Orthodontic care is often associated with braces and aligners, but in certain cases, a more comprehensive approach is necessary. When jaw irregularities or skeletal issues affect your ability to chew, speak, or breathe comfortably, surgical orthodontics may be the recommended path forward.
At Van Vliet Orthodontics, our board-certified team provides advanced orthodontic solutions — including surgical orthodontics — to help patients in Highland, NY and throughout the Hudson Valley achieve not only beautiful smiles, but lasting function and comfort.
If you’ve been told that braces alone aren’t enough to correct your bite or jaw concerns, surgical orthodontics may be the life-changing solution you’ve been waiting for.
Highland, NY Surgical Orthodontics Experts
Dr. Martin F. Van Vliet and Dr. Bradford W. Ganz are highly experienced in treating complex orthodontic cases that require interdisciplinary collaboration. Their deep understanding of jaw alignment and facial growth, combined with close partnerships with trusted oral surgeons, ensures that every surgical orthodontic plan is carefully coordinated and customized.
Surgical orthodontics is typically recommended for adult patients or older teens who have completed jaw growth. It allows our team to correct skeletal concerns that braces or aligners alone cannot address — particularly when long-term function, airway health, and facial balance are involved.
What Is Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, combines orthodontic treatment with corrective jaw surgery to address skeletal discrepancies. While braces and aligners can reposition teeth, they cannot move the jaw bones themselves — which is why surgery may be necessary in more advanced cases.
This approach typically involves three phases:
- Pre-surgical orthodontics — Braces are used to properly align the teeth in preparation for surgery
- Jaw surgery — Performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in a hospital setting
- Post-surgical orthodontics — Final adjustments refine the bite and overall smile
The result is improved facial harmony, better jaw function, and long-term stability.
Who Needs Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics is recommended for patients whose orthodontic concerns are rooted in skeletal structure rather than tooth position alone. Common conditions that may require surgical orthodontic treatment include:
- Jaw misalignment — When the upper and lower jaws do not line up properly
- Severe overbite or underbite — That affects chewing, speech, or appearance
- Open bite — When the front teeth don’t meet when the mouth is closed
- Facial asymmetry — Caused by uneven jaw growth or past trauma
- Sleep apnea — Linked to jaw positioning and restricted airway space
- Chronic jaw pain or TMJ discomfort — Resulting from skeletal imbalance
- Difficulty chewing or speaking — Due to improper jaw alignment
Our team will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether surgical orthodontics is the right option for your needs.
Benefits of Surgical Orthodontics
While more involved than traditional orthodontic treatment, surgical orthodontics offers powerful benefits for patients with complex needs:
- Improved bite function — Making chewing and speaking more comfortable
- Enhanced facial balance — Correcting asymmetry and improving proportions
- Long-term stability — Addressing the root cause of bite issues
- Better breathing and airway support — Especially for patients with sleep-related concerns
- Reduced jaw pain — Relieving strain caused by misalignment
- Increased confidence — Many patients report life-changing results
This treatment goes beyond aesthetics — it improves how your face functions and feels every day.
Surgical Orthodontics at Van Vliet Orthodontics
Choosing Van Vliet Orthodontics means choosing a team known throughout the Hudson Valley for precision, integrity, and results. We take a thoughtful, collaborative approach to surgical orthodontics, ensuring every patient receives comprehensive care from start to finish.
Our approach includes:
- Close coordination with oral surgeons — For seamless treatment planning
- Advanced diagnostics — Including 3D imaging and digital planning tools
- Customized treatment plans — Designed around your anatomy and goals
- Full-service orthodontic care — Before and after surgery
- Experienced, board-certified orthodontists — Trusted by families for generations
What to Expect During Treatment
Surgical orthodontic treatment follows a carefully structured timeline:
Pre-surgical phase — Braces are worn for several months to properly position the teeth, while imaging and surgical planning take place.
Surgical phase — Jaw surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Initial recovery typically lasts 1–2 weeks, followed by gradual healing.
Post-surgical phase — Orthodontic treatment continues to refine the bite and ensure long-term stability. Retainers are used after treatment to maintain results.
Throughout every stage, our team provides guidance, reassurance, and expert care.
Is Surgical Orthodontics Right for You?
If you’ve been told your orthodontic concerns are too complex for braces alone — or if jaw pain, breathing issues, or bite problems affect your quality of life — surgical orthodontics may offer the solution.
We take the time to explain your options clearly and help you make an informed decision about your care.
Schedule a Surgical Orthodontics Consultation in Highland, NY
Your smile and comfort matter. At Van Vliet Orthodontics, we proudly serve patients in Highland, NY and the surrounding Hudson Valley with advanced orthodontic solutions designed to last.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn how surgical orthodontics can help you achieve a healthier, more balanced smile.