Surgical Orthodontics in San Diego, CA
Specialized orthognathic care for severe jaw irregularities — Dr. Jerome partners with leading oral surgeons to plan and guide your treatment.
Advanced jaw correction for life-changing results
Surgical orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a specialized treatment used to correct severe jaw irregularities that cannot be resolved with braces or aligners alone. At Signature Orthodontics, Dr. John R. Jerome works closely with oral surgeons to develop customized treatment plans.
What is Orthognathic Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery is corrective jaw surgery performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. It addresses skeletal conditions that braces or aligners alone cannot resolve.
Severe Underbite or Overbite
Significant skeletal misalignment that impacts function and appearance.
Jaw Asymmetry
Uneven jaw growth that affects facial balance and bite.
Open Bite
Front or back teeth that don't meet — not correctable with orthodontics alone.
Difficulty Chewing or Biting
Functional issues with eating, biting, or swallowing.
TMJ Disorders
Temporomandibular joint pain or dysfunction tied to skeletal structure.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Breathing issues during sleep linked to jaw position and airway shape.
When is Surgical Orthodontics Necessary?
Three key indicators help us determine when orthognathic surgery is the right path forward.
Skeletal Maturity
Typically recommended after growth has stopped — around age 16 for females and 18 for males.
Jawbone Misalignment
When the misalignment involves the jawbone itself rather than just the position of the teeth.
Beyond Braces Alone
When traditional braces or aligners can't fully correct the underlying skeletal issue.
The Role of Dr. John R. Jerome
Dr. Jerome specializes in diagnosing complex orthodontic and skeletal issues — guiding you through every phase of your surgical journey.
Recovery and Results
A guided, supported recovery — from your first post-op week through your final result.
Initial Recovery
A few weeks of downtime immediately following surgery.
Dietary Adjustments
Soft foods during the early healing phase to support proper recovery.
Continued Orthodontics
Ongoing braces or aligners for several months to fine-tune your bite.
Regular Check-Ins
Coordinated follow-ups with both your surgeon and Dr. Jerome.
What Our Patients Are Saying
Hundreds of happy smiles and counting. Here's what our patients have to say.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Meet Dr. Jerome, tour our San Diego office, and discover the right treatment for your smile.