Orthodontics is a specialized area of dentistry focused on diagnosing and treating dental and facial irregularities, and it addresses the alignment of teeth and jaws. To accomplish this, orthodontists use various appliances, including braces and aligners, to move teeth into their proper positions. Correctly aligned teeth contribute to overall oral health. Here are some questions you may have about orthodontics:
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist with advanced training in tooth movement and jaw alignment. After dental school, they typically complete an additional multi-year residency program focused solely on orthodontics. They assess your bite and create a custom treatment plan, and they manage your care throughout the process. Their expertise allows them to address a wide range of alignment issues.
Orthodontists manage the growth and development of the facial structure, and this can impact your overall health. While they typically treat children and teenagers, they also provide care for many adults seeking to improve their smiles. Guiding jaw growth and correcting a bad bite are parts of their practice.
Do My Teeth Require Braces?
Only a dental professional can determine if you need orthodontic treatment. Signs that suggest a need for braces include crowded or crooked teeth. While an overbite or underbite may point to a need for correction, a consultation provides a definite answer.
If your teeth are misaligned, braces are a standard solution. Braces consist of brackets attached to the teeth and wires that guide them into place. They work by applying steady pressure over time, and this pressure slowly moves teeth into the desired position. Many types of braces are available, including metal and ceramic options.
The specialist uses diagnostic tools, such as X-rays, to understand your specific needs. These tools help them see the position of each tooth and the jaw relationship. An orthodontist will use this information to develop a precise treatment strategy because your treatment plan is unique to your mouth.
Are Aligners an Option?
Clear aligners are an alternative to traditional braces for some patients. These are custom-made, removable trays that fit snugly over your teeth, and you wear each set of aligners for a specified period before moving to the next set in the series. While they are less visible, aligners require consistent use to be effective. Your orthodontist will determine if this treatment is suitable for your specific alignment needs.
Aligners offer a different approach to moving teeth, and the treatment involves a series of trays designed to make small adjustments. In some cases, patients prefer them for their appearance and ease of removal. You can take them out for:
- Eating
- Drinking
- Brushing
How Will My Teeth Improve?
Orthodontic treatment aims to move teeth into a more functional alignment, and this process makes brushing and flossing easier, which supports better oral hygiene. When teeth are properly aligned, they function as intended for biting and chewing. The treatment changes the position of your teeth within your jaw.
Find Orthodontics Near You
After treatment, your teeth will be in their new, corrected positions. Maintaining these results requires wearing a retainer as instructed by your orthodontist, and your smile’s alignment is the direct result of the treatment process. If you have questions about what orthodontics can do for you, seeking professional advice is the next step. Contact a local orthodontist’s office to schedule a consultation and learn about your options.
