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Your orthodontist assesses your bite and facial structure to identify any discrepancies.
This includes a thorough examination and may involve X-rays or 3D scans. Next, you discuss your concerns, goals, and options.
Orthognathic Surgery
5.0
Dental clinic in Shoreditch, London
Combining orthodontics with surgery for an enhanced quality of life for patients who need more than braces alone.
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What is Orthognathic Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery, realigns the upper and lower jaws to improve bite, facial harmony, and general mouth function.
The primary aim is to improve bite function and facial balance, along with overall oral health, which are outcomes that orthodontic treatment alone cannot achieve in cases of significant skeletal discrepancy.
While orthognathic surgery addresses functional problems (such as overbites, underbites, and jaw asymmetry), cosmetic jaw surgery is often elective and primarily focuses on appearance.
Cosmetic procedures can reshape the jaw for aesthetic reasons, but they don't always address issues related to chewing, speech, or long-term dental health.
Orthognathic surgery is a collaborative procedure that involves both an orthodontist and a jaw surgeon.
Braces or aligners are typically used before and after surgery to ensure the teeth are properly aligned, while the surgical procedure realigns the jaws for both function and facial harmony.
Conditions Treated by Orthognathic Surgery
Sometimes referred to as facial-driven orthodontics, orthognathic surgery corrects skeletal abnormalities affecting the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both.
Conditions | Description |
|---|---|
Skeletal Class II (Retrusive Lower Jaw) | This occurs when the lower jaw is positioned too far back relative to the upper jaw. It can lead to an overbite, difficulty chewing, and strain on the jaw joints. Surgery can bring the lower jaw forward, improving bite alignment, jaw function, and facial profile. |
Skeletal Class III (Protrusive Lower Jaw / Small Upper Jaw) | In this condition, the lower jaw may be too prominent or the upper jaw too small, causing an underbite. Patients can experience issues with chewing, speech difficulties, and uneven wear on teeth. Surgery corrects the jaw positions, creating a more balanced bite and facial appearance. |
Vertical Discrepancies (Open Bite / Long Face) | When the upper and lower teeth do not meet properly, it can affect chewing, speech, and aesthetics. Surgery realigns the jaws vertically to improve bite function and facial proportion. |
Facial Asymmetry | Uneven jaw growth or trauma can create a lopsided appearance and bite problems. Orthognathic surgery can reposition the jaws to achieve symmetry and restore proper function. |
Sleep-Disordered Breathing / Obstructive Sleep Apnea | Jaw misalignment can contribute to restricted airways during sleep Certain jaw advancement procedures can open up the passages and allow air to flow more freely, cut down on snoring, and help patients sleep much better. |
5.0
Dental clinic in Shoreditch, London
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What Is The Cost Of Orthognathic Surgery?
The cost varies depending on the complexity of your case.
Orthodontic treatment typically starts from £7,000, with jaw surgery fees discussed separately with your surgeon.
Some insurance providers may partially cover the procedure if medically necessary.
Always check with your insurance for eligibility and funding options.
5.0
Dental clinic in Shoreditch, London
Orthognathic Surgery Procedure
Orthognathic surgery involves careful planning and collaboration between the orthodontist and oral and maxillofacial surgeon. At The Modern Dentist, your treatment is fully customised to your needs, ensuring a safe and predictable outcome.
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Types of Orthognathic Surgery
The type of jaw surgery required depends on which jaw is responsible for the skeletal imbalance.
Treatment combines orthodontics with jaw surgery, coordinated between an orthodontist and a maxillofacial surgeon.
At The Modern Dentist, we provide the following types of jaw surgery:
Lower jaw surgery (Bilateral Sagittal Split Osteotomy – BSSO): Corrects a lower jaw that is too far back or forward, improving bite alignment and facial balance.
Upper jaw surgery (Le Fort I advancement): Repositions the upper jaw to address open bites, crossbites, or vertical discrepancies.
Combined upper and lower jaw surgery (Maxillofacial-mandibular correction): Corrects both jaws in cases of complex skeletal discrepancies for long-term bite stability and facial symmetry.
5.0
Dental clinic in Shoreditch, London
Benefits of Orthognathic Surgery
Improved Bite And Chewing
Corrects severe overbites, underbites, open bites, and crossbites to restore proper function.
Better Speech
Aligning the jaws can help normalise soft tissue positioning, improving clarity over time.
Enhanced Facial Balance And Symmetry
Creates structural improvements for a more harmonious facial appearance.
Improved Airways And Breathing
Jaw advancement can increase airway space, supporting better airflow in the nasal and pharyngeal regions.
Better Jaw Joint Function
Can alleviate jaw joint issues and improve overall jaw movement.
Long-term Stability Of Orthodontic Results
Fixes the underlying skeletal discrepancy to support lasting outcomes.
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Aftercare Advice on Orthognathic Surgery
Recovery after orthognathic surgery is supported by guidance from both your orthodontist and jaw surgeon:
Regular dental check-ups: Keep in touch with your orthodontist to monitor your bite and overall oral health, usually every month.
Follow post-surgery instructions: Your jaw surgeon will provide guidance on rest, diet modifications, and activity levels during recovery.
Oral hygiene: Maintain good dental hygiene around braces or aligners to prevent complications.
Recovery time: Allow sufficient time off work and adjust meals as advised to support healing.
Proper aftercare is key to achieving the best long-term results from your surgery.
Your Orthodontist In Shoreditch, London
Located at the City end of Shoreditch, we are very accessible by tube:
Two minute walk from Old Street Tube Station (Northern Line)
Ten minute walk from Moorgate/Liverpool St Tube and rail stations (National Rail, Elizabeth Line, Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan Lines, and London Overground).
We are on many bus routes, including the 43, 55, 135, 205, 214, and 243.
There is some limited Pay & Display street parking across the road from the practice and a nearby car park on Clere Street.
We have good disabled access for all our treatments and services, including our OPG and CBCT scanner and our well-proportioned bathroom.
We look forward to welcoming you in person very soon!
5.0
Dental clinic in Shoreditch, London
Book your free consultation.
Find out if you might be a candidate for orthognathic surgery. We'll assess your situation and answer all your questions!
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FAQs
Recovery happens in phases.
Most swelling and bruising improve within 2–3 weeks, with normal activities resuming in 6–12 weeks.