An orthodontist is a dentist who specialises in the alignment of teeth.
If you are considering orthodontic treatment, you might be wondering what exactly your orthodontist can do to help. An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed additional training in order to specialise in the alignment of teeth and related issues. Read on to find out what kinds of treatments your orthodontist can provide…
What do orthodontists do?
While all dentists are qualified to treat issues relating to the mouth, jaw, teeth, gums and nerves, orthodontists specialise in the alignment of teeth. An orthodontist is able to identify and treat a broad range of issues relating to the alignment of the teeth and jaw, including overbites, occlusions, overcrowding and underbites.
If your orthodontist identifies an issue that needs to be resolved, they may recommend braces. Braces are one of the most common orthodontic treatments and usually achieve very effective results. In some cases, however, surgery may be necessary, in which case your orthodontist will explain the relevant procedure to you and guide you through the process.
How do braces work?
Braces are designed to place continuous pressure on the teeth and gradually shift them into new and improved positions. There are a number of types of braces available — at Straight Orthodontics, we offer traditional metal braces and ceramic braces. Traditional metal braces use brackets, which are secured onto the teeth, while arch wires and elastic bands help to move the teeth into new positions. Ceramic braces work in the same way, but are made with clear ceramic brackets. This makes them more discreet than metal braces. Both metal and ceramic braces can be used to resolve a number of issues, including malocclusions, gaps, crooked teeth and problems relating to the alignment of the jaw.
Although braces are a popular and effective treatment, it is also possible to have your teeth straightened with the use of clear aligners. Clear aligners are virtually invisible and while they are not suited to all orthodontic issues, they are often an effective option for those who prefer something more discreet than traditional braces.
Besides braces and aligners, orthodontists also provide retainers, which play an important part in maintaining straight teeth following orthodontic treatment. Retainers work by keeping the teeth in their new positions after one’s braces have been removed. Permanent retainers involve a wire being glued to the inner side of the lower teeth and work by preventing shifting. Removable retainers, on the other hand, can be taken out for eating and cleaning.
How can we help?
At Straight Orthodontics, we offer a comprehensive range of orthodontic treatments, including braces, clear aligners and surgical orthodontics. Our surgical orthodontic treatments include chin advancement, maxillary advancement and mandibular set back, maxillary impaction and surgically assisted maxillary expansion.
We also offer early orthodontic treatment, which involves early assessments for children. Early identification and treatment of orthodontic issues reduces the risk of complicated and expensive problems at a later stage, and can also help to address damaging dental habits from a young age.
To find out more about the services that we provide, please have a look here.
If you would like to find out more about our services or are ready to make an appointment, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our team is friendly and caring, and we look forward to welcoming you to our practice!