Jaw Surgery

Some patients present with severe skeletal problems that make it difficult to achieve an acceptable result with orthodontics alone. In these cases, it may be best to include jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) in the orthodontic plan. Orthognathic surgery can correct problems with chewing, talking, and sleeping that may be related to the skeletal problem. With surgical orthodontics, remarkable improvements to the patient’s profile and overall facial esthetics can be achieved.

Our doctors are experienced in the area of surgical orthodontics. We work routinely with the experienced and skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeons at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics to provide esthetic and functional improvements to patients’ smiles and bites that could not be achieved with braces alone.

Many advancements have been made in the area of surgical orthodontics since Dr. Paul Hermanson first started doing surgical orthodontic cases more than 45 years ago. These advancements have vastly improved the surgical experience for the patient. State-of-the-art materials such as titanium plates and mini-screws provide stability, strength, and predictability to treatment outcomes. Advances in procedures, equipment and technology have reduced post-surgery recovery times, thereby allowing patients to return to their normal routines soon after surgery. In fact, most patients now tell us that their jaw surgery was comparable to having their wisdom teeth removed.