Surgical Orthodontics in Everett, WA
Orthodontic treatment can do amazing things for your smile, but in some cases, braces or Invisalign alone may not fully correct a more complex jaw alignment issue. That’s where surgical orthodontics comes in.
At Advanced Orthodontics in Everett, WA, Dr. Lewandowski provides expert orthodontic care for patients with severe bite or jaw concerns, including those who may benefit from orthognathic surgery (also known as surgical orthodontics). This specialized approach combines orthodontic treatment with jaw surgery to improve both function and facial balance.
If you’ve been struggling with bite discomfort, jaw misalignment, or facial asymmetry, surgical orthodontics may be the solution that helps you achieve long-term comfort and confidence.
What Is Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics is more commonly referred to as orthognathic surgery. It is used to correct significant jaw alignment problems that cannot be resolved with orthodontic appliances alone.
This type of treatment is typically recommended to improve:
- Jaw positioning
- Bite disorders
- Facial symmetry
- Long-term oral function
Surgical orthodontics requires close collaboration between an orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Dr. Lewandowski works as part of a coordinated team to ensure every step of treatment is planned with precision and care.
Patients often benefit from surgical orthodontics in multiple ways, including improved:
- Speaking
- Chewing
- Breathing
- Facial appearance
Who Is a Candidate for Orthognathic Surgery?
Many people wonder: “Do I really need jaw surgery?”
Orthognathic surgery is typically recommended for adult patients who have reached physical maturity and have:
- Severe bite misalignment
- Jaw discrepancies
- Facial balance concerns
- Difficulty chewing or speaking comfortably
Jaw growth is usually completed around:
- Age 16 for females
- Age 18 for males
Growth must be finished before surgery is performed to ensure stable, lasting results.
However, orthodontic preparation, such as braces, can often begin one to two years earlier, even before full jaw growth is complete.
How Does Surgical Orthodontic Treatment Work?
In certain complex cases, braces alone may not fully correct the bite. In fact, as teeth are moved into alignment, the bite may appear to worsen temporarily because the underlying jaw position is still off.
During routine orthodontic adjustments, Dr. Lewandowski carefully monitors progress. If it becomes clear that jaw alignment is the main issue, orthognathic surgery may be recommended.
Orthognathic surgery repositions the jaws so the teeth can fit together properly. Once the jaws are aligned, orthodontic treatment can finish the smile with greater accuracy and stability.
What Happens During Orthognathic Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery is performed by an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon and may take several hours, depending on the complexity of the case.
The surgery may involve the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both.
Lower jaw surgery may include:
- Separating the jawbone behind the teeth
- Moving the tooth-bearing portion forward or backward
Upper jaw surgery may involve:
- Raising or lowering the jaw
- Repositioning it forward or backward
In some cases, additional bone may be added or removed to improve stability and alignment. Facial bones may also be augmented or repositioned to support proper function and balance.
Dr. Lewandowski coordinates every step of planning, so the orthodontic and surgical phases work together seamlessly.
How Long Is Recovery After Jaw Surgery?
Recovery is an important part of the process, and most patients are pleasantly surprised by how manageable it can be.
Typical recovery timeline:
- About 2 weeks before returning to school or work
- 4–8 weeks for complete healing
- Minor orthodontic bite adjustments after surgery
- Braces are usually removed 6–12 months after surgery
Once braces come off, patients will wear a retainer to maintain their new smile and jaw alignment long-term.
Benefits of Surgical Orthodontics
For the right candidate, orthognathic surgery can be truly life-changing.
Patients often experience:
- Improved bite comfort
- Better chewing and speaking ability
- Easier breathing
- Enhanced facial harmony
- Long-term stability that braces alone cannot provide
Surgical orthodontics is a powerful solution for patients who want both functional improvement and confident aesthetics.
Ready to Learn More About Surgical Orthodontics in Everett?
If you’ve been told you may need jaw surgery, or you’ve noticed ongoing bite or jaw concerns, Dr. Lewandowski and the team at Advanced Orthodontics in Everett, WA are here to help.
We’ll guide you through every step with clarity, compassion, and expert planning. Schedule a consultation today to find out if surgical orthodontics is the right path toward a healthier, more balanced smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Considering surgical orthodontics can feel like a big step, and it’s completely normal to have questions. Many adults in Everett, WA, search for answers about jaw surgery, bite correction, and what the process looks like before making a decision. Below are some of the most common questions patients ask about orthodontic surgery at Advanced Orthodontics.
How do I know if I need jaw surgery or just braces?
The best way to know is through a detailed orthodontic evaluation. Some bite problems can be corrected with braces alone, while others are caused by jaw alignment issues that require surgical support. Dr. Lewandowski will help determine the right approach for your smile.
Is orthognathic surgery only for cosmetic reasons?
No. While jaw surgery can improve facial balance, it is most often recommended to correct functional concerns such as difficulty chewing, speaking, breathing, or severe bite misalignment.
Will I need braces before and after jaw surgery?
Yes, most patients wear braces before surgery to prepare the teeth and continue orthodontic treatment afterward to fine-tune the bite. This combined approach helps ensure stable, long-lasting results.
How long does the full surgical orthodontic process take?
While the surgical recovery may be only a few weeks, the entire treatment process, including orthodontics before and after surgery, often takes 18–24 months, depending on the complexity of the case.
Does insurance cover orthognathic surgery?
Coverage varies depending on your insurance plan and whether the surgery is considered medically necessary. Our team can help you understand your benefits and guide you through the financial process.