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ORTHOGNATHIC SURGERY

At Village Orthodontics in Dunwoody, GA, orthognathic surgery (jaw surgery) is carefully coordinated for patients whose upper and lower jaws are out of position and cannot be corrected with braces or Invisalign® alone. Under the guidance of Vanderbilt-trained orthodontist Dr. Bret Freedman, orthodontic treatment is used before and after surgery to align the teeth so they fit together properly once the jaws are repositioned. Working closely with trusted oral and maxillofacial surgeons across North Atlanta, our team helps teens and adults from Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Norcross, and nearby communities improve their bite, chewing, speech, facial balance, and long-term oral health.

COMPREHENSIVE

We combine detailed orthodontic planning with surgical care to correct jaw position, bite problems, and functional issues that go beyond tooth alignment.

COORDINATED

Dr. Freedman works hand in hand with your oral and maxillofacial surgeon, sharing digital records and treatment goals so everyone is aligned on your ideal result.

FUNCTIONAL

Orthognathic surgery is designed to improve how your teeth fit, how you chew and speak, and how your jaws work together for long-term comfort and stability.

Two side-view human skull diagrams highlighting the jaw in blue, showing open and closed positions.

In-Depth Process

Orthognathic surgery at Village Orthodontics is never approached as a quick fix, it is a structured, team-based process that starts with an in-depth exam and continues through braces, surgery, and fine-tuning afterward. By identifying jaw discrepancies early, often between ages 9 and 15 when growth can still be evaluated, and by partnering with experienced oral surgeons, we create treatment plans that aim for both esthetic improvement and strong, stable function. From financial guidance and insurance coordination to clear expectations about timing and recovery, our Dunwoody office walks you through every step so a complex treatment feels manageable, organized, and supported by a Village that cares about your outcome.


To learn more about Orthognathic Surgery from Village Orthodontics, read our FAQ below!

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Orthognathic Surgery FAQ

  • What is orthognathic surgery and why is it sometimes needed?

    Orthognathic surgery is corrective jaw surgery performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to reposition the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both when they are out of alignment. It is recommended when the jaws are positioned so far apart or mismatched that braces or Invisalign® alone cannot create a proper bite, which can affect chewing, speaking, facial balance, and long-term joint health.

  • How does Village Orthodontics fit into the jaw surgery process?

    At Village Orthodontics, Dr. Freedman plans and manages the orthodontic side of treatment. Braces or aligners are used before surgery to align the teeth within each jaw, then surgery repositions the jaws, and orthodontic treatment continues afterward to fine-tune the bite into its final, stable position. We also coordinate closely with your oral surgeon to share records, imaging, and treatment goals.

  • Who is a good candidate for orthognathic surgery?

    Candidates often have significant jaw discrepancies such as an underbite, severe overbite, open bite, crossbite related to jaw position, or facial asymmetry that cannot be corrected with orthodontics alone. These issues may cause difficulty chewing, biting, or speaking, as well as jaw pain or excessive tooth wear. During a consultation, Dr. Freedman will evaluate your teeth, jaws, and X-rays to determine whether jaw surgery should be considered.

  • What age is best to evaluate for jaw surgery?

    Children and teens between 9 and 15 years old who have most or all of their adult teeth erupted are typically at an ideal age to identify potential orthognathic surgery needs. The goal is to recognize jaw growth issues before growth is complete so the timing of surgery and orthodontics can be planned appropriately. Adults can also be evaluated and treated once growth has finished.

  • What is the treatment timeline for orthognathic surgery?

    Treatment usually begins with a period of orthodontic care to align the teeth within each jaw. Once the teeth are in the correct positions for surgery, the surgeon performs the jaw procedure. After healing, braces or aligners are continued for a period of time to refine the bite and stabilize the result. The exact timeline depends on your specific case, but Dr. Freedman will outline expected stages and timing at your consultation.

  • Will I have braces before and after the surgery?

    In most cases, yes. Orthodontic treatment is used before surgery to set the teeth in the right positions within each jaw so they fit correctly when the jaws are moved. After surgery, braces continue for a while to make small adjustments, ensure proper contact between teeth, and finalize your bite. This combination of braces and surgery is what creates both a functional and esthetic result.

  • How does Village Orthodontics coordinate with the oral surgeon?

    If you already have an oral surgeon, Dr. Freedman will collaborate with them by sharing records, photos, digital scans, and treatment plans. If you do not have a surgeon, he can refer you to a trusted oral and maxillofacial surgeon who regularly performs orthognathic surgery. Throughout the process, our team maintains communication so that orthodontic and surgical steps work together seamlessly.

  • How much does orthognathic surgery cost and what are my financial options?

    The total cost includes both the orthodontic treatment and the surgical fee from the oral surgeon. At Village Orthodontics, our experienced treatment and financial coordinator will review the orthodontic portion of your care, help you understand how your dental and medical insurance may contribute, and create a no interest payment plan that fits your budget. We accept most major PPO dental insurance plans, process claims for you, and offer options like CareCredit and major credit cards, along with discounts for payment in full. Your surgeon’s office will provide separate details about the surgical fees and medical insurance coverage.

  • Is orthognathic surgery safe and what is recovery like?

    Orthognathic surgery is a common procedure performed by specially trained oral and maxillofacial surgeons using established techniques and protocols. As with any surgery, there are risks, which your surgeon will explain in detail. Recovery usually includes a period of swelling, soreness, and a soft diet, followed by gradual return to normal activities. Dr. Freedman and your surgeon will give you specific instructions and monitor your healing to help you stay on track.

  • What are the benefits of combining orthodontics with jaw surgery?

    When orthodontics and jaw surgery are combined, we are able to address both the position of your teeth and the position of your jaws, which can significantly improve how your bite feels, how well you chew, how clearly you speak, and how your face looks from the front and side. This comprehensive approach can also reduce abnormal tooth wear, help protect the joints, and create a smile that is not only straighter but more harmonious with your facial features.