Surgical Orthodontics

Comprehensive Care for Complex Jaw and Bite Problems

Some orthodontic concerns extend beyond what braces or aligners alone can correct. Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, combines orthodontic treatment with corrective jaw surgery to realign the jaws and teeth for healthier function and balance.

At Milwaukee Orthodontics, Dr. Neil Chandok has advanced training and extensive experience managing complex cases. During his residency at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) Department of Orthodontics—one of the nation’s leading centers for surgical orthodontic education—Dr. Chandok worked closely with oral and maxillofacial surgeons to coordinate care for patients with significant jaw discrepancies and facial asymmetries.

Today, he brings that expertise to Milwaukee, helping patients achieve lasting improvements in function, comfort, and facial aesthetics through collaborative, evidence‑based care.

What Is Surgical Orthodontics?

Surgical orthodontics is used to correct significant jaw or bite discrepancies that cannot be resolved with braces or aligners alone. Treatment is carefully coordinated between Dr. Chandok and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to reposition the jaws, improve alignment, and restore proper bite mechanics.

This approach not only enhances facial balance and symmetry, it can also improve chewing, speech, and breathing. For many adults, surgical orthodontics offers both functional correction and a meaningful boost in overall facial appearance.

When Might Surgical Orthodontics Be Recommended?

Surgical orthodontics may be necessary when jaw growth or alignment is outside the range that orthodontic appliances alone can manage. Dr. Chandok may recommend surgical treatment for conditions such as:

  • Significant overbites, underbites, or open bites
  • Crossbites caused by skeletal discrepancies
  • Severe crowding or spacing that braces alone can’t correct
  • Facial asymmetry or disproportion due to jaw misalignment
  • Jaw trauma or injury affecting alignment and function
  • Obstructive airway issues related to jaw position

Before considering surgery, Dr. Chandok performs a comprehensive orthodontic evaluation with digital imaging and 3D diagnostic tools to assess the relationship between your teeth, jaw joints, and facial structure. In some cases, orthodontic treatment alone can provide sufficient improvement—but when surgery is indicated, it is carefully planned to achieve the best balance of form and function.

What to Expect During Surgical Orthodontic Treatment

The process typically involves three stages. Depending on case complexity, treatment may take 12–24 months, and the long‑term improvements in function and aesthetics can be transformative.

Pre-surgical orthodontics

Before surgery, braces or aligners are used to position the teeth in preparation for the surgical phase. This alignment ensures that when the jaws are repositioned, your teeth fit together properly for a stable, healthy bite.

Corrective jaw surgery

An oral and maxillofacial surgeon performs the procedure in a hospital or surgical center to reposition one or both jaws into a healthier, more functional position. Surgery is typically done under general anesthesia, and most patients go home within a few days.

Post-surgical orthodontics

After surgery, Dr. Chandok fine‑tunes your bite and alignment using braces or clear aligners to refine the result and promote long‑term stability.

Who Is a Candidate for Surgical Orthodontics?

Surgical orthodontics is generally reserved for adults and older teens whose jaw growth is complete, typically around ages 16–18 and older. You may be a good candidate if you experience any of the following:

  • Difficulty biting, chewing, or speaking
  • Jaw pain, tension, or discomfort
  • Noticeable asymmetry or imbalance in facial features
  • Excessive tooth wear or shifting due to bite misalignment
  • Breathing difficulties related to jaw structure

If you’re unsure whether you might benefit from this type of care, Dr. Chandok will complete a detailed evaluation and discuss all options—from non‑surgical orthodontic approaches to coordinated surgical care—so you can make an informed decision.

Why Choose Dr.Chandok for Surgical Orthodontic Care?

While Milwaukee Orthodontics does not perform jaw surgery in‑office, Dr. Chandok partners with highly skilled oral surgeons and guides patients through every step—from the initial consultation to post‑surgical orthodontic refinement.

Advanced surgical training

Dr. Chandok completed his residency at the University of Illinois Chicago Department of Orthodontics, one of the country’s top programs for surgical orthodontics and interdisciplinary treatment.

Collaborative expertise

He works closely with trusted oral and maxillofacial surgeons throughout the Milwaukee area to ensure seamless, well‑coordinated care tailored to your needs.

Comprehensive diagnostics

Milwaukee Orthodontics uses advanced digital tools, including 3D imaging and precise treatment planning, to design individualized plans for each patient.

Balanced
approach

Dr. Chandok plans with both aesthetics and function in mind—improving how your smile looks, feels, and performs for long‑term stability and comfort.

Your brighter smile is just an appointment away!