When jaw alignment issues go beyond what braces or aligners alone can fix, surgical orthodontics offers a path to lasting correction and improved quality of life. At Sakowitz Smiles, we provide expert orthodontic care and partner closely with experienced oral surgeons across Orlando, FL to deliver coordinated treatment for complex cases.
Whether you’re struggling with bite issues, facial asymmetry, or jaw pain, our team can help guide you through the surgical orthodontic process with clarity and confidence.
What Is Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics — also known as orthognathic surgery — is a specialized treatment used to correct severe jaw discrepancies that affect your bite, function, and facial harmony. While orthodontic appliances like braces and aligners can straighten teeth, they rely on properly aligned jaws to function optimally. In cases where the upper and lower jaws don’t align naturally, surgery may be necessary to reposition them.
Surgical orthodontics combines orthodontic treatment (before and after surgery) with oral or maxillofacial surgery to achieve a healthier, more functional smile.
When Is Surgical Orthodontics Needed?
Surgical orthodontic treatment is typically reserved for teen or adult patients whose jawbones have finished growing — usually around age 16 for females and 18 for males. Your orthodontist may recommend this option if:
- Braces or aligners alone cannot correct your bite
- You have difficulty chewing, biting, or speaking
- You experience jaw pain or joint discomfort (TMJ issues)
- Your upper and lower jaws are misaligned
- You have an open bite, underbite, or severe overbite
- Your facial appearance is affected by jaw positioning
- You’ve experienced facial trauma or congenital jaw issues
During your consultation at Sakowitz Smiles, we’ll perform a full orthodontic evaluation, including X-rays and 3D imaging, to assess your bite and determine if surgery is the right path forward.
Conditions That May Require Surgical Orthodontics
Open Bite
When the upper and lower front teeth don’t meet when the mouth is closed, leading to problems with chewing and speech.
Underbite
Occurs when the lower jaw protrudes beyond the upper jaw, often resulting in difficulty biting and facial imbalance.
Overbite or Deep Bite
A significant vertical overlap of the front teeth, which can contribute to wear on the teeth and TMJ discomfort.
Crossbite
When the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth, leading to asymmetrical wear or jaw shifting.
Jaw Asymmetry or Facial Imbalance
Discrepancies in jaw size or position can create noticeable asymmetry in the face and may affect oral function.
What to Expect from the Surgical Orthodontic Process
Pre-Surgical Orthodontic Treatment
Before surgery, you’ll wear braces or aligners for 12–18 months to align your teeth properly. This ensures your bite fits correctly once the jaws are repositioned.
Jaw Surgery
Once your teeth are in the correct position, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon performs the jaw surgery. This is typically done under general anesthesia in a hospital setting.
Recovery Period
Recovery usually involves 1–2 weeks off from work or school, followed by a soft food diet and gradual return to normal function. Swelling and soreness are normal and improve over time.
Post-Surgical Orthodontics
After healing, you’ll return to Sakowitz Smiles to complete orthodontic treatment and fine-tune your bite for long-term stability.
Benefits of Surgical Orthodontics
- Improved bite function and chewing efficiency
- Relief from TMJ pain or jaw discomfort
- Better speech clarity and articulation
- Enhanced facial balance and profile
- Easier maintenance of oral hygiene
- Long-term stability and improved quality of life
Will I Still Need Braces or Invisalign?
Yes. Orthodontic appliances like braces or Invisalign are essential for both the pre-surgical and post-surgical phases of treatment. They ensure your teeth are aligned correctly before surgery and refined afterward.
At Sakowitz Smiles, we guide you through every stage of care — from initial planning to final results.
Is Surgical Orthodontics Painful?
The surgery itself is performed under general anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Post-surgical discomfort is expected but manageable with proper care and guidance from your surgical team.
Most patients find the long-term benefits far outweigh the temporary recovery period.
Why Choose Sakowitz Smiles for Surgical Orthodontics in Orlando, FL?
Surgical orthodontics requires experience, precision, and collaboration. At Sakowitz Smiles, we provide comprehensive care with a patient-first approach.
- Board-certified expertise — Dr. Jason Sakowitz brings advanced training and experience in surgical orthodontic cases.
- Collaborative care — We work closely with trusted oral surgeons throughout Central Florida.
- Modern diagnostics — Digital imaging and 3D planning support accurate outcomes.
- Clear communication — We guide you through timelines, expectations, and recovery.
- Convenient locations — Offices in Lake Nona, Dr. Phillips, and Winter Garden.
Start Your Surgical Orthodontic Journey in Orlando, FL
If you’re dealing with jaw alignment issues, chronic bite problems, or facial imbalance, surgical orthodontics may be the solution you’ve been waiting for.
At Sakowitz Smiles, we provide expert orthodontic care and trusted surgical coordination to help patients achieve lasting results.
Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward improved function, comfort, and confidence.