Are you considering surgical orthodontic treatment but need to know if you’re the right candidate? Well, look no further! Deciding to undergo surgery can be daunting, and it’s essential to understand who is suitable for this type of treatment. In this blog post, we’ll list the criteria that make someone an ideal candidate for surgical orthodontic treatment. We’ve covered you, from severe jaw misalignments to facial asymmetry issues. So sit back, relax and learn how surgical orthodontics might work for you!
What is Surgical Orthodontic Treatment?
There are several different types of surgical orthodontic treatment, but they all have one thing in common: they involve surgery to correct alignment issues with the teeth. This type of treatment is often used for patients with severe misalignment issues that cannot be corrected with traditional braces or other nonsurgical methods.
Surgical orthodontic treatment can correct several problems, including crowding of the teeth, protruding teeth, deep bites, cross bites, and open bites. The specific type of surgery used will depend on the individual patient’s needs and the severity of their misalignment issue.
If you are considering surgical orthodontic treatment, it is essential to consult an experienced orthodontist to determine if this type of treatment is right for you. They will be able to assess your case and determine whether or not surgery is the best course of action.
Who Is a Good Candidate for this Procedure?
A good candidate for surgical orthodontic treatment is usually an adult patient who has had traditional braces but still has some misalignment issues. Other patients who might be good candidates include those with congenital dental anomalies or malocclusions that cannot be corrected with regular braces alone. Surgical orthodontics can correct a wide variety of dental problems, so if you are unsure if you are a candidate, consult an orthodontist to find out if this type of treatment is right for you.
Benefits and Risks of the Surgery
There are both benefits and risks associated with surgical orthodontic treatment. The main benefit is that it can significantly improve the appearance of your teeth and jaws. It can also help to correct specific bite problems and make it easier to keep your teeth clean.
However, there are also some risks associated with this type of surgery. These include infection, bleeding, and damage to the nerves or blood vessels in the mouth. There is also a risk of developing an asymmetrical jaw if the surgery is not performed correctly.
Preoperative Preparation
Preoperative preparation is essential for patients undergoing surgical orthodontic treatment. Patients should brush their teeth and rinse with mouthwash the night before surgery. They should also avoid eating or drinking anything after midnight. Patients should wear comfortable clothing on the day of surgery and avoid wearing makeup or jewellery. Patients must also arrange for someone to drive them home after surgery.
Postoperative Care and Recovery
Most patients report excellent results following surgical orthodontic treatment. In addition, there are usually no side effects or complications associated with the surgery. Most patients experience very little pain and swelling after the procedure and can return to normal activities within a few days. The key to a successful recovery is to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully and to take it easy for the first few days after surgery.
Alternatives to Surgical Orthodontic Treatment
If you are considering orthodontic treatment but are unsure if surgery is right for you, there are a few alternatives to traditional surgical treatment that may be worth exploring. These include:
Invisalign: Invisalign is a nearly invisible way to straighten teeth without metal brackets or wires. It uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners that gradually shift your teeth into place.
Lingual braces are placed on the back of your teeth, making them hidden from view. This type of braces can be more challenging to keep clean but may be a good option for those who want to avoid the appearance of braces.
Ceramic braces: Ceramic braces are made of clear or tooth-coloured materials and are less noticeable than metal braces. They may require more care and attention to avoid staining but can be a good alternative for patients who do not want their braces to be noticeable.
Self-ligating braces: Self-ligating braces use special clips instead of elastic bands to hold the wire in place. This can make them more comfortable and easier to keep clean than traditional metal braces.
Conclusion
In conclusion, surgical orthodontic treatment is an excellent option for those looking to correct severe malocclusions that may not be able to be addressed using traditional orthodontic treatments. At the same time, it is a more invasive and expensive procedure than traditional braces, but the long-term benefits far outway the short-term discomfort. If you are a good candidate for this type of treatment, talking to your dentist or orthodontist about your options will help you decide whether this treatment style is right for you.