Orthognathic Surgery: When Braces Alone Aren’t Enough
Sometimes, straight teeth alone don’t solve the full puzzle. If your jaws aren’t properly aligned, you can experience issues far beyond cosmetic concerns—things like difficulty chewing, jaw pain, speech problems, or even sleep disturbances. That’s where orthognathic surgery, or corrective jaw surgery in Freeport IL and Monroe WI, comes in.
This isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about rebuilding function, comfort, and confidence—and when done right, it can be life-changing.
Let’s take a closer look at what this treatment involves, who it helps, and what you can expect if jaw surgery becomes part of your orthodontic plan at Walker & Wright Orthodontics.
What Is Orthognathic Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery is a corrective procedure that repositions one or both jaws to improve the way they fit together. It’s typically recommended when the upper and lower jaws are significantly misaligned, either due to genetics, developmental issues, or injury.
Unlike braces or aligners that move the teeth, jaw surgery targets the foundation—the bone structure your teeth sit in.
This procedure is done in close collaboration between your orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, ensuring that both function and facial balance are carefully planned and optimized.
Signs You May Need Jaw Surgery
Not everyone needs surgery to improve their bite. But when misalignment is significant, orthodontic appliances alone often can’t create a stable, functional result.
Here are some signs that might point to a need for orthognathic surgery:
- Severe overbite, underbite, or open bite
- Difficulty chewing or biting food
- Jaw pain, popping, or fatigue
- Breathing problems
- Chronic mouth breathing
- Facial asymmetry or imbalance
- Speech issues related to jaw position
If any of these symptoms sound familiar, you’re not alone—and you may be a strong candidate for jaw correction.
How Orthognathic Treatment Works
Corrective jaw surgery is a multi-step process, but every phase is designed to get you to a healthier, more functional result.
Phase 1: Orthodontic Preparation
Before surgery, we’ll use braces to align your teeth within each jaw so that, post-surgery, they fit together correctly. This usually takes 12–18 months.Phase 2: Surgical Realignment
The surgery itself is performed in a hospital by a surgical specialist. The surgeon repositions the jawbone(s) and secures them in place with small plates and screws. You’ll likely spend a couple of nights recovering before heading home.Phase 3: Post-Surgical Orthodontics
After healing, we’ll fine-tune your bite with braces or aligners to lock in the final result. This phase typically lasts 6–9 months, depending on your case.
Recovery and Results
Initial healing usually takes 2–3 weeks, with most patients returning to school or work within that time. Full healing continues over a few months, and during this time, we’re closely monitoring your progress.
Most patients report:
- Improved bite function
- Easier chewing and breathing
- Reduced jaw tension or pain
- Clearer speech
- Better sleep
- Increased confidence in their facial profile
It’s not just about what you see in the mirror—it’s how your jaw feels when it works the way it’s supposed to.
Who’s a Good Candidate?
Ideal candidates for orthognathic surgery are:
- In good general health
- Fully grown (usually late teens or older)
- Experiencing a significant jaw discrepancy
- Committed to a long-term treatment process
- Interested in improving both function and aesthetics
We’ll use 3D imaging, X-rays, and bite analysis to determine whether jaw surgery is right for you. And if there’s a non-surgical path that could achieve your goals, we’ll explore that too.
Is Orthognathic Surgery Right for You?
We know the idea of surgery can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to make sure you’re informed, supported, and confident every step of the way. Orthognathic treatment is never rushed, and our approach is always customized to your anatomy, goals, and comfort level.
If you’ve been dealing with bite issues, jaw pain, or facial imbalance that orthodontics alone can’t fix, orthognathic surgery could be the long-term solution that restores your quality of life.
Schedule a consultation today at one of our locations in Freeport IL or Monroe WI, and let’s explore whether jaw correction is the right step toward a healthier, balanced smile.
