When Is Orthodontic Surgery Needed in Combination with Braces?

For most patients, braces or clear aligners alone are enough to correct misaligned teeth and improve their smile. However, in certain cases where jaw alignment plays a significant role, orthognathic surgery (jaw surgery) may be necessary in conjunction with braces to achieve optimal functional and aesthetic results.

At Broad Street Braces in Philadelphia, Dr. Neil works closely with leading oral and maxillofacial surgeons to develop personalized treatment plans for patients requiring this combined approach. By pairing orthodontic treatment with surgical expertise, patients can enjoy not only a straighter smile but also a properly aligned bite and improved facial balance.

When Is Orthognathic Surgery Necessary?

Orthognathic surgery may be recommended when orthodontics alone cannot correct severe jaw misalignments. These conditions often include:

• Severe underbites or overbites where the upper and lower jaws do not meet properly.
• Open bites, where the front teeth do not touch even when the mouth is closed.
• Crossbites that affect both the bite and jaw symmetry.
• Facial imbalance, such as receding chins or asymmetrical jaws.
• Sleep apnea or airway issues linked to jaw position.
• Difficulty chewing, speaking, or breathing due to jaw misalignment.

According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, orthognathic surgery can significantly improve function and aesthetics, and in many cases, it enhances long-term oral health by reducing strain on teeth and joints.

How Orthodontics and Surgery Work Together

Dr. Neil and the Broad Street Braces team collaborate with skilled surgeons in Philadelphia to ensure seamless care. Here’s what patients can expect:

• Consultation & Planning – Dr. Neil evaluates the teeth and jaw relationship, then coordinates with a maxillofacial surgeon to create a customized treatment plan.
• Pre-Surgical Orthodontics – Braces are applied and typically worn for 6–18 months before surgery. This phase aligns the teeth so they will fit together properly after the jaw is repositioned.
• Surgical Procedure – Once the teeth are in the correct pre-surgical position, the patient undergoes orthognathic surgery while still wearing braces. The surgery repositions the jaw to achieve proper alignment and facial balance.
• Immediate Improvement – Patients often notice a significant difference in their bite and appearance right after the procedure.
• Post-Surgical Orthodontics – After recovery, Dr. Neil fine-tunes the bite with braces for several more months. Once the finishing adjustments are complete, braces are removed, revealing a stable, functional, and beautiful smile.

Local Expertise and Trusted Partnerships

Dr. Neil is proud to partner with highly respected orthognathic surgeons in Philadelphia, including teams at the University of Pennsylvania, Jefferson Hospital, and Temple University Hospital. This collaborative approach ensures patients receive the highest level of care at every stage of their treatment journey.

Patients in Center City, South Philly, and across the Philadelphia metro area trust Broad Street Braces not only for orthodontic expertise but also for the comprehensive care required in complex cases.

The Benefits of Braces Plus Orthognathic Surgery

While orthognathic surgery may sound intimidating, the results can be life-changing:

• Improved bite and chewing function
• Enhanced facial balance and symmetry
• Relief from jaw pain or TMJ-related issues
• Better breathing and reduced sleep apnea symptoms
• Increased self-confidence with a more harmonious appearance

Schedule a Orthodontic Consultation in Philadelphia

If you’ve been told that your orthodontic issues may involve jaw alignment, you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Broad Street Braces, Dr. Neil works closely with Philadelphia’s top surgical teams to provide safe, effective, and transformative treatment.

Contact our office today to schedule your consultation and learn whether orthodontic surgery combined with braces is the right path for you.