What is orthodontics and what does an orthodontist do?

Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. An orthodontist is a dental professional who has undergone additional training and education to become an expert in this field.

So, what exactly does an orthodontist do?

An orthodontist's main goal is to help patients achieve a healthy and beautiful smile by correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. They use various techniques and appliances to move teeth into their proper positions and create a balanced bite. This not only improves the appearance of the smile but also enhances the overall function of the teeth and jaw.

Here are some of the common issues that orthodontists can address:

1. Crooked teeth: Orthodontists can straighten crooked teeth, closing gaps and aligning them properly.

2. Overbite: An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap excessively with the lower front teeth. Orthodontists can correct this by moving the upper teeth back or the lower teeth forward.

3. Underbite: An underbite is the opposite of an overbite, where the lower teeth protrude in front of the upper teeth. Orthodontists can correct this by moving the lower teeth back or the upper teeth forward.

4. Crossbite: A crossbite occurs when the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when biting down. Orthodontists can correct this by aligning the upper and lower teeth properly.

5. Open bite: An open bite is when the upper and lower teeth do not meet when biting down. Orthodontists can correct this by moving the teeth into proper alignment.

6. Crowding: Crowding happens when there is not enough space in the jaw for all the teeth to fit properly. Orthodontists can create space by expanding the arch or extracting teeth if necessary.

Now, let's talk about how orthodontists achieve these corrections:

Orthodontists use a variety of tools and techniques to move teeth and align jaws. The most common method is through the use of braces, which consist of brackets, wires, and bands. These components work together to apply gentle pressure to the teeth, gradually moving them into their desired positions.

In addition to traditional braces, orthodontists may also use other appliances such as aligners, retainers, headgear, or palatal expanders, depending on the specific needs of the patient. These appliances help to guide the teeth and jaws into proper alignment.

It's important to note that orthodontic treatment is not just about aesthetics. While a straighter smile can boost confidence and self-esteem, orthodontic treatment also plays a crucial role in improving oral health. Straight teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems.

Conclusion:

In summary, orthodontics is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on correcting dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists are experts in this field and use various techniques and appliances to move teeth and align jaws. By addressing issues such as crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, and crowding, orthodontists help patients achieve a healthy and beautiful smile while improving their overall oral health. If you have any concerns about your teeth or jaw alignment, it's best to consult with an orthodontist who can provide personalized treatment options tailored to your needs.

Sylvia Green

Preventative care, patient education, hiking, cooking

Dr. Sylvia Green is an experienced dentist with a decade of professional practice under her belt. Her commitment lies in guiding her patients toward excellent oral health, with a particular emphasis on the critical role of preventative measures. Outside of her medical pursuits, Dr. Green is an avid hiker and culinary enthusiast, always keen on discovering and experimenting with new recipes.