Surgically assisted orthodontics combines orthodontic treatment with minor surgical intervention to address complex alignment and bite issues that may not be correctable with braces or aligners alone. At The Wireworks, our Toronto – Yorkdale and Barrie – Downtown clinics offer comprehensive, personalized care for surgically assisted cases, helping patients achieve precise, long-lasting results. Whether you have severe crowding, a misaligned jaw, or other significant dental concerns, our expert team is here to provide a solution that meets your unique needs.
What Is Surgically Assisted Orthodontics?
Surgically assisted orthodontics is a specialized treatment approach for cases that require both surgical and orthodontic intervention. In these cases, minor surgical procedures—typically performed by an oral surgeon—assist in creating the ideal environment for orthodontic adjustments. This approach is often recommended for patients with severe malocclusions, impacted teeth, or skeletal discrepancies where traditional braces alone may be insufficient to achieve the desired outcome.
When Is Surgically Assisted Orthodontics Recommended?
Surgically assisted orthodontics may be recommended in the following situations:
- Severe Overcrowding: When there isn’t enough space in the jaw to accommodate all teeth, surgical intervention can create room, allowing teeth to be aligned correctly.
- Impacted Teeth: Teeth that are trapped below the gum line, like impacted canines, may need surgical assistance to guide them into proper position.
- Jaw Discrepancies: Cases involving a misaligned jaw or facial asymmetry may require a combined orthodontic and surgical approach to correct the issue.
- Advanced Bite Issues: Severe overbites, underbites, or crossbites that cannot be fully corrected with orthodontics alone may benefit from surgical assistance.
Benefits of Surgically Assisted Orthodontics
For patients with complex cases, surgically assisted orthodontics offers several benefits:
- Improved Aesthetic Results: Combining orthodontics with surgical intervention helps achieve facial symmetry and alignment that might not be possible with braces or aligners alone.
- Enhanced Functionality: By correcting underlying jaw or skeletal issues, surgically assisted orthodontics can improve overall oral function, enhancing chewing, speaking, and even breathing.
- Reduced Treatment Time: For some cases, surgically assisted orthodontics can expedite treatment, allowing patients to achieve their goals faster than with orthodontics alone.
- Long-Lasting Results: Addressing structural issues with surgical assistance leads to more stable, enduring results, reducing the likelihood of relapse or additional treatment.
How Surgically Assisted Orthodontics Works
Here’s an overview of the steps involved in surgically assisted orthodontic treatment:
- Consultation and Assessment: Your orthodontist at The Wireworks will conduct a comprehensive assessment, which may include X-rays, 3D imaging, and other diagnostic tools to understand your specific needs.
- Treatment Planning: If surgery is recommended, we’ll work closely with an oral surgeon to develop a treatment plan tailored to your case. This plan will outline the orthodontic and surgical steps required to achieve optimal results.
- Orthodontic Preparation: In some cases, braces or aligners may be placed before surgery to begin the alignment process and prepare the mouth for the surgical procedure.
Surgical Intervention: Your oral surgeon will perform the necessary surgical procedure, which may involve creating space, repositioning teeth, or adjusting jaw alignment, depending on your treatment plan. - Orthodontic Completion: After surgery, your orthodontic treatment continues as your teeth are guided into their final positions. Follow-up appointments ensure the best outcome and track progress
What to Expect During Surgically Assisted Orthodontic Treatment
Surgically assisted orthodontics is a multi-step process that requires careful planning and collaboration between your orthodontist and oral surgeon. Here’s what patients can generally expect throughout the journey:
- Pre-Surgical Phase: Before surgery, you may need orthodontic appliances to start the alignment process. Regular check-ups ensure that your teeth are ready for the next phase.
- Surgical Phase: The surgical procedure is typically done on an outpatient basis, with most patients able to go home the same day. Local or general anesthesia will be used to ensure comfort during the procedure.
- Post-Surgical Phase: After surgery, there may be a short recovery period during which swelling and mild discomfort are common. We’ll provide you with instructions for managing recovery and resuming orthodontic treatment.
- Continued Orthodontic Adjustments: Once healed, you’ll continue with orthodontic adjustments to ensure that your teeth and jaw align as planned. Regular appointments with our team will keep treatment on track.
Frequently Asked Questions About Surgically Assisted Orthodontics
The surgery itself is performed under anesthesia to ensure comfort. Some post-operative discomfort is normal, but it can be managed with prescribed pain relievers and typically subsides within a few days.
The total duration varies based on each patient’s needs. However, surgically assisted orthodontics can sometimes reduce overall treatment time compared to traditional orthodontics alone.
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, but these are minimized when performed by an experienced oral surgeon. We take every precaution to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the process.
Yes, adults are often ideal candidates for surgically assisted orthodontics, especially for correcting complex alignment issues or structural discrepancies.
Why Choose The Wireworks for Surgically Assisted Orthodontics?
At The Wireworks, we bring expertise and collaboration to every surgically assisted orthodontic case, working with trusted oral surgeons to ensure your treatment is safe, efficient, and successful. Our advanced diagnostic tools, patient-centered approach, and commitment to precision make us a top choice for complex orthodontic needs in Toronto – Yorkdale and Barrie – Downtown. We’re here to provide the guidance, care, and support you need to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
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