Surgical orthodontics or orthognathic surgery is a combined treatment by an orthodontist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. This is done to correct jaw abnormalities such as too small or large of an upper or lower jaw or a combination of both. X-rays and models are taken to diagnose a patient's particular problem.

The orthodontist initially straightens and aligns the teeth in the jaw bone. This can take six to twelve months depending on the severity of the problem. Then, the jaws are surgically positioned into a more normal position. This achieves, not only a functional improvement, but, an esthetic change of the face as well.