When is surgery necessary to correct malocclusion?

Surgical intervention for malocclusion, or misalignment of the teeth and jaws, is considered when orthodontic treatment alone cannot address the underlying skeletal discrepancies or severe jaw deformities. Here are some instances when surgery may be necessary:

1. Severe Skeletal Discrepancies: In cases where there is a significant difference in the size or position of the jaws, surgery may be needed to correct the underlying skeletal issues. This often involves orthognathic surgery, which aims to align the jaws correctly for improved function and aesthetics.

2. Impacted Teeth: Some individuals may have impacted teeth, which are unable to erupt normally due to a lack of space or abnormal positioning. In such cases, surgical exposure and repositioning of the impacted tooth may be necessary.

3. Cleft Lip and Palate: Individuals born with cleft lip and palate may require a combination of surgical and orthodontic treatment to correct the defects and achieve proper function of the mouth and nose.

4. Sleep Apnea: In severe cases of obstructive sleep apnea, surgery may be recommended to improve the airway by correcting jaw deformities or enlarging the airway space.

5. Facial Asymmetry: For individuals with significant facial asymmetry or deformities, surgery can be used to correct these imbalances and enhance facial aesthetics.

6. Traumatic Injuries: In cases of facial trauma or jaw fractures, surgery may be needed to repair and reposition the affected structures.

Before deciding on surgical intervention, a thorough evaluation by an orthodontist and oral maxillofacial surgeon is essential. They will assess the severity of the malocclusion, consider the patient's individual needs and medical history, and determine if surgery is the best course of action for achieving the desired functional and aesthetic outcomes.