Orthodontists – A Specialty Within Dentistry

Orthodontics addresses issues such as crowded or spaced teeth and abnormal bites. At a Board-Certified Orthodontist in Flower Mound, TX, it is recommended that children visit an orthodontist by the age of 7, as early detection can help prevent the need for more invasive treatment later on. Dentists and orthodontists both play important roles in keeping your smile healthy; however, they do so in different ways, each focusing on specific aspects of oral care.

Orthodontists specialize in preventing, diagnosing and treating misaligned teeth and jaws. They work with people of all ages, from children to adults. People with keen attention to detail and high stamina are well suited for this career, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Orthodontics can correct problems like an overbite, underbite, large spaces between teeth, and crooked or rotated teeth. Their primary goal is to help you achieve a healthy bite and a healthy smile.

Aside from orthodontic training, orthodontists must also complete a two to three-year program in dentofacial orthopedics. This course helps them understand how the facial bones and tissues work together, and teaches them how to monitor and guide jaw growth in its early stages. Orthodontists are also certified by the American Board of Orthodontics. This certification is optional, but it can boost your professional reputation. It is also a sign that you have completed the necessary training to perform advanced orthodontic procedures.

They treat misaligned teeth and jaws

Misaligned teeth and jaws, also called malocclusions, are not just cosmetic issues; they can affect a person’s oral health. An orthodontist’s role is to correct malocclusions, improving both function and promoting overall wellness.

Treatment of crooked teeth and jaws begins with an examination and diagnostic tools, including panoramic X-rays and study models. The orthodontist will then recommend the most appropriate treatment based on the patient’s needs and goals.

Fixed braces, which consist of ring-like metal bands, square metal brackets and a thin metal wire (the archwire), are the most common treatment for crooked teeth. The orthodontist will periodically adjust the archwire to apply pressure and shift teeth into their proper position.

In addition to braces, orthodontists can use clear aligners to straighten the teeth without applying pressure. They may also prescribe a palate expander, which helps widen the upper jaw in children. The orthodontist will schedule regular appointments throughout the treatment process to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments.

They improve oral health

Orthodontic treatment also helps with improving the clarity of speech by correcting lisping and other speech impediments caused by misaligned teeth. Teeth are vital in the formation of articulated speech by serving as barriers that shape airflow and sound production. Orthodontic care can help correct these issues, making speech clearer and enabling individuals to participate more confidently in social and professional interactions.

Misaligned teeth can also cause difficulty in chewing and maintaining adequate oral hygiene. Orthodontic treatment addresses these problems by aligning the bite and preventing them from developing into more serious problems.

Aligned teeth make it easier to brush and floss the hard-to-reach areas of the mouth, reducing plaque buildup that can lead to gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease. Regular dental cleanings are also simpler and less invasive with straight teeth. Keeping up with routine dental appointments is a key aspect of good oral health, and orthodontists play a significant role in that.