Choosing an orthodontist is an important decision, especially if your treatment may involve corrective jaw surgery. Whether you’re exploring options for yourself or your child, finding a qualified orthodontist who understands your needs can make the treatment process feel more comfortable and manageable.
At Unique Orthodontics, we believe great orthodontic care starts with listening. Our team takes the time to understand your concerns, explain your options, and help you feel confident about your next steps.
What Is Surgical Orthodontic Treatment?
Surgical orthodontic treatment, also known as orthognathic surgery, may be recommended when a jaw position or skeletal discrepancy affects the way the teeth fit together. Your orthodontist may recommend treatment before and after surgery to align your teeth and coordinate your bite.
Not everyone with an underbite, overbite, or jaw alignment concern needs surgery. The right approach depends on factors such as jaw development, bite function, dental alignment, and overall treatment goals. An orthodontic evaluation can help determine whether surgery may be part of your treatment plan.
5 Things to Consider When Choosing an Orthodontist
If you’re researching orthodontic providers, here are a few important things to keep in mind.
1. Experience and Qualifications
Look for an orthodontist with the education and experience needed to evaluate complex bite and jaw concerns. If your treatment may involve corrective jaw surgery, ask how the orthodontist coordinates care with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
A good provider should be comfortable explaining your diagnosis, available treatment options, and what to expect throughout the process.
2. Convenient Office Locations
Orthodontic treatment typically involves multiple appointments over time. Choosing an office that fits your schedule and is convenient to get to can make staying consistent with appointments easier.
Unique Orthodontics has eight Central Valley locations in Fresno, Clovis, Madera, Merced, Visalia, Hanford, and Tulare, making it easier for families throughout the region to access orthodontic care.
3. Insurance and Payment Options
Before beginning treatment, ask whether the office accepts your dental insurance and what payment options are available.
Your insurance plan determines your orthodontic benefits, and your surgical and orthodontic care may involve separate costs. A team member should be able to help explain your benefits and discuss available payment arrangements before treatment begins.
4. Communication and Comfort
Orthodontic treatment can take time, and you should feel comfortable asking questions along the way.
Pay attention to how the orthodontist and team communicate with you. Do they explain things clearly? Do they listen to your concerns? Do you feel respected and supported?
You deserve a team that makes you feel comfortable and involved in decisions about your care.
5. A Personalized Treatment Plan
No two smiles or jaw structures are exactly alike. Your orthodontist should evaluate your individual needs rather than recommend the same approach for everyone.
If corrective jaw surgery is being considered, ask about the anticipated steps, the role of orthodontic treatment before and after surgery, the expected timeline, and which specialists may be involved.
Understanding the plan can help you know what to expect and feel more prepared.
Why Choose Unique Orthodontics?
At Unique Orthodontics, our mission is simple: to give you something to smile about. We want every patient to feel welcomed, heard, and supported throughout their orthodontic journey.
With personalized orthodontic evaluations, a variety of treatment options, and complimentary consultations, our team is here to help you understand your choices. If you have concerns about your bite, jaw alignment, or whether surgical orthodontic treatment may be appropriate, we’re happy to walk you through your options.
Families across the Central Valley can also enjoy convenient access to care at any of our eight office locations.
Schedule a Complimentary Orthodontic Consultation
If you’re considering orthodontic treatment or have questions about whether corrective jaw surgery may be necessary, the first step is an evaluation with an orthodontist.
Contact Unique Orthodontics to schedule your complimentary consultation. We’ll take the time to learn about your concerns, answer your questions, and help you explore the next steps toward a healthier, more confident smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an orthodontist and a surgical orthodontist?
An orthodontist specializes in correcting tooth alignment and bite problems. Surgical orthodontic treatment involves coordinating orthodontic care with corrective jaw surgery when a jaw discrepancy cannot be adequately addressed with orthodontic treatment alone.
Does everyone with an underbite or overbite need jaw surgery?
No. Many bite concerns can be treated with orthodontic options such as braces or clear aligners. Surgery may be considered when a significant jaw discrepancy affects the bite and cannot be corrected through orthodontic treatment alone.
How do I know if I need surgical orthodontic treatment?
An orthodontic evaluation can help determine whether your concern is related primarily to tooth position, jaw position, or both. If surgery may be appropriate, your orthodontist can discuss the next steps and coordinate with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
How long does surgical orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment time varies depending on the complexity of the bite and jaw concern, the orthodontic treatment needed, and the surgical plan. Your orthodontist and surgeon can provide a more individualized timeline after evaluating your needs.
Can I have orthodontic treatment before and after jaw surgery?
Yes. In many cases, braces are used before surgery to align the teeth and prepare the bite. Additional orthodontic treatment after surgery helps fine-tune the bite and tooth positions. The exact process depends on your treatment plan.