Scope and limitations of orthognathic surgery

Modern orthognathic surgical procedures allow correction of bony disproportion in almost any part of the face, but are limited in the fine tuning of tooth position and occlusion. However, carefully planned combined surgical and orthodontic treatment can produce dental and skeletal results of a high standard. If a GDP is presented with a malocclusion beyond the scope of normal orthodontic treatment, then referral to an oral surgery/orthodontic clinic is indicated. This article provides an overview of what the team on such a clinic can achieve.