Surgical Orthodontics in Burien, WA
At Advanced Orthodontics in Burien, WA, Dr. Mohammad Mainayar provides comprehensive orthodontic care for patients with complex bite and jaw alignment concerns. In some adult cases, braces alone are not enough to correct significant jaw discrepancies. When this occurs, surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, may be recommended.
Surgical orthodontics is a coordinated treatment approach that combines orthodontic treatment with corrective jaw surgery. It is performed in collaboration with an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon to properly align the upper and lower jaws. The goal is to improve bite function, facial balance, and long-term oral health.
In addition to improving facial aesthetics, orthognathic surgery can enhance chewing efficiency, speech clarity, and breathing function.
What Is Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics is a specialized treatment used to correct severe jaw misalignment that cannot be fixed with braces or clear aligners alone. While traditional orthodontics focuses on moving teeth into better positions, surgical orthodontics corrects the underlying jaw structure.
This treatment is typically recommended for adults who have completed facial growth. Jaw development generally finishes around age 16 for females and age 18 for males. However, orthodontic preparation with braces may begin one to two years before surgery to properly position the teeth.
Dr. Mainayar carefully evaluates facial growth, bite function, and skeletal alignment before determining whether surgical orthodontics is appropriate.
Who Is a Candidate for Orthognathic Surgery?
Adults with significant bite problems, facial asymmetry, or jaw imbalance may be candidates. Common concerns include:
- Severe overbite or underbite
- Open bite
- Difficulty chewing or speaking
- Chronic jaw pain
- Facial imbalance
- Breathing difficulties
In some cases, braces alone may temporarily make the bite appear worse during treatment. This is often part of the pre-surgical preparation phase, where teeth are positioned correctly so the jaws can be properly aligned during surgery.
How Does Jaw Surgery and Recovery Work?
Orthognathic surgery is performed by a skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeon under general anesthesia. Depending on the case, the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both may be repositioned. The surgeon carefully adjusts the jawbones to achieve proper alignment and stability.
The procedure may take several hours depending on complexity.
Initial recovery typically lasts about two weeks, during which patients gradually return to normal daily activities, school, or work. Full bone healing generally occurs within 4 to 8 weeks.
After surgery, Dr. Mainayar continues orthodontic treatment to fine-tune the bite. Braces are usually removed 6 to 12 months following surgery. Retainers are then required to maintain the corrected alignment and protect long-term results.
At Advanced Orthodontics, we are committed to helping patients in Burien, WA achieve balanced function, improved comfort, and a confident smile through personalized, expert care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Surgical orthodontics can feel like a big step, and it’s natural to have questions. Below are answers to common concerns patients in Burien, WA have about orthognathic (jaw) surgery and orthodontic treatment. Dr. Mohammad Mainayar and our team at Advanced Orthodontics are here to guide you through every stage with clarity and support.
Is jaw surgery painful?
Patients are placed under general anesthesia during surgery, so you won’t feel anything during the procedure. Afterward, some swelling and discomfort are normal, especially during the first week. Most patients describe the recovery as manageable with prescribed medication and proper care instructions.
Will insurance cover orthognathic surgery?
Coverage depends on your medical and dental insurance plans. In many cases, if jaw surgery is considered medically necessary — such as for significant bite problems or breathing concerns — medical insurance may provide benefits. Our team can help coordinate with your insurance providers to clarify coverage.
How do I know if braces alone aren’t enough?
If jaw misalignment is caused by skeletal differences rather than tooth positioning alone, braces may not fully correct the problem. A comprehensive orthodontic evaluation, including imaging and bite analysis, allows Dr. Mainayar to determine whether surgical orthodontics is needed.
Will jaw surgery change the way I look?
Yes — but in a positive, balanced way. Orthognathic surgery often improves facial symmetry and profile harmony by correcting jaw position. Many patients notice enhanced facial balance along with improved bite function.
Can adults in their 30s or 40s still have surgical orthodontics?
Yes. As long as jaw growth is complete and you are in good overall health, age alone does not prevent you from being a candidate. Many adults choose surgical orthodontics to correct long-standing bite concerns and improve function.