Orthognathic surgery is a surgical procedure for patients with advanced disorders of the jaw structure. Traditionally, this surgical process is accompanied by orthodontic treatment with metal brackets and wires. However, with the developing technology, clear aligner treatment (e.g. Invisalign) has become a preferred option for orthognathic surgery patients. So, is it possible to use clear aligners during orthognathic surgery? What advantages does this method offer to patients? Here are all the details...
How is Transparent Plate Therapy Used in Orthognathic Surgery?
Patients requiring orthognathic surgery usually undergo a two-stage orthodontic treatment:
- Preoperative Orthodontic Preparation: The teeth are brought into a certain alignment before the jaw surgery to ensure a more successful operation. Traditionally, this process was carried out with metal brackets, but nowadays it is also possible with transparent aligners in some cases.
- Orthodontic Correction After Surgery: After post-operative healing is complete, fine adjustments are made to the teeth. Transparent aligners offer a very effective alternative at this stage.
Advantages of Transparent Plates in Orthognathic Surgery
- Aesthetic Appearance
Transparent aligners offer patients a more aesthetic treatment process because they are almost invisible, unlike metal braces. It is a great advantage especially for adult patients who do not want to use metal braces in their social life.
2. Comfortable Use
Transparent aligners offer a more comfortable experience compared to metal brackets. Problems such as gum irritation and intraoral injuries are not experienced. In addition, the fact that the plaques can be removed while eating or brushing teeth helps to maintain oral hygiene more easily.
3. Shorter and Planned Treatment Process
In some cases, the use of transparent aligners can make the orthognathic surgery process more efficient. With digital planning, the movement of the aligners can be predetermined, which offers a more controlled orthodontic treatment process.
4. More Comfortable Adaptation After Surgery
After orthognathic surgery, patients usually have to wear braces supported by elastics for a certain period of time. Transparent aligners can be used in the postoperative phase and can help patients adapt more quickly.
Is the Use of Transparent Plates in Orthognathic Surgery Suitable for All Cases?
Clear aligner treatment may not be suitable for all patients requiring orthognathic surgery. Conventional metal brackets may be more effective, especially in extremely complex jaw deformities or in cases requiring large-scale tooth movements. Therefore, an individual assessment should be made for each patient and the most appropriate treatment method should be determined.
Transparent plate treatment in combination with orthognathic surgery offers significant advantages to patients in terms of aesthetics and comfort. However, since its applicability varies for each patient, the orthodontist and maxillofacial surgeon should decide together. If you want to get more information about the use of clear aligners in your orthognathic surgery process, you can create the most suitable treatment plan for you by contacting a specialist orthodontist.
If you are also considering transparent plaque treatment, please contact us contact Get on with it.