Dental Surgery Before Braces for Open Bite?

In children and adolescents many open bite problems can be corrected by orthodontic and/or facial orthopedic treatment. In adults, it is more likely that a combination of braces and surgery wil be recommended. Why? because after growth is complete it is rarely if ever possible to change underlying bone structure without resorting to surgery. Surgery will be most effective, and the outcome most predictable, if braces are used first to align the teeth and coordinate the... more

Traditional orthodontists and oral surgeons perform many surgical procedures that are unnecessary.  Dentofacial Orthopedics that changes the bone structure can eliminate the need for surgery in many cases.  This involves using fancy retainers to change bone structures.  Adverse habits such as poor tongue posture and mouth breathing can ruin a great orthodontic result, however.  Open bites are tricky.  Go with an orthodontist with years of experience who has... more

No. Most cases yield a better finished result if you have an orthodontist level and coordinate your dental arches before you have your surgical correction. When the maxillofacial surgeon performs surgery the upper and lower dental arches will fit together much better if orthodontically prepared. In the event the surgery is done before braces it could take a longer period of time in braces to establish the best bite relationships. Most oral surgeons prefer the Orthodontist to prepare the... more