An orthodontist is a specialist who fixes the way your teeth line up. They use braces (metal or ceramic squares attached to your teeth by wires applying constant pressure) as well other appliances, such as retainers and headgear.
Orthodontics from Smilebar can correct overbites or underbites. It can also fix open bites as well as other misaligned teeth or jaws. These problems will get worse if they are not treated. The best orthodontists have board certification.
A visit to an orthodontist
Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry which focuses on the alignment of teeth and jaws. Orthodontists can use other methods to close gaps and straighten teeth. Orthodontists work with patients of all ages to correct these problems. They also try to prevent future problems by identifying and treating the conditions that can lead to such issues in the first place.
General dentists are experts in treating a wide range issues such as tooth decay, gum disease and other dental problems. However, they do not have the expertise to align teeth or adjust the way the bite functions. When a general dentist notices that a patient has crowded or misaligned teeth, they will refer them to an orthodontist.
The orthodontist will ask you to sit down and examine your mouth. They may want to see your mouth open wide and your teeth bitten together in order to get a better picture of your teeth and jaws. This information helps them decide what method to use to get you teeth in a healthier and attractive position.
You may receive a tray filled with gooey material that you will press against your top teeth and bottom teeth to create an impression or mold of the shape of your mouth. This will help your orthodontist decide how to straighten the teeth. They might also recommend that you wear a retainer or use other appliances to maintain the new alignment of your teeth after your treatment is complete.
In addition to repairing malocclusions, or misaligned teeth and jaws, orthodontists can also help with cosmetic concerns. For example, they can remove crooked teeth, close large gaps between your teeth, and repair teeth that are chipped or discolored. Orthodontists may bond or veneer these damaged teeth to improve the appearance.
Your general dentist may refer you to an orthodontist for other reasons, such as pulling teeth and root canals. A general dentist is not trained to perform these procedures, or to put you under anesthesia during them. Orthodontists, who are specially trained in this area, can perform these types of procedures while you are asleep.
You’ll receive a diagnosis
Orthodontists are specialists in the treatment of problems with teeth and jaws. They can diagnose problems with crowded or overlapping tooth, misaligned lips and jaws, and other irregularities requiring treatment. Some of these issues are caused by tooth decay or accidents, while others are genetic. Orthodontists can also detect problems before they become serious and take preventative action.
Your orthodontist develops and prioritizes a treatment list after a thorough exam. They will use a combination of in-person examination, 2D or 3D X-rays, photos and molds to create a personalized treatment plan that will guide you along your journey to a healthy, beautiful smile.
During your records appointment, your orthodontist will take pictures of your face from the front and sides, as well as close-ups of your smile to identify asymmetries and imbalances. They will also take dental impressions, which involve applying a gel-like substance to your teeth and leaving it to set. These plaster or digital replicas allow the orthodontist to evaluate the positioning of your current teeth and make predictions for their position after treatment.
Your orthodontist explains their diagnosis and recommends the best treatment option. This will depend on your unique needs, including the length of time you will need to complete your treatment. They will also address your concerns about your treatment.
Your orthodontist will then install braces after your treatment plan is complete. Traditional metal braces are square brackets with wires attached. These wires apply pressure on the teeth in order to straighten them. There are other options, such as clear braces (like Invisalign), which are less noticeable, and palatal expanders, which help widen the upper jaw. Retainers may be required to maintain a healthy, new smile after braces have been removed.
Orthodontists provide many other health benefits in addition to helping you achieve an attractive, healthy smile. Misaligned jaws and teeth can cause gum disease and tooth decay. An orthodontist, by straightening teeth and changing the way you eat, can reduce your chances of developing these diseases.
You’ll be treated
Orthodontics is a field that focuses on straightening teeth and correcting bite issues. A bad bit can cause pain while chewing, and even tooth loss. Orthodontic treatment can also help improve the appearance of your smile.
Before starting treatment, your orthodontist may take photos and intraoral scans to determine the condition of your teeth and jaw. This information will be used to create a detailed treatment plan. The orthodontist will also take a mold of your teeth by pressing a tray filled with gooey material into your top and bottom teeth. This will give the orthodontist a perfect impression of your teeth’s shape and size.
There are many different types of orthodontic appliances, and your orthodontist will be able to recommend the best course of action for your specific situation. You may be given a removable appliance, like a clear aligner, or a fixed brace that is affixed to your teeth. Fixed braces are typically made of metal, ceramic, or plastic squares that are stuck to your teeth, with a wire that runs through the brackets. A special type of fixed appliance, called a palate expander, is used to widen the upper jaw. This is done mainly on children as their facial bone development is still in progress and they are more flexible.
After your treatment, you will need to wear a retaining device to keep your teeth straight. You’ll also need to see your orthodontist on a regular basis so that they can check that your retainer is fitting properly and that the teeth haven’t shifted back into their old positions.
Orthodontists can treat malocclusions – irregularities in the alignment between the teeth and jaws. Common malocclusions include underbites, overbites, crossbites, and open bites. These problems can result in crooked teeth or protruding ones, which can be difficult to clean and cause damage when chewing. They can also cause asymmetry to your face by affecting the way your jaws meet. Orthodontic treatment will correct these problems, giving you a beautiful smile.
You will receive follow-up care
Orthodontic treatment is a lengthy process that takes between one to three years. During this time, you will visit the orthodontist regularly. They will check the progress of your orthodontic treatment and reassess it. They will also use their experience in order to predict the time it will take for you to achieve your desired result.
Both dentists as well as orthodontists have been trained to treat problems relating to your teeth, gums and tongue. Orthodontists are more trained in analyzing and correcting misalignments. Because of this, it’s a good idea to consult with your orthodontist before visiting a general dentist for any sort of dental issues.
Orthodontics can be beneficial to you or your children at any age. However, it is best to seek treatment as early as possible. Many orthodontists recommend that children receive their first orthodontic visit by the age of 7. This will allow them to identify any problems early and treat them before they become worse.
