It is common for different procedure to apply depending on the position and alignment of the teeth of the patient. At JK, we use 3D CT, X-rays, and Virtual 3D surgery for our surgeons to determine the best approach or approaches.
a. Conventional Approach
1-2 years before jaw surgery the teeth are aligned in an optimal way through orthodontics. After the teeth are in place, the jaw surgery can proceed. After surgery, there can be minor orthodontic treatment to get optimal alignment.
b. Surgery-First Approach
This approach is used in cases where the teeth alignment and position is optimal for surgery. The total time for treatment is much shorter than conventional approach due to not having pre-operative orthodontic procedure. The jaw is positioned through jaw surgery first, and then only post operative orthodonics is needed.
c. Modified Surgery-First Approach
This approach combines conventional and surgery-first for cases where the teeth have minor positioning or alignment issues. Pre-operative orthodontic treatment can be done for a short period (3-4months) and then continue with routine jaw surgery with post operative orthodontic treatment.