Introduction
An orthodontist is a dentist who specializes in braces and dental treatments to straighten teeth and correct other teeth irregularities. While most general dentists offer a full range of dental services, orthodontists are specialists that focus only on the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental irregularities and facial deformities (i.e. orthodontics). In the United States, orthodontists are required to undergo additional full-time clinical and didactic training after general dental studies, so seeking treatment from an orthodontist means assurance that you are receiving care from someone that has received specialist training.
When should my kid start braces?
It is recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists that all children receive their first orthodontic consultation at age 7 when they have a mix of baby and adult teeth. An early exam allows your orthodontist to offer you guidance and advice as to treatment options and their pros and cons so you can make an informed decision. Although your child may still have mixed dentition (i.e. both baby teeth and adult teeth), it may be an optimal time to start braces. Some baby teeth are wider than their succeeding permanent teeth, and getting orthodontic treatment before the shedding of baby teeth can make treatment easier by preserving the extra spaces that baby teeth occupy and may avoid the need to remove teeth in the future to create spaces for teeth alignment. In addition, when a child is under active growth, it may be possible to use orthodontic appliances such as jaw expanders to modify his/her jaw growth and movement. Since each child’s situation is different, it is best to take him/her to an orthodontist for consultation on the appropriate treatment.
Why do people get braces?
Most people get braces because they have crooked teeth – for example, they have gaps between their teeth or some of their teeth overlap with others. Others get braces because of dental problems such as bite irregularities, upper and lower jaw discrepancies, or lips imbalance.
What are the advantages of getting braces?
Dental braces can help straighten your teeth and give you a brighter smile. Whether the problems are teeth-related or others, braces can help bring teeth in better positions for function and appearance, facilitate oral hygiene, and enhance positive self-image. Everyone regardless of age may benefit from dental braces.
How does an orthodontist diagnose and treat the orthodontic problems?
When you see an orthodontist, there are 3 areas that are commonly treated:
Dental Problems. Many patients get braces to correct dental problems, such as too much space or not enough space for teeth alignment, extra or missing teeth, improper bite, severe overjet and overbite, etc.
Jaw Discrepancies. A child’s upper and lower jaws may not be in proper alignment or there may be size discrepancies. These problems can be corrected with certain orthodontic appliances, such as jaw expanders.
Facial Appearances. Because teeth are the framework to the surrounding soft tissues, changing one’s teeth positions may correct his/her lip positions and facial profile.
Deep Bite
Open Bite
Crossbite
Severe Crowding
