Adults with large jaw differences, after growth has finished
Surgical orthodontics
For adults whose jaws do not line up. Braces plus a surgeon, planned as one team.
- Typical time
- 18 to 36 months in total
- Visits
- Every 6 to 8 weeks, more often around surgery
- Typical cost
- From $6,500 for the orthodontic portion
How it works
Sometimes the teeth are not the problem: the jaws are. When the upper and lower jaw do not line up, braces alone cannot fix the bite. Surgical orthodontics pairs braces with jaw surgery done by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. We line up the teeth before surgery, the surgeon moves the jaw, and we fine-tune the bite after. It is a big decision, so we take time on it.
Often a good fit for
- A large underbite or overbite that braces alone cannot correct
- An open bite caused by jaw shape
- A jaw that is noticeably off to one side
- Trouble biting or chewing because of how the jaws meet
Only an exam can say for sure. The consult is free.
Start to finish
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Step 1: Consult and imaging
Exam and 3D imaging, then a joint visit with an oral surgeon.
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Step 2: Before surgery
Braces line up the teeth, usually for 12 to 18 months.
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Step 3: Surgery
Done in a hospital by the surgeon. Most people go back to work or school in 2 to 3 weeks.
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Step 4: After surgery
About 6 to 12 more months of braces to settle the bite, then retainers.
Time and cost
18 to 36 months in total Including braces before and after surgery. Your surgeon gives you their own recovery timeline.
Visits: every 6 to 8 weeks, more often around surgery.
| Option | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Orthodontic portion Braces before and after surgery, records, retainers | $6,500 to $9,500 |
| Surgery Billed separately by the surgeon and hospital; often goes through medical insurance | Separate |
Typical ranges in USD before insurance. Your exact fee is written down at the consult, with the monthly plan beside it. How payment plans and insurance work
Day to day
- Plan for a liquid then soft diet for several weeks after surgery.
- Swelling is normal and peaks a few days after surgery.
- We see you often right after surgery to guide the bite with elastics.
The honest part
Surgery has real risks and recovery time. We do not push it. Some people choose a braces-only compromise, and we will explain what that can and cannot do.
Questions before you book?
Call or text Hannah at the front desk. She answers most messages within the hour, during office hours.
Contact the officeQuestions about surgical orthodontics
Does insurance cover jaw surgery?
The surgery often goes through medical insurance when there is a functional problem. The braces portion goes through dental benefits. We help with the paperwork for both.
Who does the surgery?
A board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon. We plan the case together and you meet them before deciding.
Other treatments
Talk it through first. The consult is free.
Exam, photos, a 3D scan and a written plan with the price. About an hour, and no pressure to start.