Imagine finally smiling without hiding your jaw, eating without pain, and sleeping through the night because your bite and airway are actually working together. If you’ve ever felt overshadowed by jaw-related discomfort or self-conscious about your facial profile, you’re not alone. At Ortho Inc. we understand how jaw misalignment can weigh on your confidence, your health—and even your daily conversation. In this post, we’ll explore orthodontic surgery in Cortez, why it might be the life-changing step you’re seeking, and how our Cortez team guides you toward a healthier, happier smile.
What Exactly Is Orthodontic Surgery?
Orthodontic surgery, often called orthognathic surgery, is corrective jaw surgery designed to reposition the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both—correcting bite issues, improving facial harmony, and even helping with airway problems like sleep apnea. This isn’t just braces: it’s a combination of oral surgery and orthodontics tailored to your bones, not just your teeth.
Why You Might Need It: Beyond Braces
Sometimes, teeth aren’t the real problem—it’s the jaws. Conditions like severe underbite, overbite, open bite, or facial asymmetry often can’t be fixed with braces alone. Orthodontic surgery is typically recommended when:
- Your upper and lower teeth don’t meet properly.
- Chewing, biting, or speaking causes chronic discomfort.
- TMJ pain or chronic headaches won’t go away with non‑surgical treatments.
- You have obstructive sleep apnea related to jaw alignment.
- You feel self-conscious about your jaw’s appearance.
This surgery often changes lives—not just smiles—by resolving functional issues and boosting confidence.
The Different Types of Orthodontic Surgery
Corrective jaw procedures are personalized, but the most common include:
- Maxillary (Le Fort I) osteotomy – shifts the upper jaw (maxilla) up, down, forward, or backward.
- Mandibular (bilateral sagittal split) osteotomy – repositions the lower jaw (mandible) forward or back.
- Genioplasty – reshapes or repositions the chin for improved profile balance.
- Double‑jaw surgery – both jaws are corrected in cases of combined issues.
For severe midface issues, procedures like Le Fort III osteotomy may be recommended.
The Collaborative Journey: Teamwork Is Key
This is a collaborative process involving multiple specialists. Orthognathic surgery is a team effort involving:
- Orthodontists (like us at Ortho Inc.) who align your teeth pre‑ and post‑surgery.
- Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons (like the ones in Cortez) who perform the surgery.
- Medical specialists for airway or TMJ-related complications.
- Often ENT specialists when airway support is part of the plan.
We work together on detailed treatment planning—including 3D scans and virtual simulations—to ensure precision and predictability.
Step‑By‑Step: What to Expect
- Diagnosis & Planning: We’ll take X‑rays, digital scans, and possibly CT imaging. Together with surgeons, we simulate your future jaw position. It’s all about creating a personalized roadmap.
- Pre‑Surgical Orthodontics: Braces are placed 12–18 months before surgery to align teeth properly for the big move.
- Surgical Phase: Surgery lasts 1–4 hours under general anesthesia. Surgeons cut and reposition your jaw(s), securing them with plates and screws.
- Healing & Hospital Stay: Expect 1–3 days in a surgical facility. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common but manageable with medications and supportive care.
- Post‑Surgical Orthodontics: Braces stay on for another 6–12 months to refine your bite alignment.
- Recovery Timeline: Jaw swelling reduces significantly by six weeks, but full recovery can take up to a year.
Benefits That Last a Lifetime
- Improved Bite & Chewing Function: No more struggling with food or speech.
- Reduced TMJ Pain & Headaches: Aligning the jaw eases muscle strain and joint stress.
- Clearer Breathing & Better Sleep: Especially helpful for those with jaw-related sleep apnea.
- Balanced Facial Aesthetics: A harmonized profile boosts self-esteem and confidence.
- Long-Term Oral Health: Proper alignment helps prevent tooth wear, gum issues, and future dental costs.
Risks & Realistic Expectations
Orthognathic surgery is safe, with success rates over 90%, but it’s still major surgery. Possible risks include:
- Infection, bleeding, temporary numbness, or unpleasant healing phases.
- Slight relapse of jaw positioning in rare cases.
- Potential need for minor follow-up procedures.
But careful planning, expert surgical technique, and robust aftercare minimize these risks—and lead to outstanding long-term outcomes.
Why Ortho Inc. Is the Right Choice in Cortez
Located at 101 S Maple St, Cortez, CO, we’ve been recognized as a community leader in orthodontics and surgical collaboration. Here’s why our patients trust us:
- State-of-the-Art Technology – Digital 3D imaging, virtual planning, and precision tools.
- Experienced Team – Skilled orthodontists coordinating with oral surgeons and surgeons in Cortez.
- Personalized Care – We guide you through every step—diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.
- Patient-Centric Environment – Warm support, clear communication, and strong follow-up.
- Flexible, Affordable Plans – We work with insurance and offer payment solutions.
Real Stories, Real Transformations
Many patients come to us after years of struggling—like sleep apnea, jaw pain, or being unhappy with their profile. With orthodontic surgery, they:
- Wake refreshed after sleep.
- Eat comfortably without pain.
- Smile freely and confidently in photos.
- Feel finally aligned on the inside and out.
These aren’t just smiles—they’re life regained.
How to Take the First Step
If you’ve been told your bite is too complex for Braces in Cortez alone—or you’re tired of jaw pain, speech issues, or restless sleep—it’s time to explore orthodontic surgery. Here’s how to start:
- Book a Free Consultation at Ortho Inc. in Cortez.
- Bring Recent X‑rays if you have them.
- Meet Our Team—your orthodontist and surgeon will explain your options.
- Receive a Complete Treatment Plan that spans braces, surgery, and recovery, with timelines and cost estimates.
- Start Your Transformation—confidently, comfortably, guided the whole way.
If you’re in Cortez and considering orthodontic surgery, let’s discuss your options. Contact Ortho Inc. at (970) 565‑3531 or visit us at 101 S Maple St, Cortez, CO 81321.
Schedule a consultation to explore whether surgery is right for your smile, health, and lifestyle. Together, we’ll plan your path to long-lasting wellness and confidence.
