Not every smile can be corrected with braces or aligners alone. When severe jaw misalignment, facial imbalance, or bite problems interfere with daily life, surgical orthodontics may be the best path forward. At Cassinelli, Shanker & Associates Orthodontics, we provide comprehensive surgical orthodontic care in West Chester Township, OH—designed to restore harmony, function, and aesthetics for patients who need more than traditional treatment.
With our expert team and trusted oral surgery partners, we help guide patients through every step of jaw surgery—from planning and preparation to post-surgical orthodontics and lasting smile results.
West Chester Township Surgical Orthodontics Specialist
Dr. Alex Cassinelli and Dr. Shiv Shanker are board-certified orthodontists with advanced experience in complex bite correction and interdisciplinary treatment. We regularly collaborate with skilled oral and maxillofacial surgeons to correct jaw irregularities and coordinate care for patients needing surgical intervention.
Whether you’re an adult with untreated skeletal issues or a teen with growth-related concerns, we’ll work closely with you (and your referring provider, if applicable) to build a safe, effective, and personalized surgical orthodontic plan.
What Is Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontics—also known as orthognathic surgery—involves repositioning the upper or lower jaw to correct significant misalignments that can’t be resolved with braces or aligners alone. It’s typically recommended for adult patients whose jaw growth is complete and whose bite or facial imbalance affects function, health, or appearance.
Conditions that may require surgical orthodontics include:
- Severe overbite or underbite
- Open bite or deep bite
- Facial asymmetry
- Chronic jaw pain or TMJ issues
- Difficulty chewing, biting, or speaking
- Obstructive sleep apnea related to jaw position
How Does Surgical Orthodontics Work?
The process typically involves three main stages:
- Pre-surgical orthodontics — We align your teeth into ideal positions in preparation for surgery (usually 12–18 months of braces or aligners).
- Orthognathic surgery — Performed by an oral surgeon, the jaw is repositioned to achieve proper alignment and function. This may involve the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both.
- Post-surgical orthodontics — Once the jaw has healed (6–12 weeks), we make final adjustments to your bite and tooth alignment.
The full treatment timeline can range from 18 to 30 months depending on the complexity of your case.
Is Jaw Surgery Right for You?
Surgical orthodontics is typically recommended when:
- The bite problem is caused by skeletal discrepancies, not just tooth misalignment
- Braces or aligners alone cannot create a healthy, functional bite
- You are finished growing (usually age 17+ for females, 18+ for males)
- You experience discomfort, difficulty chewing, or aesthetic concerns due to jaw position
- A surgical correction will improve long-term oral health and quality of life
At your complimentary exam, we’ll evaluate your bite, jaw structure, and goals to determine if surgical treatment is necessary—or if alternative therapies can work for you.
Cost of Surgical Orthodontics in West Chester Township, OH
Because surgical orthodontics involves both orthodontic treatment and oral surgery, costs can vary widely based on your individual needs.
Here’s what to expect:
- Orthodontic portion — Your braces or aligners will be included in your treatment estimate.
- Surgical portion — Handled by a separate oral and maxillofacial surgeon; your medical insurance may help cover this.
- Insurance coordination — We’ll work with both dental and medical insurance providers to help maximize your coverage.
- Payment plans — Flexible financing options available for the orthodontic portion of care.
- Transparent estimates — We’ll outline all treatment phases and costs clearly before any procedures begin.
We’re here to help you navigate every step—clinically and financially.
Benefits of Surgical Orthodontics at Cassinelli, Shanker & Associates
Choosing the right team makes all the difference—especially when treatment is complex. When you trust our West Chester Township orthodontists with your surgical orthodontic care, you receive:
- A collaborative team approach with oral surgeons, general dentists, and specialists
- Precise digital imaging and bite analysis
- Step-by-step guidance through all phases of treatment
- Expertise in facial growth and development, ensuring accurate surgical planning
- Supportive follow-up care through recovery and final smile refinement
We treat surgical cases with the same warmth and attention to detail we bring to every patient—so you feel informed, cared for, and confident from start to finish.
Who Benefits Most from Surgical Orthodontics?
Surgical orthodontic treatment can dramatically improve both function and appearance for patients with:
- Significant overbite or underbite
- An open bite (front teeth don’t touch when biting down)
- Asymmetrical facial growth
- Difficulty chewing, biting, or speaking due to jaw position
- Long-term jaw pain or joint strain
- A desire to improve facial aesthetics or confidence when smiling
If your bite or jaw alignment is affecting your daily life, a surgical consultation may be the first step toward lasting relief.
Life During and After Surgical Orthodontics
We know jaw surgery sounds intimidating—but we’ll guide you through it every step of the way.
Here’s what the process typically looks like:
- Before surgery — You’ll wear braces or aligners to position your teeth. We’ll meet regularly to monitor progress.
- Surgery — Performed under general anesthesia at a hospital or surgery center by your oral surgeon. Most patients stay 1–2 nights.
- Recovery — Swelling and discomfort are normal for the first few weeks. A soft-food diet is often required.
- Post-surgical phase — Once healed, we’ll fine-tune your bite and complete treatment.
- Final results — Improved facial balance, bite function, and smile appearance—often with a boost in confidence and comfort.
Every patient’s journey is unique, and we’ll tailor our approach to meet your needs and pace.
Why Choose Cassinelli, Shanker & Associates?
Surgical orthodontic treatment requires more than just experience—it demands trust, communication, and collaboration. Our team brings all of that and more.
Why patients choose us:
- Board-certified orthodontists with surgical case experience
- Close coordination with top oral surgeons in the West Chester area
- Advanced 3D imaging and treatment planning
- Compassionate, step-by-step care from start to finish
- Trusted by local dentists, patients, and families for over two decades
We don’t just align teeth—we help restore confidence, function, and quality of life for patients with complex needs.
Considering jaw surgery? Schedule a complimentary exam at our West Chester Township office to get expert insight and a personalized treatment plan.
Surgical Orthodontics FAQs for West Chester Township Residents
Is jaw surgery painful?
Most patients experience soreness and swelling, but pain is manageable with prescribed medication and supportive care.
Will I need to have my jaw wired shut?
In most modern procedures, no. Plates and screws are used to stabilize the jaw, allowing for more comfort and mobility during recovery.
How long is recovery?
Initial healing takes 6–8 weeks. Full recovery, including final orthodontic finishing, may take several months.
Is this only for adults?
Surgical orthodontics is usually reserved for patients whose jaw growth is complete—typically older teens and adults.
Can insurance help cover the cost?
Yes. Medical insurance often covers part or all of the surgery, especially if it’s medically necessary. We’ll help with documentation and coordination.