Surgical treatment

The combined orthodontic and surgical treatment for adults typically takes about three to four years. This requires that jaw growth is complete. For younger patients, this can be checked using a wrist X-ray.

In the first step, a fixed brace is fitted at the specialist orthodontic practice of Dr. Krause in Munich to correct the dental misalignment. Additionally, the muscles are prepared for the new, corrected jaw position. For this, a bite splint is usually made, or physiotherapy for the oral muscles is prescribed. Jaw joint problems (e.g., clicking, pain, limited mouth opening) should be treated beforehand.

In the next step, a surgical procedure is performed by a specialist, usually under general anesthesia. This requires a hospital stay of several days. The surgeon corrects one or both jaws depending on the diagnosis. When correcting the upper or lower jaw, the respective jaw is divided by a cut. This procedure is performed through the oral cavity, so no scars are visible externally after the operation. The jaw is moved forward or backward as needed and then fixed with titanium screws and plates. These titanium fixations are usually removed one year later after the healing phase.

Jaw misalignments can affect not just one, but both jaws. In some cases, the misalignment is so severe that both the upper and lower jaws need to be operated on to ensure correct bite alignment. In the case of an advancement of the lower jaw, it is usually sensible to advance the chin as well. This typically occurs at the time of the metal removal after the jaw advancement to harmonize the facial profile and create an aesthetic contour of the neck with a pronounced angle between the lower jaw and neck. The chin is advanced by separating it from the lower jaw and then fixing it in its new position with titanium plates.

In the third step, the corrected jaw position is stabilized for a few weeks after the surgical procedure. For this purpose, rubber bands are usually attached to the brackets. Alternatively, clear dental aligners can be used. After about two months, the bone has stabilized. During this time, you should only consume soft foods. Generally, the titanium plates and screws are removed in another procedure after a few months.

In the final step, the dental alignment is finally corrected orthodontically. This is followed by a retention phase with a removable brace or a lingual retainer to ensure that there is no relapse.

Enjoy brushing, Your orthodontist in Munich, Dr. Sebastian Krause.

Combined orthodontic and surgical treatment for adults typically takes about three to four years, requiring complete jaw growth. This can be checked in younger patients using a wrist X-ray.

First, a fixed brace is fitted at Dr. Krause's orthodontic practice in Munich to correct dental misalignment and prepare the muscles for the new jaw position, often with a bite splint or physiotherapy. Any jaw joint issues should be treated beforehand.

Next, a specialist performs the surgical procedure under general anesthesia, usually requiring a hospital stay of several days. The surgeon corrects one or both jaws through an incision inside the mouth, leaving no external scars. The jaw is repositioned and fixed with titanium screws and plates, which are removed after about a year.

Severe misalignments may require surgery on both jaws and possibly chin advancement for better facial harmony, done during the metal removal stage.

Post-surgery, the jaw position is stabilized for a few weeks using rubber bands or clear aligners. The bone stabilizes in about two months, during which only soft foods should be consumed. The titanium plates and screws are usually removed in another procedure after a few months.

Finally, the dental alignment is completed orthodontically, followed by a retention phase with a removable brace or lingual retainer to prevent relapse.