Do I Need Braces Before Jaw Surgery?
Almost everyone who has orthognathic surgery needs braces beforehand. Here is why.
Yes β in most cases, you will need braces before jaw surgery. This pre-surgical orthodontic treatment is called "orthodontic decompensation" and typically lasts 12β18 months.
Why braces before surgery?
Your teeth naturally compensate for a bad bite. For example, if your jaw is crooked, your teeth tilt to try to meet each other. Before surgery, the orthodontist must undo this compensation so that after the jaw is moved, the teeth fit together correctly in their new position.
- What happens during pre-surgical orthodontics:
- Braces are placed on both upper and lower teeth
- Teeth are moved to their ideal positions within each jaw
- The bite may look worse before surgery β this is normal and expected
- The orthodontist and surgeon work together on the treatment plan
Can I use Invisalign instead of braces?
In some cases, Invisalign can be used for pre-surgical orthodontics. This depends on the complexity of your case. Discuss this with your orthodontist and surgeon.
How Long Before Surgery
- Most patients need 12β18 months of braces before surgery
- Simple cases may need only 6β9 months
- Complex cases may need up to 24 months
Clinical Guidance
Pre-surgical orthodontics (braces) is an essential part of orthognathic surgery for most patients. It aligns the teeth within each jaw so that after the jaw is repositioned, the bite fits together properly. This phase typically lasts 12β18 months.