Surgical Orthodontics Southlake, TX

Traditional orthodontics like metal braces and Invisalign can only move your teeth so far. Sometimes the jaw shape or jaw position can prevent your teeth from moving to their desired position. At this point, you either have to accept defeat for your orthodontic treatment and live with your results, or you can opt for surgical orthodontics, a specialized form of oral surgery in Southlake, TX.

Find out if surgical orthodontics is the right solution for you when you schedule a consultation with Dr. Van Tassell. Please call (817) 587-4414 to book an appointment today!

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What is Surgical Orthodontics?

Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a specialized technique that helps patients achieve optimal orthodontic alignment, especially when the shape or position of the jaw prevents the teeth from reaching their ideal position with traditional braces.

This procedure is often necessary for addressing severe jaw and facial abnormalities that cannot be corrected with braces alone. At StarImage Dental Boutique & Oral Surgery, we provide advanced surgical orthodontics as part of our commitment to comprehensive dental care in Southlake, TX.

Surgical orthodontics addresses issues such as:

  • Severe bite problems (like overbite, underbite, or crossbite) that affect how the upper and lower jaws align.
  • Jaw misalignments that cause difficulty with chewing, speaking, or breathing.
  • Facial asymmetry that impacts both appearance and function.

Without oral surgery, the pressure from braces could potentially cause teeth to detach from the bone, since traditional methods may not be effective in severe cases. Surgical orthodontics offers an alternative approach by reshaping the jawbones and making it possible for teeth and bones to move into proper alignment. Treatment usually combines surgery with orthodontics both before and after the procedure to ensure the best possible results.

The surgery not only improves bite function but also enhances facial balance and overall oral health. It is generally recommended for adults whose jawbones have finished growing, though it may be necessary for teens with severe jaw growth issues.

How Does it Work?

Surgical orthodontics uses precise techniques to adjust the jawbones so the teeth can move into the correct position:

  • Mid-palatal split – Often used to widen the upper arch, also known as surgically assisted rapid palatal expansion.
  • Accelerated osteogenic orthodontics – Bone incisions are made around the teeth to accelerate movement while stimulating healing.
  • Bone anchors – Plates or screws implanted in the jaws provide stable anchors, eliminating the need for old-fashioned headgear and avoiding major reconstructive jaw surgery in many cases.

Each method is chosen based on your unique needs and goals to create the most efficient and effective treatment plan.

Is it Right For Me?

If your orthodontist has told you that you need reconstructive jaw surgery to achieve your desired results, there’s a good chance that surgical orthodontics is right for you.

During your consultation, Dr. Van Tassell will take detailed images of your jaw and determine whether surgical orthodontics can help. He can also coordinate with your orthodontist to make sure your braces and surgery are timed correctly for the best outcome. Most candidates for surgical orthodontics have a misaligned bite, a jaw abnormality, or malocclusion that cannot be corrected with orthodontics alone.

Benefits of Surgical Orthodontics

There are a lot of amazing benefits that come with surgical orthodontics. You can look forward to:

  • Easier chewing, biting, and speaking
  • No headgear
  • No reconstructive jaw surgery
  • Amazing results that last a lifetime
  • Improved facial appearance

So, what are you waiting for? Find out if surgical orthodontics in Southlake, TX are right for you. It can save you from a painful reconstructive jaw surgery down the line. Please contact Dr. Van Tassell.

Contact Our Cosmetic Dentists in Southlake, TX Today!

A beautiful smile that helps you feel confident is just a few appointments away. What are you waiting for? Book an appointment with our Southlake cosmetic dentist, Dr. Van Tassell, at StarImage Dental Boutique & Oral Surgery today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Surgical Orthodontics
FAQs

Surgical Orthodontics FAQs

Surgical orthodontics offers a solution when traditional braces or Invisalign aren’t enough to achieve proper alignment. By addressing the underlying jaw structure, this advanced treatment helps create balance between the teeth and jaws, improving bite function, facial harmony, and long-term results for patients with complex orthodontic needs.

Cosmetic braces or clear aligners (like Invisalign) straighten teeth within the existing jaw structure. They improve smile aesthetics by correcting crowding, gaps, and mild bite issues.

Like any surgery, surgical orthodontics involves some discomfort, but modern techniques and medications keep recovery manageable. Most patients describe the experience as less painful than expected, and discomfort usually subsides within the first couple of weeks.

Treatment typically lasts 18 to 24 months because it combines orthodontics with surgery. Braces are usually worn before surgery to prepare the teeth, and again afterward to fine-tune alignment as the jaw heals. The exact timeline depends on the severity of your case and how your body responds to treatment.

Most patients return to work, school, or normal daily activities within 1–2 weeks of surgery. Swelling and mild soreness are common but improve quickly. Full healing of the jaw takes several months, during which follow-up visits help ensure your teeth and bite are moving into proper alignment.

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