Why Orthodontic Treatment Is About Health, Not Just Appearance

Orthodontists are the only dentists trained to diagnose and treat dental problems that include crowded or spaced teeth and misaligned jaws. They use specialized tools and orthodontic appliances to correct these problems. At the Solventum oral care, they also provide additional oral health services, such as teeth cleanings. These cleanings remove tartar, the hardened layer of plaque that builds up on teeth. Orthodontists can also recommend devices such as a palate expander, which helps widen the upper jaw and improve overall bite alignment.

Orthodontists are dentists who have pursued additional specialized training to diagnose and treat teeth and jaw irregularities, or malocclusions. They can correct an array of debilitating conditions, including crooked teeth and a bad bite that can cause speech defects and difficulty chewing. They also use special devices such as palate expanders to create more space for adult teeth.

Unlike general dentists, orthodontists are required to complete rigorous training after graduating from college, dental school, and orthodontic school. They spend two to three years in an orthodontic residency program, where they receive intensive instruction in healthy tooth movement and the guidance of jaw and facial development.

Orthodontists are able to identify and intercept problems before they become severe, and they can correct them by using braces, removable appliances, and other treatment options. They work with patients of all ages, from children to adults. In addition to treating malocclusions, orthodontists can also prevent them from developing in the future.

They diagnose and treat malocclusions

Misaligned teeth and jaws, known as malocclusion, are more than cosmetic issues. They can affect your child’s oral health, speech, and chewing. Over time, malocclusion can lead to jaw injuries and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain. Fortunately, orthodontists are equipped to treat malocclusions and help improve your child’s smile.

A good orthodontist will start by evaluating your child’s bite with a comprehensive diagnostic process, including digital X-rays and 3D imaging. This will help them determine the type of malocclusion and the best treatment plan to correct it.

Orthodontists also use mouth appliances like braces and headgear to encourage teeth and jaws into alignment. They may also prescribe a palate expander to help your child develop enough space in their upper jaw to accommodate adult teeth. They can also help your child quit unhealthy habits, such as thumb sucking and pacifier use. In severe cases, they may need to perform surgical intervention. This will depend on your child’s age and the cause of their malocclusion.

They provide a variety of treatments

People often think of orthodontic treatment as a cosmetic procedure, but it also boosts oral health and overall wellbeing. When your bite and teeth are aligned properly, chewing becomes easier and food is digested better. This improves your quality of life and boosts self-esteem. It can even reduce problems such as jaw pain, snoring and sleep apnea.

Orthodontic treatments include braces, clear aligners, palate expanders and headgear. Your orthodontist will use 2D and 3D X-rays, photos and molds to create a personalized treatment plan.

In addition to addressing malocclusions, orthodontists can also identify and intercept problems that may arise later. This helps you save time, money and potential discomfort in the future. For this reason, it is recommended that kids visit an orthodontist as soon as their permanent teeth start coming in, around age seven. This way, they can be evaluated and treated before they cause any serious problems. Early treatment also makes it easier for children to get comfortable with their smiles.