Surgical Orthodontics in Iowa City

Dr. Suzanne Stock provides combined orthodontics/orthognathic surgery treatment plans to patients in Iowa City, Fairfield, Washington, and Williamsburg. Contact us to learn more or schedule an appointment.

The purpose of orthodontic treatment is to straighten your teeth and align your bite. For many patients, treatments such as braces or Invisalign may be all that is needed to achieve the desired results. But in other cases surgery is the only way to make the necessary corrections.

Orthognathic surgery refers to procedures done to correct the shape or alignment of the jaw. There are many different types of orthognathic surgeries that can be performed on the upper or lower jaw, sometimes both. In some cases the upper or lower jaw will need to be brought forward, moved back, or centered.

Sometimes the jaw simply doesn’t grow into the proper shape. It can be the result of sleep habits, genetics, or injury. But if the jaw is out of alignment, it is not always possible to get the teeth and bite to line up properly by moving the teeth alone. A misaligned bite can interfere with chewing, talking, breathing, and sleeping. It can cause the teeth to become damaged or worn down prematurely.

There are a variety of benefits to undergoing orthognathic surgery, such as: 

• Better dental health. When your surgery and orthodontic treatment are complete, the results will help your teeth last longer and stay in better condition. You only get one set of permanent teeth in your lifetime, and getting the recommended surgery can help you keep them healthy. 
• More effective orthodontic treatment. You may find that orthodontic treatment like braces is ineffective without surgical intervention. Your orthodontic treatment could be a waste of time and money if you don’t get the surgery your orthodontist recommends. 
  
• Improved appearance. Orthognathic surgery can improve the shape of your face by properly aligning your jaw.

Dr. Stock will work closely with an oral surgeon who will perform the surgery. They will work together as a team to plan your surgery to ensure the necessary adjustments are made for a successful outcome.

Oral surgeons usually do not have to wire a patient’s jaw shut after surgery. A combination of plates and screws can be used instead to help keep the jaw stable while allowing you to open and close your mouth. You may still need to be careful about what you eat and how you move your jaw during your recovery time.

In most cases orthognathic surgery is performed under general anesthesia in a hospital setting. Under general anesthesia you will be completely asleep and won’t remember anything about the procedure. You may stay overnight in the hospital depending on your needs.

Most patients will still need orthodontic treatment in addition to orthognathic surgery. The usual procedure is to get braces put on first so that Dr. Stock can get your teeth into the best possible position before your surgery. You may need some additional adjustments after your surgery as well.

Are you looking for an orthodontist in Iowa City, Fairfield, Washington, or Williamsburg, IA? Call 319-338-8658 to schedule an appointment at one of our four locations in Eastern Iowa.