Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities. When considering the question, “what is an orthodontist?”, it is essential to understand that these professionals play a critical role in improving both the functionality and aesthetics of a person’s smile.
This article will explain what an orthodontist does, the common issues they address, and how they can help you or your child achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
What Is An Orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has received additional training and education, typically two to three years beyond dental school.
These professionals specialize in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of misaligned teeth and jaws. They are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to straighten teeth, correct bites, and improve overall oral health.
What Does An Orthodontist Do?
The primary goal of an orthodontist is to help patients achieve a healthy bite.
A “bite” refers to how the upper and lower teeth come together when the mouth is closed. When the bite is not aligned correctly, it can cause various issues such as difficulty chewing or speaking, increased risk of cavities or gum disease, and even facial pain.
Orthodontists use a variety of tools and techniques to straighten teeth and correct bites. These may include traditional braces, clear aligners, expanders, headgear, or other appliances.
They work closely with their patients to develop personalized treatment plans that address individual needs and desired outcomes.
Common Issues Treated by Orthodontists
Orthodontists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of dental issues. Some of the most common problems they address include:
- Crowded teeth: When there is not enough space in the jaw for all the teeth to fit comfortably, it can result in crowding. This can make it challenging to clean properly between teeth, increasing the risk of tooth decay or gum disease.
- Crooked teeth: Misaligned or crooked teeth can affect a person’s bite and overall appearance. They may also make it challenging to chew food properly, leading to digestive issues.
- Overbite/underbite/crossbite: These terms refer to specific types of malocclusions (or misalignments of the teeth). An overbite is when the upper front teeth overlap significantly with the lower front teeth, while an underbite is when the lower front teeth protrude beyond the upper front teeth. A crossbite occurs when some of the upper teeth sit inside the lower ones when biting down.
- Open bite/overjet: An open bite is when the front upper and lower teeth do not touch when biting down. This can cause difficulties with chewing and may contribute to speech problems. An overjet refers to the horizontal distance between the upper and lower front teeth. When it is too large, it can put stress on the jaw muscles and cause discomfort.
Treatments Offered by Orthodontists
Orthodontists offer a range of treatments to address various dental issues. These treatments are designed to move teeth into the correct position, improve bite function, and enhance aesthetic appeal.
Traditional Braces
Traditional metal braces are the most common type of orthodontic treatment. They consist of metal brackets and wires that gradually move teeth into their proper positions.
Modern braces are smaller, more comfortable, and less noticeable than those of the past.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces function similarly to traditional metal braces but are made of tooth-colored materials that blend with natural teeth.
This makes them a popular choice for teens and adults who want a more discreet option.
Invisalign
Invisalign is a revolutionary treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth.
These aligners are virtually invisible and can be taken out for eating and cleaning, making them a convenient and aesthetically pleasing option.
Self-Ligating Braces
Self-ligating braces use a specialized clip instead of elastic bands to hold the wire in place.
This results in less friction and discomfort and often requires fewer adjustments, reducing the number of office visits.
How Orthodontic Treatment Can Help
Orthodontic treatment can provide numerous benefits beyond just straightening teeth.
Some of these include:
- Improved oral health: Straighter teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues.
- Better chewing and digestion: Properly aligned teeth make it easier to chew food thoroughly, aiding in digestion.
- Enhanced speech: Correcting bite issues can also improve speech and pronunciation.
- Boosted confidence: A healthy, beautiful smile can boost self-esteem and confidence, leading to improved social interactions and overall well-being.
The Orthodontic Treatment Process
The first step in receiving orthodontic treatment is to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist.
During this appointment, the orthodontist will conduct a thorough examination and discuss any concerns or goals you may have.
They may also take X-rays and impressions of your teeth to aid in creating a personalized treatment plan.
Once a treatment plan has been established, the orthodontist will begin the process of moving your teeth into their desired positions. This can take anywhere from several months to a few years, depending on the severity of your case.
Regular check-ups and adjustments are necessary throughout the treatment process to ensure progress is being made and make any necessary changes.
The Importance of Early Orthodontic Intervention
While orthodontic treatment is most commonly associated with teenagers, it can be beneficial for patients of all ages.
In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7.
Early intervention can help identify and address potential issues before they become more severe, potentially reducing the need for extensive treatment in the future.
Conclusion
Orthodontic treatment goes beyond just straightening teeth.
It can improve overall oral health, enhance bite function, and boost self-confidence.
With a variety of treatment options available, orthodontists work with their patients to develop personalized plans that address individual needs and desired outcomes.
And now that you know what an orthodontist is, you can see how important their care and early intervention is when it comes to promoting optimal oral health.
Ready to take the next step? Schedule a free consultation with MP Orthodontics today and discover how we can help create a beautiful, healthy smile for your child. Our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way!