What Is Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics involves correcting jaw irregularities that affect the bite, facial appearance, or overall function. These irregularities may be due to genetics, uneven growth, or trauma. When the upper and lower jaws don’t align properly, it can lead to issues such as difficulty chewing, breathing problems, speech challenges, TMJ discomfort, or noticeable facial imbalance.
Surgery is usually performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, while orthodontic treatment before and after surgery ensures the teeth are aligned correctly within the new jaw position.
Who Needs Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics is typically recommended for adults and older teens who have completed jaw growth—usually around age 16 for girls and 18 for boys. You might be a candidate if you have:
- A severe overbite or underbite
- A crossbite or open bite that can’t be corrected with braces alone
- A facial imbalance, such as a protruding jaw or small chin
- Difficulty chewing, biting, or speaking
- Obstructive sleep apnea related to jaw positioning
During your consultation, Dr. Ramírez will evaluate your bite, facial structure, and digital imaging to determine if surgical orthodontics is the right solution for you.
How Does the Process Work?
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Surgical orthodontic treatment is a multi-step process that starts with braces or clear aligners to align your teeth in preparation for surgery. This phase usually lasts 12 to 18 months. Once the teeth are positioned correctly, the surgical team will perform jaw surgery to reposition the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both—depending on your case.
After surgery, you’ll typically continue orthodontic treatment for a few months to fine-tune your bite and ensure long-term stability. The entire process may take around two years from start to finish.
We’ll coordinate every step with your oral surgeon, and our team will be there to guide you before and after the procedure, answer your questions, and ensure you feel comfortable throughout the journey.
What Are the Benefits of Jaw Surgery?
While the idea of surgery may seem overwhelming, the long-term benefits are often life-changing. Surgical orthodontics can:
- Improve bite function and chewing efficiency
- Alleviate jaw pain or TMJ symptoms.
- Enhance facial symmetry and aesthetics.
- Correct speech issues related to jaw alignment.
- Improve breathing and sleep qualit.y
Most importantly, it can give patients a level of comfort and confidence they’ve never experienced before—both in how their bite functions and how they feel about their smile.
A Team You Can Trust
Surgical orthodontics requires a high level of precision, planning, and collaboration between your orthodontist and oral surgeon. At Sonríe Orthodontics, Dr. Ramírez works with a network of highly skilled specialists to ensure a smooth, well-coordinated experience.
We’ll take time to explain every part of your treatment, walk you through what to expect, and answer any concerns you may have. Our bilingual team is always available to support you throughout the process.
If you’ve been told you need jaw surgery—or if you’re experiencing bite or jaw issues that affect your quality of life—schedule a complimentary consultation with Sonríe Orthodontics. As your trusted Orthodontist in Hialeah, FL, Dr. Ramírez will evaluate your needs and help you understand your treatment options with honesty, clarity, and compassion.
We’re here to help you confidently take the next step and guide you toward a healthier, more functional smile.
ORTHODONTIST IN HIALEAH!
Emergency Care FAQs
What qualifies as an orthodontic emergency?
- True orthodontic emergencies are rare, but severe pain, injury to your mouth, or a broken appliance causing significant discomfort should be addressed immediately. If you’re unsure, contact our office for guidance.
What should I do if I have a loose bracket or wire?
- If a bracket or wire becomes loose but isn’t painful, you can temporarily cover it with orthodontic wax until your next visit. If it’s causing discomfort, call us so we can schedule a repair.
What qualifies as an orthodontic emergency?
True orthodontic emergencies are rare, but severe pain, injury to your mouth, or a broken appliance causing significant discomfort should be addressed immediately. If you’re unsure, contact our office for guidance.
What qualifies as an orthodontic emergency?
True orthodontic emergencies are rare, but severe pain, injury to your mouth, or a broken appliance causing significant discomfort should be addressed immediately. If you’re unsure, contact our office for guidance.
Let’s Take the First Step—Together
If you’re wondering whether it’s time for your child to start braces, we invite you to come in for a complimentary consultation. We’ll give you honest answers, clear next steps, and a treatment plan built entirely around your child’s needs.
If you’re looking for a trusted Orthodontist in Hialeah, FL, Sonríe Orthodontics is here for your family. Let’s build a smile your child will be proud of—starting today.
See What Our Patients Say
At Sonríe Orthodontics in Hialeah, FL, we love creating confident smiles! Hear from our happy patients about their journey with us.
Dr. Carolina Ramírez and her team are very professional, kind and very caring. We are very happy with the results, which have been wonderful, an incredible change in my child’s smile, I sincerely recommend them.
Yanet Lopez
