Orthodontic treatment is commonly known as the process of correcting misaligned teeth using braces. However, in certain cases where jaw position abnormalities are involved, a more complex approach is required—orthodontic surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery. This procedure combines orthodontic treatment with jaw surgery to achieve optimal balance in both function and facial aesthetics.
Orthodontic surgery is generally recommended for patients with Class III malocclusion, as well as cases of jaw discrepancies that cannot be corrected through conventional orthodontic treatment alone. The procedure involves collaboration between orthodontists and oral surgeons, beginning with braces to align the teeth, followed by jaw surgery, and concluding with final adjustments to tooth positioning.
Interestingly, research conducted by FKG UGM student Raihana Hikmawati Hibatulloh, supervised by Dr. drg. Cendrawasih AD, M.Kes., Sp.Ort(K) and Dr. drg. Sri Suparwitri, SU., Sp.Ort (K), revealed that most orthodontic patients experience Class I and Class II malocclusions. However, several Class III cases also emerge as potential candidates for orthodontic surgery. The study also found that female orthodontic patients outnumber males, with Angle Class I malocclusion being the most dominant type in both genders, while fixed orthodontic treatment is the most commonly used method.
These findings suggest that although Class I malocclusion is the most prevalent, the presence of more complex Class III cases still requires special attention, particularly in determining the appropriate treatment approach. Orthodontic surgery is not only a functional solution but also has significant psychological and social impacts, as it improves facial appearance and boosts patient self-confidence.
Patients undergoing this procedure must undergo thorough evaluations, including 3D radiographic imaging, study models, and facial analysis. An interdisciplinary approach is also key to success, given the complexity of the cases handled. The entire process may take 18 to 24 months, covering both pre- and post-surgery phases.
With advances in imaging technology and minimally invasive surgical techniques, orthodontic surgery has become safer and more precise. In the future, this procedure has the potential to become the standard of care for patients with significant craniofacial abnormalities.
Through collaboration between clinical research and treatment practice, approaches to orthodontic cases can continue to evolve, expanding therapeutic options that address not only dental alignment but also overall facial structure and function.
References
Raihana Hikmawati Hibatulloh, Dr. drg. Cendrawasih AD, M.Kes., Sp.Ort(K); Dr. drg. Sri Suparwitri, SU., Sp.Ort (K), Comparison of Frequency Distribution of Male and Female Orthodontic Patients Based on Angle Malocclusion Type and Orthodontic Treatment Method (Study at RSGM UGM Prof. Soedomo Yogyakarta in 2019), https://etd.repository.ugm.ac.id/penelitian/detail/225029
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
