Surgical Orthodontics

Lee Orthodontics

David H. Lee, DDS, MSD

Board-Certified Orthodontists located in Concord, CA

If you have a jaw misalignment that interferes with the success of orthodontic braces or InvisalignⓇ treatments, you may be a candidate for surgical orthodontics. At Lee Orthodontics in Concord, California, Dr. David H. Lee offers surgical orthodontics procedures to correct your jaw position and enhance the treatment benefits of traditional braces or Invisalign. This procedure can also effectively treat common jaw-related issues, such as chronic pain and even sleep apnea. To learn more about the benefits of surgical orthodontics, schedule an appointment online or by phone today. We are happily accepting new patients in the East Bay area, including Concord, Pleasant Hill, Bay Point, Martinez, Walnut Creek, Pittsburg, Lafayette, Alamo, Benicia, Orinda, Danville, San Ramon, Hercules, Berkeley, and Oakland.

510-570-6244

Surgical Orthodontics Q & A

What is surgical orthodontics?

Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a procedure Dr. Lee uses to correct jaw misalignment issues and deformities, typically while you’re wearing braces or using an Invisalign treatment plan.

The benefit of this type of surgery is that it can significantly improve your ability to talk, chew food, and breathe. The surgery is also effective at improving the appearance of your facial features by moving your jaw into the proper position.

When do I need surgical orthodontics?

Dr. Lee may recommend surgical orthodontics to straighten your jaw before or while you’re receiving other orthodontic treatments, such as traditional braces, Incognito™ braces, or Invisalign. Surgery may be necessary if these orthodontic therapies alone can’t adjust your jaw positioning. The surgery ensures orthodontic treatments are more effective and your teeth can ultimately move into the proper position.

You may be a good candidate for surgical orthodontics if you’re older than 18 and your jaw has stopped growing. Dr. Lee evaluates your orthodontic issues and medical history to determine if this type of surgery could be an effective treatment.

Dr. Lee may also recommend surgical orthodontics if you have:

Chronic jaw pain
Birth defects
Facial injuries
Receding lower jaw
Protruding jaw
Sleep apnea

What can I expect with a surgical orthodontics procedure?

Dr. Lee performs the surgery under general anesthesia. The length of the procedure depends on the severity of your jaw issues. He can move your jaw forward or backward, and raise or lower the bone to achieve jaw stability and an improved bite.

Following surgery, you may need up to two weeks of recovery before you can return to your regular activities. It can take up to eight weeks for your jaw to heal completely. During the healing process, Dr. Lee continues to make adjustments to your bite.

If you wear braces, Dr. Lee may remove them six to 12 months following your surgery. You can expect to have not only straighter teeth, but should also be free of jaw pain and any movement limitations you experienced before your orthodontic treatments.

To find out if you’re a candidate for surgical orthodontics, schedule a consultation with Dr. Lee online or by calling the office directly. We are happily accepting new patients in the East Bay area, including Concord, Pleasant Hill, Bay Point, Martinez, Walnut Creek, Pittsburg, Lafayette, Alamo, Benicia, Orinda, Danville, San Ramon, Hercules, Berkeley, and Oakland.