Combined orthodontics

Jaw misalignment in children and youths is normally corrected with the assistance of removable function orthodontic devices. Their task is to steer the growth in the right direction. After the growth phase has been completed however, jaw misalignment can only be corrected by surgical measures referred to as a dysgnathy OP.

As a jaw misalignment almost always goes hand in hand with a misalignment of teeth, the accompanying of the operation with orthodontic measures is also necessary. The aim of the orthodontic treatment is the harmonius forming of the dental arches so that these match ideally after the operation. This is the reason why the close and trusting relationship between the orthodontist and the surgeon is of decisive importance for the success of the joint treatment.

This is the reason why a dysgnathia consultation is normally held at our Bochum practice on a monthly basis.036This consultation at our practice is attended by Prof. Dr.Dr. Eufinger vom Knappschaftskrankenhaus Hospital Recklinghausen. We then advise the patients who are interested in a combined orthodontic-surgical treatment together. This means that our patients do not need to go to a hospital for a surgical consultation.

The primary treatment aim is the restoration of a perfect functioning of your dentures and this is the reason why the statutory health insurance companies and most of the private insurance companies and civil servant aid agencies bear the costs. The second treatment aim is always the restoration of the facial aesthetics which is a fundamental motivation for treatment as far as many of the patients are concerned.

A combined orthodontic-surgical treatment normally commences with the preliminary orthodontic treatment with the assistance of a permanent dental bracket. The most diverse versions are possible here, enabling us to also satisfy the needs of aesthetically demanding patients. After the dental arches have been ideally formed, the ensuing operation is initially simulated in a chewing simulator, referred to as an articulator with the assistance of X-Ray images and denture models. The patient is then hospitalised for approx. 3-4 nights. During the repositioning surgery, the bone of the upper and/or lower jaw is separated, placed in the planned position and then stabilized with small titanium miniplates. The entire operation takes placed under general anaesthesia, access being gained via the oral cavity, so that no incisions or scars are visible from the outside whatsoever.

After the operation, the permanent dental bracket remains in the mouth for a period of between three and six months, as it will be reqried for the fine adjustment of the dentures after the operation. This is also when the titanium miniplates are also removed during a minor operation that is often carried out as an outpatient.

After the permanent dental bracket has been removed, the result of the entire treatment is stabilized for an appropriate amount of time. If desired, the stabilization can be carried out using retention devices that are almost invisible.