surgical orthodontics Bellevue, WA

Surgical Orthodontics in Bellevue, WA

Dr. Wallace W. Wong, Orthodontics provides surgical orthodontic care for patients in Bellevue, WA with severe bite problems, jaw discrepancies, and malocclusions that braces alone cannot correct. Surgical orthodontics, also called orthognathic surgery, combines orthodontic treatment with corrective jaw surgery to improve function, facial balance, and long-term oral health.

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What Is Surgical Orthodontics?

Surgical orthodontics is used when the upper and lower jaws do not line up correctly and tooth movement alone cannot fix the problem. Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a dental specialty that treats complex conditions involving the mouth, jaws, face, and skull. When your case requires surgery, Dr. Wallace Wong works closely with an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon to provide coordinated, comprehensive care from start to finish.

Who May Need Corrective Jaw Surgery?

Surgical orthodontics may be recommended for patients with:

  • Severe underbites, overbites, or open bites
  • Significant jaw asymmetry or facial imbalance
  • Difficulty chewing, biting, or speaking
  • Chronic jaw pain related to bite misalignment
  • A receding lower jaw or protruding jaw

In addition to improving your bite, surgery can enhance facial structure and symmetry. Because the jaws must be finished growing, surgery is usually performed after growth is complete, typically around age 16 for females and age 18 for males. Younger patients may benefit from early orthodontic treatment to guide jaw growth and potentially reduce the severity of problems later.

The Surgical Orthodontic Process

Surgery is not always necessary, so a careful evaluation comes first. Dr. Wong will review your records, including digital x-rays and scans from our iTero® intraoral scanner, and you will consult with an oral surgeon to discuss whether surgery is the right option.

If surgery is recommended, treatment typically follows these stages:

  • Pre-surgical orthodontics: Braces are placed to align the teeth so they fit together properly once the jaws are repositioned.
  • Jaw surgery: An oral and maxillofacial surgeon performs the procedure in a hospital setting. Surgery may take a few hours, depending on your needs.
  • Recovery: Most patients rest for about two weeks and take time off work or school while they heal.
  • Post-surgical orthodontics: Once healed, Dr. Wong fine-tunes your bite. Most patients wear braces for six months to a year after surgery.
  • Retention: A retainer helps maintain your results and your hard work.

Is Orthognathic Surgery Safe?

Like all surgeries, corrective jaw surgery carries some risks. However, orthognathic procedures have been performed for many years and are considered safe and effective overall. We encourage you to ask any questions before your procedure so you feel fully informed and confident.

Whether you need surgery to correct your bite, a malocclusion, or a jaw abnormality, we are here to help. Learn more about adult orthodontic treatment, explore our orthodontic services, or call (425) 746-7126 to schedule a consultation.

Surgical Orthodontics FAQs

What is surgical orthodontics?

Surgical orthodontics, or orthognathic surgery, combines braces with corrective jaw surgery to fix severe bite and jaw alignment problems.

How do I know if I need jaw surgery?

Dr. Wong will evaluate your bite and jaw relationship. If braces alone cannot correct the problem, he will refer you to an oral surgeon for a surgical consultation.

At what age can jaw surgery be performed?

Surgery is usually performed after jaw growth is complete, typically around age 16 for females and age 18 for males.

Who performs orthognathic surgery?

An oral and maxillofacial surgeon performs the surgery, while Dr. Wong manages the orthodontic treatment before and after the procedure.

How long is recovery from jaw surgery?

Most patients rest for about two weeks after surgery and should plan to take time off work or school while they heal.

Will I still need braces after surgery?

Yes. Most patients wear braces for six months to a year after surgery to fine-tune the bite, followed by a retainer.

Is corrective jaw surgery covered by insurance?

Medical insurance may cover orthognathic surgery when it is needed to correct functional problems. Check with your insurance provider for details.