Surgical Orthodontics in Lakewood, CO
When traditional orthodontic treatments alone aren’t enough to correct severe jaw misalignments or skeletal irregularities, surgical orthodontics offers a comprehensive solution. At Belmar Orthodontics in Lakewood, CO, we specialize in surgical orthodontics—a sophisticated approach that combines orthodontic treatment with oral surgery to correct jaw irregularities and address complex bite issues that cannot be resolved with braces or aligners alone.
Our team, led by Dr. T.C. Hardy, works closely with skilled oral surgeons to provide exceptional care for patients requiring this specialized treatment. We understand the decision to undergo surgical orthodontics is significant, which is why we’re committed to guiding you through every step of the process with compassion, expertise, and personalized attention.
What Is Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics, or orthognathic surgery, is a specialized treatment approach that combines orthodontic care with oral surgery to correct severe jaw misalignments and skeletal irregularities. This collaborative treatment addresses both the positioning of your teeth and the alignment of your jaw bones, resulting in improved function and facial aesthetics.
The process typically involves:
- A period of orthodontic treatment with braces before surgery to align the teeth properly
- Additional orthodontic treatment after surgery to fine-tune your bite
- A retention phase to maintain the results long-term
Unlike standard orthodontic treatment, which focuses solely on tooth movement, surgical orthodontics corrects the underlying skeletal issues that contribute to severe malocclusions. This comprehensive approach provides stable, long-lasting results for patients with complex orthodontic needs.
Who Needs Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgery is required for patients with severe jaw issues that cannot be adequately corrected with orthodontic treatment alone. You might be a candidate for surgical orthodontics if you experience:
- Significant overbite or underbite that affects your ability to chew, speak, or breathe properly
- Facial asymmetry due to jaw misalignment
- An open bite where the front teeth don’t meet when the back teeth are closed
- Difficulty closing your lips comfortably
- Sleep apnea or breathing difficulties related to jaw structure
- TMJ (temporomandibular joint) pain or dysfunction caused by jaw misalignment
- Facial imbalance that impacts your appearance and self-confidence
It’s important to note that surgical orthodontics is generally only performed after jaw growth is complete, typically around ages 16-18 for females and 18-21 for males. Adult patients of any age can be candidates for surgical orthodontics if their condition warrants this level of intervention.
During your consultation at our Lakewood office, Dr. Hardy will conduct a thorough examination to determine if surgical orthodontics is the right approach for your specific situation. We utilize advanced diagnostic technology to precisely evaluate your jaw structure and develop a customized treatment plan.
The Surgical Orthodontic Process
The journey toward a corrected jaw and improved bite through surgical orthodontics involves several phases, each carefully planned and executed by our team in collaboration with skilled oral surgeons.
Initial Consultation and Planning
Your treatment begins with an evaluation at our Lakewood office, including:
- Detailed orthodontic examination
- Advanced imaging (X-rays, 3D scans, photographs)
- Bite analysis and facial measurements
- Discussion of your concerns and treatment goals
- Development of a personalized treatment plan
During this phase, Dr. Hardy will explain the entire process, expected outcomes, and answer any questions you may have. We believe in transparent communication, ensuring you feel confident and informed about your treatment journey.
Pre-Surgical Orthodontic Phase
Before surgery can take place, you’ll undergo orthodontic treatment with braces to:
- Align your teeth within each jaw
- Coordinate your upper and lower arches
- Create the proper spacing for optimal surgical results
- Decompensate for natural adaptations your teeth have made to mask the jaw misalignment
This pre-surgical orthodontic phase typically lasts 12-18 months, depending on the complexity of your case. Regular adjustments and progress evaluations will ensure you’re on track for the surgical phase.
Surgical Phase
When your teeth are properly positioned within each jaw, you’ll be ready for the surgical procedure, which will be performed by a highly qualified oral and maxillofacial surgeon in collaboration with Dr. Hardy. The surgery may involve:
- Repositioning the upper jaw (maxilla)
- Realigning the lower jaw (mandible)
- Adjusting both jaws in more complex cases
- Modifications to the chin structure, if needed
The approach depends on your individual needs and will be thoroughly explained before your procedure. Most orthognathic surgeries are performed under general anesthesia in a hospital setting, with a typical hospital stay of 1-3 days.
Post-Surgical Orthodontic Phase
After a brief recovery period (typically 4-6 weeks), you’ll return to our Lakewood office to continue orthodontic treatment. This final phase:
- Fine-tunes your bite alignment
- Ensures the stability of the surgical corrections
- Perfects the positioning of your teeth
- Typically lasts 6-12 months
Throughout this phase, our team will work closely with your surgeon to monitor recovery and ensure the best results. We’ll provide comprehensive guidance on oral hygiene and dietary considerations to support your recovery and treatment success.
Retention
Once active treatment is complete, you will go through the retention phase to maintain your beautiful new smile and jaw alignment. This typically involves:
- Custom retainers to prevent tooth movement
- Regular follow-up appointments
- Long-term monitoring of stability
Our commitment to your care continues well beyond the active treatment phase, ensuring lasting results from your surgical orthodontic treatment.
Benefits of Surgical Orthodontics
Patients who undergo surgical orthodontics at our Lakewood practice experience numerous life-changing benefits:
Functional Improvements
- Enhanced ability to chew, speak, and breathe
- Reduced strain on jaw joints, potentially alleviating TMJ symptoms
- Improved dental hygiene due to properly aligned teeth
- Decreased risk of abnormal tooth wear
- Better long-term dental health and function
Functional improvements significantly enhance your quality of life, making everyday activities more comfortable and effortless.
Aesthetic Enhancements
- Balanced facial proportions
- Improved profile and facial symmetry
- Enhanced smile aesthetics
- Better lip support and function
- Increased confidence in your appearance
While functional improvements are the primary goal of surgical orthodontics, the aesthetic enhancements can have a profound impact on your self-esteem and social confidence.
Long-Term Results
- Stable correction of severe malocclusions
- Durable improvement in jaw function
- Lasting enhancement of facial aesthetics
- Reduced risk of future dental problems
- Permanent correction of skeletal discrepancies
Surgical orthodontics addresses the root cause of severe bite issues, providing results that stand the test of time and significantly improving your oral health trajectory.
Why Choose Belmar Orthodontics for Surgical Orthodontics?
When considering surgical orthodontics in Lakewood, CO, the expertise and experience of your orthodontic team matter tremendously. At Belmar Orthodontics, we offer:
Specialized Expertise
Dr. T.C. Hardy has spent 2-3 additional years training in specialized orthodontics and programs so they could offer the best possible care. This advanced training makes them uniquely qualified to handle complex surgical orthodontic cases with precision and confidence.
Collaborative Approach
We work closely with top oral surgeons in the Lakewood area, ensuring seamless coordination throughout your treatment journey. This team approach provides comprehensive care and exceptional results.
State-of-the-Art Technology
Our practice utilizes the latest orthodontic and diagnostic technology to precisely plan your treatment and monitor your progress, including:
- 3D imaging for accurate surgical planning
- Digital treatment simulation to visualize expected outcomes
- Advanced orthodontic systems for optimal pre- and post-surgical care
Personalized Care
We understand no two surgical orthodontic cases are identical. We tailor our approach to your needs, concerns, and goals, with treatment plans designed uniquely for you.
Compassionate Support
Undergoing surgical orthodontics is a significant journey. Our entire team is committed to providing the support, guidance, and encouragement you need every step of the way, from initial consultation through the final retention phase.
Taking the Next Step
If you’re struggling with severe jaw misalignment or have been told you might need surgical orthodontics, we invite you to schedule a consultation at our Lakewood office. During this appointment, Dr. Hardy will:
- Evaluate your specific orthodontic needs
- Discuss potential treatment approaches
- Answer your questions about surgical orthodontics
- Help you understand what to expect throughout the process
Many patients who initially feel anxious about surgical orthodontics find understanding the process and expected outcomes helps alleviate their concerns. We’re here to provide the information and support you need to make confident decisions about your orthodontic care.
Schedule Your Surgical Orthodontics Consultation Today
At Belmar Orthodontics, we understand that surgical orthodontics is a significant decision that requires exceptional care and expertise. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive treatment planning and compassionate support throughout your entire journey. We work closely with skilled oral surgeons in the Lakewood area to ensure seamless coordination and outstanding results for even the most complex cases.
Don’t let severe jaw misalignment continue to impact your quality of life. Take the first step toward a healthier bite and more confident smile. Contact Dr. Hardy today at 303-233-2445 or schedule your consultation through our contact form to learn how surgical orthodontics can transform your smile and improve your overall oral health.
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