Surgical Orthodontics in Sydney
- Complex cases, carefully planned
- Custom orthodontics before and after surgery
- Digital planning for confident next steps
When the teeth and jaws do not fit together correctly, orthodontics alone may not be enough. At Love That Smile, we provide specialist orthodontic planning for patients who may need jaw surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, to improve bite function, facial balance and long-term stability.
Orthodontics and jaw surgery, working together
Surgical orthodontics combines orthodontic treatment with orthognathic jaw surgery to correct more complex bite and jaw alignment problems.
This treatment is usually considered when the position of the upper jaw, lower jaw or both jaws affects how the teeth meet, how the face is balanced, or how the bite functions day to day.
At Love That Smile, our role is to carefully diagnose, plan and coordinate the orthodontic stages of treatment, working alongside an oral and maxillofacial surgeon when jaw surgery is required.
What can surgical orthodontics correct?
- Severe underbite or Class III bite
- Significant overbite or Class II bite
- Open bite, where the front teeth do not meet
- Facial asymmetry related to jaw position
- Bimaxillary surgery cases involving both jaws
If you think your bite problem may involve more than tooth position, book a consultation with our specialist orthodontic team and we’ll guide you through your options clearly.
Benefits of
surgical orthodontic
treatment
With the right planning, surgical orthodontics can help create a result that feels more balanced, more comfortable and better suited to the way you live every day.
Better bite function
Orthodontic surgery can help improve how the upper and lower teeth fit together, supporting chewing, speech and long-term oral function.
Improved facial balance
In selected cases, jaw alignment surgery can improve the relationship between the jaws and create a more balanced facial profile.
More stable results
For some patients, combining orthodontics with orthognathic treatment allows us to address the underlying jaw position, not just move the teeth.
Step-by-step
proccess
Consultation and diagnosis
We begin with a comprehensive orthodontic assessment to understand your teeth, bite, jaw position and facial structure. This may include digital scans, clinical photographs, X-rays and, when required, CBCT 3D imaging for a more detailed view of the jaws and surrounding structures.
Treatment planning
We use advanced digital tools such as Dolphin imaging software, 3D records and digital scans to assess the relationship between the teeth, jaws and facial profile. If orthognathic surgery is recommended, we coordinate the orthodontic plan with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Pre-surgical orthodontics
Braces or clear aligners may be used before surgery to position the teeth correctly so the jaws can be aligned more accurately.
Orthognathic jaw surgery
The surgical stage is carried out by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. This may involve upper jaw surgery, lower jaw surgery or bimaxillary surgery, depending on the case.
Post-surgical orthodontics and retention
After recovery, orthodontic treatment continues to refine the bite. Once treatment is complete, retainers help maintain the final result.
SURGICAL ORTHODONTIST IN SYDNEY
At Love That Smile, treatment is led by Dr Lalli, a specialist orthodontist with more than 20 years of experience in orthodontics. His approach is precise, calm and highly detailed, with a strong focus on achieving a stable bite and a well-planned result rather than rushing treatment.
Our wider clinical team also brings valuable academic insight into complex orthodontic and orthognathic cases. Dr Meli has contributed to academic research on the surgery-first orthognathic approach, published in APOS Trends in Orthodontics.
This combination of clinical experience, academic knowledge and digital planning helps us assess complex malocclusions, jaw discrepancies and facial asymmetry with clarity — so every patient understands their options before taking the next step.
Why patients choose Love That Smile
At Love That Smile, we take the time to assess your case, explain the plan clearly, and guide you through each stage.
Prestige
20 years’ experience, over 7,000 orthodontic cases treated and countless happy patients. Quality and assurance for those who want the very best.
Expertise
Orthodontics only — all ages, all techniques, innovative technology and the most accurate diagnosis, even for complex cases.
Experience
Warm, attentive care with personalised treatment plans. Every detail considered, for your smile and your overall wellbeing.No rushed appointments, no pressure decisions.
Choose your clinic
Flexible payment options
Frequently Asked Questions about braces
What type of orthodontics is used: braces or clear aligners?
Both braces and clear aligners may be used in orthodontic jaw surgery cases. The right option depends on the complexity of the bite, the movements required and the surgical plan.
Braces are often used for more complex surgical orthodontic cases because they offer strong control over tooth movement. However, clear aligners may be suitable for selected patients, depending on the diagnosis and treatment goals.
At what age can orthognathic surgery be done?
Orthognathic surgery is usually carried out once jaw growth is complete. This is typically in the late teenage years or adulthood, although the exact timing varies from person to person.
For younger patients, we may monitor growth and use orthodontic treatment to guide development where appropriate. Surgery, if needed, is usually planned later when the jaws have finished growing.
How long does surgical orthodontic treatment take?
Surgical orthodontic treatment is usually completed in stages, and the total time depends on the complexity of the bite and jaw relationship.
As a general guide, pre-surgical orthodontics may take 12–18 months to prepare the teeth for surgery. The orthognathic surgery procedure is then carried out by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, followed by an initial recovery period of around 4–6 weeks.
After surgery, most patients continue with orthodontic treatment for a further 6–12 months to refine the bite and final tooth position. Overall, treatment often takes around 18–30 months, although your exact timeline will be discussed after a full assessment.
What is recovery like after surgical orthodontic treatment?
Recovery after jaw surgery varies depending on the type of procedure, whether one or both jaws are involved, and your individual healing response.
Most patients need a period of rest after surgery, with swelling, discomfort and changes to eating being common in the first few weeks. Your oral and maxillofacial surgeon will provide detailed recovery instructions, including diet, medication, oral hygiene and follow-up care.
From an orthodontic perspective, we continue to monitor your bite as healing progresses. Once your surgeon confirms you are ready, we begin the final orthodontic stage to fine-tune the result and support long-term stability.
How much does surgical orthodontics cost in Sydney?
The cost of surgical orthodontics varies depending on the complexity of the orthodontic treatment, the type of jaw surgery required, hospital costs, surgeon fees and whether one or both jaws are involved.
Because this treatment involves both orthodontic care and surgery, an accurate fee can only be provided after a full consultation and treatment plan. At Love That Smile, we will clearly explain the orthodontic costs involved and guide you through the next steps if a referral to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon is needed.
We also offer flexible payment options for orthodontic treatment, which can be discussed during your consultation.
