What Is An Orthodontist?
Grants Pass, OR
 An orthodontist is a dentist that specializes in preventing and correcting both teeth and jaw misalignment. This can include misaligned bites, crossbites, overbites, and underbites, as well as crowded or gapped teeth. Orthodontists typically attend dental school for four years, and then an additional two years to study and learn about orthodontics.
Orthodontic treatment is the type of treatment that involves the diagnosis, prevention, and correction of wrongly positioned and wrongly aligned teeth and jaw. It also concentrates on amending facial growth, which is known as dentofacial orthopedics. Many patients are surprised to learn that unusual alignment and arrangement of the teeth is common. According to the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO), nearly 50% of the population has malocclusions that require orthodontic treatment.
Orthodontics involves the use of devices, such as braces and other similar dental appliances such as aligners, to carefully adjust the position of the teeth. If the malocclusion is very severe, jaw surgery would be advised. Treatment is usually necessary before a patient becomes an adult, as it is a lot easier to move bones around in children. At [[[CLINITEX:PracticeName]]], we offer orthodontic treatment for patients who are candidates.
[[H2:Importance of Orthodontic Treatment]]]
Many patients mistakenly believe that orthodontic treatment only affects their mouths. However, undergoing orthodontic treatment is really important not only for your dental health but also for your overall general health, too. The AAO recommends that children have their teeth screened for any orthodontic issues before their seventh birthday. By the time they reach this age, it will become more evident if they have any issues with the alignment of their jaw or if they have the presence of malocclusion.
Some malocclusions can be quite common. These may include the overcrowding of the teeth on either dental arch. When a patient’s teeth are overcrowded, some teeth will grow into their mouths without complication. Others will compress, which can cause lasting damage to the teeth. Other types of malocclusions include open bite - when the teeth do not fit together securely when the patient closes their mouth, crossbite - when the upper and lower arch to not line up with each other correctly, and overbite and underbite - when either the lower or the upper dental arch overlaps the other.
Duration Of Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatments normally range between one to three years. Since individuals are different, the duration will vary from person to person. It is also reliant on several variables, including the severity of the problem and the growth of a patient’s mouth and face. It is important to remember that everyone responds to their treatment differently, which means that your outcome may vary. However, staying on top of your dental checkups at our office, as well as taking proper care of your appliances, can help ensure the best possible outcome for you.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment fixes problems with the alignment of the upper and lower jaws and with the spacing of teeth. Your investment in orthodontic treatment will result in a lifetime of improved oral health and, of course, a great smile. Self-esteem and confidence that come from looking good are two important reasons to consider orthodontic treatment.
Undergoing orthodontic treatment comes with a number of notable benefits. Not only can you improve your bite, but you can also dramatically improve the appearance of your smile, as well. This can, in turn, lead to increased self-confidence and happiness. If you are considering orthodontics, please reach out to us at [[[CLINITEX:PracticeName]]] at (541) 441-8288 for more information and to set up an appointment with us. |
