If you have ever wondered what does an orthodontist do, you are not alone. Many people know that orthodontists are involved in straightening teeth, but the full picture of their expertise and what they can treat is often less clear.
Understanding the role of an orthodontist can help you know when to seek one out and what to expect during your care.
What Is an Orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. After completing dental school, orthodontists go on to complete an additional two to three years of specialized residency training dedicated exclusively to orthodontics. This advanced training gives them in-depth expertise in tooth movement, jaw development, and bite correction that goes beyond the scope of general dentistry.
How Is an Orthodontist Different From a Dentist?
A dentist provides general oral health care, including cleanings, fillings, extractions, and gum disease treatment. An orthodontist, on the other hand, focuses specifically on the alignment of teeth and the relationship between the upper and lower jaws. While both professionals work with the teeth and mouth, their areas of focus are distinct.
Think of it this way: you might visit a general dentist for routine care and a filling when needed, but when alignment concerns arise, whether it is crowded teeth, a bite issue, or jaw development in a child, a referral to an orthodontist is typically the right next step. Some general dentists do offer certain orthodontic treatments, such as clear aligner therapy, but a specialist in orthodontics brings a higher level of training and experience specifically in this area.
What Conditions Does an Orthodontist Treat?
Orthodontists treat a range of conditions that affect how the teeth and jaws are positioned. Some of the most common include:
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Crowded or overlapping teeth that make it difficult to clean effectively
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Spacing issues such as gaps between teeth
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Overbite, where the upper front teeth cover too much of the lower teeth
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Underbite, where the lower teeth sit in front of the upper teeth
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Crossbite, where upper and lower teeth do not align properly
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Open bite, where the front teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed
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Jaw misalignment and bite problems that affect chewing, speaking, or jaw comfort
What Treatments Does an Orthodontist Provide?
Orthodontic treatment encompasses a variety of appliances and approaches, all designed to guide teeth and jaw bones into better alignment.
Braces
Traditional braces are one of the most well-known tools in orthodontic treatment. Metal brackets are bonded to the teeth and connected by a wire that is gradually tightened over time to apply controlled pressure. Braces are highly effective for treating a wide range of cases, from mild crowding to complex bite issues. Learn more about braces treatment at Diamond Braces.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are a popular alternative to traditional braces. A series of custom-fitted, removable trays guide the teeth into position gradually. They are particularly appealing for adults and teens who prefer a more discreet option during treatment. Explore clear aligner treatment at Diamond Braces.
Retainers
Once active treatment is complete, an orthodontist will provide retainers to maintain the results. Retainers prevent the teeth from gradually shifting back toward their original positions after braces or aligners are removed. Learn about retainer options at Diamond Braces.
Other Orthodontic Appliances
Depending on the patient's needs, an orthodontist may also use expanders to widen the upper jaw, space maintainers for younger patients who have lost teeth early, or headgear and elastics to help correct jaw relationships. These appliances are typically used in younger patients during periods of active jaw growth.
When Should You See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have an initial evaluation by an orthodontist around age seven, even if no obvious problems are visible. At this age, an orthodontist can identify issues with jaw development or erupting teeth that may be easier to address while growth is still occurring.
That said, orthodontic treatment is not limited to children. Many adults seek orthodontic care for the first time later in life, and excellent results are absolutely achievable. If you notice that your teeth are crowded, that your bite feels off, or that your jaw is uncomfortable when chewing, scheduling a consultation is a good first step.
What to Expect at Your First Orthodontic Appointment
Your first visit to an orthodontist typically involves a comprehensive evaluation. This includes a visual examination of your teeth and bite, X-rays to view the roots of the teeth and the jaw structure, and sometimes digital impressions or photographs.
Based on this information, the orthodontist will discuss their findings and recommend a treatment approach suited to your specific needs. Many orthodontic offices offer free initial consultations, making it easy to explore your options without a financial commitment upfront.
Orthodontic Treatment at Diamond Braces
At Diamond Braces, our team of experienced orthodontists provides personalized care across all stages of orthodontic treatment. Whether you are coming in for a child's first evaluation, exploring your options as an adult, or looking for retainer care after previous treatment, we are here to help.
Visit us at diamondbraces.com to learn more or to schedule your first appointment.
FAQ
Can adults benefit from seeing an orthodontist?
Absolutely. Adults can achieve excellent results from orthodontic treatment at any age. Common reasons adults seek an orthodontist include crowded teeth, bite concerns, and a desire for a more aligned, confident smile.
What types of orthodontic treatment are available?
Orthodontists offer a range of treatments, including traditional braces, clear aligners, retainers, expanders, and other appliances. The best option depends on the individual patient's needs, age, and treatment goals.
