[A multidisciplinary approach to orthognathic surgery]

Orthodontists are precisely aware of their therapeutic limits in dealing with maxillofacial dysmorphia. Unstable results and iatrogenic lesions caused by alveolo-dental compensations for displacements of the skeletal base have convinced them of the importance of orthognathic surgery as a complement to their orthodontic treatments. Collaboration between the orthodontist and the maxillofacial surgeon begins as of the moment a displacement of the skeletal bases is established through clinical and cephalometric diagnosis. Due to factors related to their age and dental history, it is necessary to complement the therapeutic provision for adult patients with the provision of a multidisciplinary team. The dentist and the family doctor take part in the decision regarding the treatment to be administered, they provide advice to their patients and treat them according to the chosen therapeutic sequence. Other practitioners are involved, including the physiotherapist or speech therapist, depending on the clinical requirements. This multidisciplinary approach and collaboration are conducive to the quality of the results and patient satisfaction.