Recessed or protruding lower jaw? In Saint-Eustache or Montreal, Dr Benguira assesses whether orthodontics alone or care coordinated with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon may be appropriate. The surgeon performs the operation.
Orthognathic surgery is corrective jaw surgery. In a treatment sometimes called surgical orthodontics, the orthodontist prepares the alignment of the teeth, and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon repositions the upper jaw (maxilla), the lower jaw (mandible), or both when indicated. Depending on the diagnosis, this approach may help improve:
Orthodontics and surgery are planned together when a jaw discrepancy cannot be corrected by moving teeth alone. The timeline and steps vary from patient to patient.
Patients after age 16-18 who have completed their growth and for whom the jaw discrepancy is too significant to be compensated by simply moving the teeth.
Lower jaw too far forward relative to the upper jaw, sometimes creating a more concave profile.
Recessed lower jaw, sometimes making the profile appear more convex or the chin look recessed.
Lateral deviation of one or both jaws creating a visible facial imbalance.
Inability to close the front teeth together, affecting chewing and speech.
For some patients, jaw advancement may be part of treatment for obstructive sleep apnea after a specialist assessment.
Face too long with excessive gummy smile or difficulty closing the lips at rest.
The patient wears fixed appliances (“braces”). Dr Benguira aligns the teeth to an ideal arch form. Sometimes, this makes the misalignment more visible temporarily.
The patient sees the surgeon again 2 months before the operation. Thanks to virtual surgical planning (VSP), every movement is calculated to the millimeter with 3D-printed surgical guides.
Under general anesthesia. All incisions are made inside the mouth, no visible scarring. Hooks are placed for retaining elastics for 4 weeks.
4 to 6 weeks after the operation, the final orthodontic movements resume as jaw mobility returns to normal.
Virtual surgical planning (VSP) helps the team visualize jaw movements and prepare the procedure around each patient’s anatomy.
Exact calculation of jaw movements in all 3 dimensions of space.
The patient can see the anticipated result even before the procedure.
Custom surgical guides for optimal precision during the procedure.
This term describes treatment that combines orthodontics with jaw surgery, also called orthognathic surgery. Dr Benguira plans the orthodontic care with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, who performs the operation when it is indicated.
Not necessarily. The options depend on growth, tooth and jaw position, function, and the patient’s goals. An assessment helps compare orthodontic and surgical approaches.
A chin that looks recessed may reflect lower jaw position or the shape of the chin itself. Orthognathic surgery changes jaw position; genioplasty changes the chin. The diagnosis determines which approach may be appropriate.
Before-and-after images can illustrate changes in facial profile and bite. Individual results depend on the diagnosis and treatment plan; another patient’s images cannot predict your result.
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, so there is no pain during the procedure. After the operation, swelling and discomfort are normal for 2 to 3 weeks, well managed with prescribed medication.
No. All incisions are made inside the mouth. No scars are visible on the face.
Return to work in 2-3 weeks. Return to sports in 6-8 weeks. Swelling gradually decreases over several weeks, with final results visible after a few months.
In some cases, orthodontic mini-screws (TADs) can help move teeth and avoid surgery. If the discrepancy mainly concerns jaw position, the orthodontist and surgeon assess the available options together.
Costs depend on the treatment plan, where surgery takes place, and applicable fees. Coverage for surgery and orthodontics varies with RAMQ criteria and your insurance plan. Our team can help you identify the questions to ask the relevant organizations before treatment.
For moderate cases, orthodontic mini-screws (TADs) allow previously impossible tooth movements, sometimes offering an alternative to surgery:
Only a complete evaluation can determine the best approach for your case.
Discover mini-screws (TADs) →
Orthodontic assessment in Saint-Eustache or Montreal • Coordination with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon when appropriate
Certified orthodontist with over 20 years of experience, Dr Benguira completed his orthodontic training at the Université de Montréal after a doctorate in dental medicine. A recognized specialist on the North Shore, he combines clinical expertise and cutting-edge technology to deliver exceptional results for every patient.