Orthognathic Surgery and Orthodontics: Inadequate Planning Leading to Complications or Unfavorable Results

Complications in orthognathic surgery are commonly a result of inadequate preoperative planning and communication between the surgeon and orthodontist. Unfavorable outcomes can often be avoided when overall treatment goals along with a surgical and orthodontic plan are developed and agreed upon by the orthodontist, surgeon, and patient before the start of active tooth movement or any surgical procedures. Continuous evaluation of the patient's progress throughout treatment and subsequent communication between the surgeon and orthodontist are recommended to prevent frequent errors, such as inadequate dental decompensation, poor appliance selection or management, and occasional contraindicated orthodontic elastic traction or tooth movements.