**5. Post-surgical orthodontics**

Approximately four to six weeks after surgery the patient should return to the orthodontist to begin post-surgical treatment. This short phase of orthodontic treatment postoperatively is necessary to detail the final occlusion and improve the stability of surgery. The goal is to settle the teeth in good occlusion and alignment and correct any possible skeletal relapse following surgery. Post-surgical orthodontics usually takes about six months and may involve use of intermaxillary elastics.

It is noteworthy to mention that precise and proper presurgical orthodontics minimalize postsurgical orthodontics. After debanding and debonding the patients should be provided with upper and lower retainers.

#### **5.1. Common mistakes in presurgical orthodontics**

### **The orthodontist should avoid:**

