What Is an Orthodontist?
Not everyone is born with perfect teeth or the smile they desire. Some have crooked or misshapen teeth or gaps between teeth. If you have similar concerns and want to correct them, an orthodontist can help.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
An orthodontist focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing irregularities in the teeth and jaw development. They see patients of all ages and identify signs of potential issues that can affect the bite.
Tooth alignment and bite issues arise if the upper and lower teeth don’t come together properly. Orthodontic procedures straighten the teeth by moving them to their ideal position.
The most common treatment is traditional metal braces, which are customized for the wearer. Aside from these fixed appliances, patients can also look into removable devices.
Orthodontic devices are effective for correcting a wide range of tooth alignment issues. The right solution varies from person to person.
Minor issues can be corrected with the help of removable plastic aligners called “Invisalign,” while complex issues can be fixed with traditional braces or a combination of dental procedures.
What’s the Difference Between an Orthodontist and a General Dentist?
Both orthodontists and general dentists provide oral healthcare services to patients.
In some instances, general dentists may be able to oversee tooth alignment procedures. However, the difference is that orthodontists specialize in this field.
Some cases may need the knowledge and skills of a specialist in teeth and jaw misalignments. That’s where orthodontists come in. Orthodontists require additional orthodontic residency programs after graduating from dental school.
Your dentist may also recommend going to an orthodontist if the procedures you need are beyond their training and expertise.
When Should I See an Orthodontist?
The goal of an orthodontist is to correct and improve a person’s bite, or how their upper and lower teeth come together. Misalignment is the most common reason people see an orthodontist.
Some bite problems are genetic or occur at birth, while others stem from poor oral hygiene or harmful habits. Addressing orthodontic problems can take over 18 months since teeth require time to shift to their ideal position.
The methods for achieving this vary, and the most common one, traditional metal braces, is often seen among teenagers. But you or anyone else may seek treatment from an orthodontist if:
- You have crowded teeth
- You have crooked or protruding teeth
- You’re having speech and chewing difficulties due to misaligned teeth
- You’re struggling with dental care because of your irregular bite
- You have gaps between your teeth that you want to close
- The size of your teeth is not proportional to your face
What Are the Benefits of Getting Orthodontic Care?
A straight set of teeth isn’t only attractive, it’s also healthier. After correcting bite issues, you’re bound to enjoy the following benefits:
- Increased confidence with your enhanced smile
- Teeth that are easier to clean
- Healthier teeth because the risks of developing decay and other dental problems are reduced
- Improved speech and chewing abilities, as your teeth are now in their proper position
- Minimized pain and discomfort, as work is now equally distributed among your teeth
- Slowing down of overtime wear and tear on teeth
The only disadvantage of orthodontic treatments is that they can take years to complete. Cooperation and commitment are also crucial to see your desired results.
You must stay on top of your follow-up visits so your orthodontist can monitor your progress and make adjustments where needed.
Learn More About the Benefits of Orthodontic Services in Kitchener, ON
An orthodontist, similar to a general dentist, is your partner in improving your oral health and quality of life.
Let us help you book your initial visit and jumpstart your way to a healthier, more confident smile.