Some bite and jaw issues go beyond what braces or clear aligners can correct on their own. When the underlying skeletal structure of the jaw is the source of the issue, surgical orthodontics — also called orthognathic surgery — offers a way to achieve lasting results that orthodontic appliances alone simply cannot deliver. For patients in Jeffersonville and Southern Indiana, this collaborative approach brings together the skills of an orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to address complex jaw and bite issues that go beyond the reach of traditional treatment.
At McCullum Orthodontics, Dr. Heather McCullum has extensive experience coordinating surgical orthodontic care as part of a broader multidisciplinary approach. With over 14 years of clinical experience and specialty training from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry, Dr. McCullum works closely with trusted oral surgeons in the region to guide patients through every phase of treatment. If you have been told your bite cannot be fully corrected with braces alone, or if you are dealing with jaw discomfort, difficulty chewing, or facial asymmetry, surgical orthodontics may be the comprehensive solution you have been looking for.
Surgical orthodontics combines the expertise of an orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Rather than relying solely on orthodontic forces to move teeth, this approach involves repositioning the upper jaw (maxilla), the lower jaw (mandible), or both to establish a balanced bite and proper facial alignment. Braces or clear aligners are used before and after surgery to position the teeth correctly so they fit together properly once the jaw is in its new position.
This type of care is typically recommended for adults or older teens whose jaw growth is complete. While growth modification techniques like palatal expanders and Herbst appliances can address many skeletal issues in younger patients, those who have finished growing and still have significant jaw discrepancies are often the best candidates for a surgical approach. Patients who also experience TMD or jaw joint symptoms related to structural jaw problems are another common referral for surgical evaluation.
Surgical orthodontics is often recommended for patients experiencing a significant underbite, overbite, or open bite with a skeletal rather than dental cause; facial asymmetry due to uneven jaw growth; chronic jaw pain related to structural jaw problems; difficulty chewing or biting; speech challenges tied to jaw positioning; or obstructive sleep apnea connected to airway and jaw anatomy. According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, orthognathic surgery can significantly improve a patient’s ability to chew, speak, and breathe while enhancing facial appearance and oral health outcomes.
Surgical orthodontic treatment involves several stages requiring close coordination between Dr. McCullum and a trusted oral and maxillofacial surgeon.
Phase 1 — Diagnosis and Treatment Planning: A detailed diagnostic phase including 3D imaging, photographs, dental impressions, and review of jaw function and facial structure. Dr. McCullum and the oral surgeon develop a coordinated treatment plan tailored to your specific anatomy.
Phase 2 — Pre-Surgical Orthodontics: Braces or aligners are placed to align teeth in preparation for surgery — positioning them so they fit correctly once the jaw is repositioned. This phase typically lasts 12 to 18 months.
Phase 3 — Surgery: The procedure is performed by an oral surgeon in a hospital or surgical center under general anesthesia. Recovery generally involves a few weeks of restricted activity and a modified diet.
Phase 4 — Post-Surgical Orthodontics and Retention: Orthodontic treatment continues for several months to fine-tune the bite. After treatment, custom retainers — including in-office 3D-printed options — maintain your results long-term.
Coordinating surgical orthodontic treatment requires a high level of clinical expertise and clear communication between orthodontist and surgeon. Dr. McCullum brings over 14 years of experience, training from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry, and deep familiarity with complex, multidisciplinary cases. She approaches every patient with meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to results that are both functional and aesthetically meaningful.
McCullum Orthodontics partners with experienced oral surgeons in the Southern Indiana and Louisville region — including the team at Southern Indiana Oral Surgery right here in Jeffersonville — ensuring patients receive seamlessly coordinated care from evaluation through final retention. For patients who also have TMD or jaw joint concerns, this integrated approach can address both issues together. A complimentary orthodontic evaluation is the right first step.
Dr. Heather McCullum graduated as Valedictorian from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry, earning her DMD degree summa cum laude, and received the American Association of Orthodontists Award. She brings 14 years of clinical experience to every complex case and is equipped to coordinate surgical orthodontic care from initial evaluation through final retention. Flexible financing options are available. Contact McCullum Orthodontics today to schedule your complimentary consultation.
McCullum Orthodontics serves patients throughout Jeffersonville, New Albany, Charlestown, and Southern Indiana. Every first consultation is completely free and no referral is required. Flexible financing options are available. Contact us today to schedule your complimentary evaluation with Dr. McCullum.
McCullum Orthodontics is conveniently located in Jeffersonville, Indiana, serving patients throughout southern Indiana and the greater Louisville area.
