What is an Orthodontist?
Orthodontists are experts in correcting misalignments of the teeth and jaw.
In much the same way as doctors choose to specialise in areas such as cardiology and neurology, dentists can also choose to specialise. Orthodontics is a dental speciality that aims to prevent, diagnose and treat facial and dental irregularities, such as malocclusions (bad bites).
Orthodontists are fully qualified dentists who embark on a further two to three years of university-based study and gain extensive clinical experience in an orthodontic residency program.
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Common issues orthodontists treat
Anteroposterior deviations
Common examples of anteroposterior deviations include underbite (the lower teeth are positioned further forward than upper teeth) and overbite (the upper teeth are positioned further forward than the lower teeth). Both of these deviations can cause difficulty articulating and chewing.
Overcrowding
Overcrowding is one of the most common problems orthodontists treat. On occasion, lack of jawbone space means adult teeth cannot erupt in alignment with existing teeth. The orthodontist is able to realign the teeth using a number of unobtrusive devices and treatments.
Aesthetic issues
In some cases, the shape of the whole face is negatively impacted by malocclusions or a bad bite. The orthodontist can restructure and realign the jaw, lips and teeth to create a beautiful, even smile.
Orthodontic Treatments
Initially, the orthodontist conducts a thorough examination of the jaw and teeth. Panoramic x-rays and study models (bite impressions) will be taken prior to the orthodontist making treatment recommendations. The orthodontist will recommend the best treatment plan for the patient’s particular condition.
Here is a brief overview of some of the treatments orthodontists may use:
Dental braces
The combination of brackets (which are affixed to each individual tooth), and an archwire (which connects each bracket) are placed to gently train the teeth into proper alignment. Dental braces can be made of metal, ceramic or clear (“invisible”) materials.
When the desired results are achieved, the fixed dental braces are completely removed.
Headgear and facemasks
These devices are generally used to correct a developmental problem, such as an overbite or an underbite. In addition to the dental braces, the orthodontist will design the headgear and/or facemask which fit around the head and attach to the braces. This structure will further encourage the teeth and jawbone into alignment.
Retainers
After the orthodontist has realigned the teeth using dental braces, removable devices or a headgear, a retainer may then be provided to ensure that the teeth do not begin to move back toward their original positions. Retainers are generally worn until the underlying bone has reformed into the correct position.