Key Points
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Discusses the rationale and indications for a combined orthodontic and orthognathic approach, in accordance with the recently introduced assessment of treatment need.
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Provides a detailed account of the orthognathic patient journey, including the key stages of planning, orthodontic preparation, finishing and surgical approaches.
Abstract
Orthognathic treatment is a process which involves orthodontics and maxillofacial surgery and is used to treat those dento-facial discrepancies which are outside the scope of conventional orthodontic treatment, for example severe Class II or Class III problems, anterior open bites and facial asymmetries. Patients who present with these severe problems may encounter a wide range of different problems ranging from functional problems (for example, difficulties biting and chewing) to self-consciousness in a wide range of work and social situations. This paper discusses the possible indications for orthognathic treatment and looks at the risks and benefits of treatment. The treatment pathway is also described.
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Acknowledgements
Many thanks to the patients who allowed their photographs to be used in this publication. Thank you to: Mr Tim Lloyd (Maxillofacial Surgeon, Eastman Dental Hospital, UCLH Foundation Trust) who undertook the surgery for the patients whose photographs are shown in Figures 1, 2, 3, 7 and 8, and also to Mr Neil Patel for the photographs in Figure 2 and Mr Tom McDonald for the photographs in Figure 5.
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Cunningham, S., Johal, A. Orthognathic correction of dento-facial discrepancies. Br Dent J 218, 167–175 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.2015.49
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.2015.49
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