessment

If you have a significant underbite, overbite, open bite, facial asymmetry or bite problem that may involve the jawbones, arrange an orthodontic assessment at SWC Dental in Rangsit.

The initial evaluation will help determine whether the concern may be treated with orthodontics alone or whether combined orthodontic and surgical planning should be considered.

View our dental treatment prices or contact SWC Dental to make an appointment through LINE Official @swcdental, call 02-531-3231 or 064-465-0565.

What is Orthognathic treatment?

Orthognathic treatment is an operation to reposition either the upper, lower, or both jaws, in individuals who have a large discrepancy between the size of the jaws in relation to each other, or in whom the jaws are abnormally positioned in relation to the base of skull.

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How are people who have these abnormal jaw relationships affected?

Individuals affected will usually have a malocclusion (poorly aligned teeth and bite) which mostly can be treated using orthodontics (braces) alone. However a small proportion of individuals with severe jaw discrepancies often have significant facial deformity and can be affected in many ways:

  1. High levels of psychological distress, affecting interpersonal relationships and quality of life.
  2. Difficulty eating certain foods
  3. Jaw muscle and jaw joint problem
  4. Speech difficulties

What causes a jaw discrepancy?

  • Without a specific cause
  • May be a family history
  • Result of a growth disturbance such as a jaw fracture in childhood or repair of a cleft lip or palate.
  • Can be associated with a syndrome such as hemifacial microsomia.

A jaw discrepancy may be detected in early childhood but usually becomes more marked during puberty. The unusual jaw growth usually ceases in late adolescence and treatment is directed towards correction of the deformity once growth is complete.

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Type of Orthognathic surgery approach

1.Surgery-First Approach

“Immediate improvement of facial esthetics, less treatment time”

Advantage of Surgery-First approach

  • Achieve immediate improvement in facial appearance
  • Reducing the overall treatment time

2.Traditional approach

3 stages involve

  1. Pre-surgical orthodontic treatment to relieve the dental compensations
  2. Orthognathic surgical procedure
  3. Post-surgical orthodontics to finish the case and settle the occlusion

The disadvantages of having orthodontic interventions both before and after orthognathic surgery

  • Long treatment time
  • Temporary worsening of facial appearance Patients become discouraged.