Aligning Teeth Before Orthognathic Surgery with Invisalign or Braces?

Question

I'm deeply considering orthognathic surgery, however from what I understand braces are required to align the teeth before surgery. My question is could I use invislign braces instead of traditional braces before the surgery. If possible I would like to avoid being in braces for 2 years before the surgery actually happens.

Todd Barnett, DMD · Answer

With any jaw surgery, there is usually a pre-surgical phase (approx 9-12 months) where the teeth are aligned and ideally positioned.  Then there is a post-surgical phase (9-12 months) where the bite is detailed before treatment is usually done.  There is no reason why Invisalign could not be used for that initial stage--In other words, YES, Invisalign would work for the first phase of treatment.
In this scenario, when you are getting closer to surgery, traditional braces (you could have CLEAR brackets) would have to be glued on your teeth so the surgeon could perform the surgery.  The post surgical phase would best be accomplished by leaving the brackets on your teeth until treatment is done.  Therefore, you could potentially cut your time in true braces by half.  There are some surgeons doing cases without braces (using implants or nothing at all) but I would not recommend you go that route.
On a final note, it will definitely cost more than using braces alone as the cost to the orthodontist would be significantly more.
Best of luck!

Steven Gollehon, DDS, MD, FACS · Answer

You have asked a very good question.  You need to consult an orthodontist and surgeon who routinely perform surgical orthodontic treatment using Invisalign.  In my area, I have an orthodontist who routinely does Invisalign orthodontic treatment to prepare patients for orthognathic surgery.  He and I have created a very detailed system for preparing and performing the surgery to maintain the detail and stability for a great result.The most important factor in this treatment is that you seek treatment from an orthodontist who is very experienced in SURGICAL orthodontic treatment utilizing Invisalign.  Many are not.  In addition, he or she must have a good working relationship and communication with a board certified maxillofacial surgeon who is comfortable with this approach.Best of Luck!

Morgan E. Norris, III, MD, FACS · Answer

In my opinion Invisalign could be an alternative to
traditional braces for aligning the teeth before orthognathic surgery.  However, not everyone is a candidate for
Invisalign and some people have no alternative to traditional braces.  I recommend researching for a board certified
oral maxillofacial surgeon who can then refer you to an orthodontist who has
experience in preparing patients for orthognathic surgery.  The orthodontist can then evaluate you and
determine what options you have to align your teeth properly.Be well and good luck!@norrisplastic

Brian Povolny, DDS, PhD · Answer

You could use Invisalign before surgery, but you would need to get the braces placed before surgery.  If it is going to take 2 years of pre-surgical orthodontics to get you ready for surgery your case may be too complex for Invisalign to actually get the teeth in the correct positions for surgery (usually the presurgical phase is less than 2 years.).  So you may end up wearing braces both before and after surgery and there may be added cost if you use both Invisalign and braces.  I suggest that you discuss your case with an experienced orthodontist to in order to come with a plan that meets your needs.

David Cheng, DDS · Answer

You are better off doing traditional braces. Invisalign is limited to mild to moderately complex cases. Once you involve orthongathic surgery, your case becomes much more challenging.

Michael J. Thomas, DDS · Answer

You need to work with your orthodontist and oral surgeon and see, but I would think that Invisalign would work great for a least part if not all of your preop and postop treatment.

Aligning Teeth Before Orthognathic Surgery with Invisalign or Braces?

Answers (8)

Answer: Braces or Invisalign before surgery

Answer: Braces or Invisalign before surgery

Answer: Orthongathic surgery and braces

Answer: Orthongathic surgery and braces

Answer: Invisalign is NOT severely limited

Answer: Invisalign is NOT severely limited

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Jaw Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Aligning Teeth Before Orthognathic Surgery with Invisalign or Braces?

Answers (8)

Answer: Braces or Invisalign before surgery

Answer: Braces or Invisalign before surgery

Answer: Orthongathic surgery and braces

Answer: Orthongathic surgery and braces

Answer: Invisalign is NOT severely limited

Answer: Invisalign is NOT severely limited

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Jaw Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.