Pediatric surgical orthodontics

What is pediatric surgical orthodontics?

Surgical orthodontics corrects jaw abnormalities to improve chewing, breathing and speaking. It may also enhance a child's appearance. Your orthodontist works closely with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to make sure your child receives the best treatment available.

Types of surgeries

• Lower jaw surgery - The oral surgeon separates the jaw and moves it either backward or forward.

• Upper jaw surgery - The surgeon repositions the jaw backward or forward, up or down.

In both types of surgery, the oral surgeon may add or remove bones as necessary for alignment and stability. He may also reposition or augment other facial bones as necessary.

What can I expect with pediatric surgical orthodontics?

Orthodontic treatments can range from six months to 18 months or more. During that time, the orthodontist will schedule regular adjustments to your child's braces.

The surgery itself takes place in a hospital. Your child's orthodontist will work closely with the oral surgeon who will perform the procedure. Depending on the type of correction needed, the surgery may last a few to several hours.