What Exactly Do Orthodontists Do?

If you’re proactive about your dental health or have had a complicated dental issue before, you’ve probably considered visiting an orthodontist. Orthodontists are trained as dentists, but they further their knowledge and focus on a particular group of dental problems. Most commonly these dental problems being tooth and jaw alignment issues. Here are some of the duties that you can expect from orthodontists.

Supervision of Facial Growth

Orthodontists are not only skilled in working with issues that arise with the teeth. Unfortunately, most people only think of them when something goes wrong. According to Healthline, an estimated 50%-75% of individuals could benefit from orthodontic treatment. It’s very important to take your child to the orthodontist before they reach the age of seven. That way, the orthodontist can monitor and examine their dental health to ensure they are growing with properly set jaws and teeth. This enables them to catch any problems early and adjust to them before they turn into more complicated issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Misaligned Teeth and Jaws

This is what orthodontists are mainly known for; they can diagnose and treat problems with misaligned teeth and jaws. This may include overcrowded teeth, teeth with gaps, crooked teeth, and a whole range of other problems. Once a diagnosis has been made, an orthodontist can propose the relevant treatment, which usually involves braces and retainers. Some problems are treated using teeth straightening surgery as well. Apart from braces and surgery, orthodontists fit their patients with headgear to help move teeth into alignment.

Orthodontic Surgery

This is another branch of orthodontic treatment reserved for patients with severe underbite or overbite. Corrective surgery is carried out to lengthen or shorten the jaw. This involves using wires, surgical screws, and plates for jawline support. Jaw surgery is only recommended in adults and if less-invasive treatments have failed. Correcting dental malocclusions can make it easier for patients to bite, chew and speak. It also improves facial symmetry and helps to ease pain from temporomandibular joint disorders.

These are some of the things that orthodontists do on a regular basis. There are several benefits of having straight teeth. For example, straight teeth are easier to clean, preventing problems like tooth decay and cavities. Problems with misaligned teeth are often first noticed by dentists during routine exams. They can then suggest that you go and see an orthodontist. Get in touch with Dr. Bret Orthodontics today if you have problems with the alignment of teeth and jaws. We would love to hear from you.