When you think about orthodontic treatment, you typically think of braces or other gadgets. In this article, we discuss What does an Orthodontist do? You might not be aware that your orthodontist has a key role in your teeth straightening process. The orthodontist's role is essential if you are receiving orthodontic treatment as an adult or your child needs braces to correct their bite. The expert will review your case and discuss different treatment options to achieve the perfect alignment of your teeth.
Additionally, an orthodontist will also monitor and review your progress throughout the treatment period until you reach the final result. There is a huge difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. Perhaps, the term is derived from dentistry. Keep reading to discover more about "what does an orthodontist do?" And when to visit for your treatment process.
What Is An Orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist with expertise in managing misaligned teeth correction and treatment. The orthodontist uses braces or other orthodontic appliances to realign the teeth into their natural position. Orthodontic treatment is typically performed on children and adults who have misaligned teeth. The orthodontic treatment may correct or prevent issues such as difficulty chewing, and eating, gum disease, poor self-esteem, difficulty breathing, and other issues caused by misaligned teeth.
When considering orthodontic treatment, selecting an orthodontist with experience with your particular needs is important. A Board-certified orthodontist will have completed a three-year post-doctoral residency program specializing in orthodontic treatment. Bachelor's in dentistry, along with a training period, is the qualification for dentistry.
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How do I know when I need to see an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is necessary for several reasons. First, only an orthodontist can diagnose whether orthodontic treatment is necessary. In addition, only an orthodontist is trained to determine the best treatment option for you. Finally, only an orthodontist is trained to place your customized orthodontic appliance. Orthodontic appliances (such as braces) correct the alignment of your teeth. A misaligned bite may cause a wide range of issues, such as gum disease, difficulty eating, and difficulty speaking. Correcting an alignment problem with orthodontic treatment can alleviate these issues.
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What does an orthodontist do?
An orthodontist doctor specializes in treating abnormalities such as crooked teeth and gaps between the teeth. An orthodontist is specialized in orthodontics. Orthodontics is a medical branch of dentistry that prevents, treats, and corrects dental abnormalities. Generally, an orthodontist is a medical practitioner specializing in physical procedures carried out to achieve oral hygiene. Orthodontists do many practices. they treat teeth abnormality is included -
- Broken teeth
- Bite problems like overbite or underbite
- neckline gapping in teeth
- Teeth misalignment
- Teeth implants
What is the best orthodontic treatment option?
Braces are the most often used orthodontic item for tooth realignment. While there are different orthodontic appliances, each is designed to gently apply pressure to your teeth, helping them move to their proper place.
- Braces are made up of metal wires with colored elastic bands attached. The wires are connected to the bands and are used to gently apply pressure to your teeth.
- Each band has a specific purpose, and the orthodontist will use different colored bands to track your progress.
- Many people now have clear braces known as Invisalign. Invisalign Is not visible to others and is a popular alternative to traditional metal braces.
What is the difference between orthodontists and dentists?
Dentistry is a broad term that consists of orthodontists and dentists both. The dentist is the general practitioner concerned about oral hygiene, and the orthodontist is the specialist. A dentist is a doctor who specializes in the treatment of gums, teeth, nerves, and your job. An orthodontist is also a dentist who corrects the alignment, braces, and occlusions. Many signs and symptoms can help you specify whether you should visit a dentist or a dentist.
The dentist specialized in -
- Teeth whitening
- root canal
- tooth decay
- gum disease
- toothache
An orthodontist specialized in -
- Misaligned teeth
- Overbite
- under white
- crowded teeth
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What to expect during the visit with an orthodontist?
A typical orthodontist visit may include an examination of the teeth and gums, an x-ray if needed for analysis, and a treatment plan. Depending on the teeth' condition and alignment, the orthodontist may prescribe braces, crowns, and Invisalign. They typically use various techniques to achieve optimal alignment, including braces and surgery. They may also recommend other dental treatments, including -
- Dental x-ray
- A panoramic x-ray of the face and head
- Photo of your face and smile and
- Oral examination
- Impression to create a mold of your teeth
This test will inform your orthodontist on how to proceed with your treatment and what orthodontic interventions are best for you.
During Your Orthodontic Treatment
During treatment, your orthodontist will monitor your progress and make adjustments as necessary.
- This can include tightening loose bands or changing the position of your wires.
- Your braces will be removed and replaced several times throughout your treatment.
- While wearing your braces, you will likely have a few issues. These include discomfort, tooth sensitivity, and food stuck in your braces.
- You can manage these issues with the assistance of your orthodontist. Your orthodontist will also likely offer you a retainer after you remove your braces.
- A retainer is a device worn in your mouth to maintain your new alignment and prevent your teeth from moving back.
When to visit an orthodontist?
Although there are no specific age guidelines for visiting an orthodontist, it is important to understand your risk for dental misalignment and to visit an orthodontist if needed. You should visit an orthodontist if you experience significant tooth decay, gum disease, or TMJ disorder. You can also consult or visit an orthodontist if you are experiencing discomfort in your jaw or your teeth are misaligned. If you are worried your child is not brushing or flossing their teeth properly, you should visit an orthodontist. Children should visit an orthodontist doctor no later than age 13.
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Conclusion
Orthodontic treatment is often required when teeth are misaligned. An orthodontist will place braces or another orthodontic appliance on the patient to correct the alignment. The patient will wear the appliance for a specified time until the teeth are correctly aligned. If you have misaligned teeth, your orthodontist can help you correct the issue through orthodontic treatment. If you do not have misaligned teeth but are worried you may need orthodontic treatment in the future, you can visit an orthodontist for a consultation at any time. I hope this article lets you understand what an orthodontist does and when you should contact an orthodontic specialist.
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