How Can an Orthodontist Fix Your Mouth and Jaws for Optimal Alignment?

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Did you know the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist? Both are dedicated to maintaining your oral health, but orthodontists undergo additional training to address tooth and jaw misalignment. We engage in an extensive two- to three-year residency, culminating in over 4,800 hours of specialized orthodontic education! 

Orthodontic Training

Orthodontists not only complete the same foundational coursework as dentists, obtaining a bachelor’s degree and graduating from a four-year accredited dental school, but we also undertake an orthodontic residency program lasting two to three years. This rigorous training equips us with the necessary skills and qualifications to practice orthodontics proficiently. While your diligent dentist completes eight years of higher education, our journey extends to 10–11 years by the time we finish!

So, what does this mean for you? Whether you’re feeling exhausted if you notice crooked teeth in the mirror or your dentist has referred you to us due to a misaligned bite, our orthodontic team is at your service. Like your dentist, we prioritize your oral health and are committed to helping you achieve a perfectly aligned smile, enhancing both your appearance and confidence!

What We Can Do for You

As orthodontists, our mission is to correct the alignment of your teeth and jaws. While a more aesthetically pleasing smile is a byproduct of straighter teeth, our primary focus is on your jawbone health, teeth alignment, and rectifying oral and facial abnormalities. Our daily responsibilities include procedures and treatments to address occlusion issues, misalignment, and dental irregularities. For instance, dealing with crowded teeth, overbites, underbites, or crooked teeth are all alignment concerns. During your visit to our orthodontic practice, we might perform the following:

  • Examine your smile for abnormalities in the mouth, jaw, and face.
  • Utilize X-rays and molds to evaluate tooth alignment.
  • Apply orthodontic braces or other devices (aligners, retainers, etc.).
  • Straighten teeth through orthodontic surgery if necessary.
  • Monitor your child’s tooth development and alignment.

Addressing crooked or misaligned teeth is not merely for aesthetic improvement; it’s essential for your overall well-being. Misalignment issues can lead to lockjaw, speech impediments, headaches, and more. Resolving these problems can significantly enhance your quality of life. So, how do you decide whether to see a dentist or an orthodontist for your oral health issues? Here are some indicators to help decide:

When Should You See an Orthodontist?

  • Your teeth are crowding due to a lack of jaw space or large teeth.
  • You are struggling with misaligned, overgrown, or crooked teeth.
  • You have an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite.
  • Your teeth are required for teeth straightening.
  • You can feel discomfort or pain in the mouth or jaw (TMJ), requiring a retainer, etc.
  • You are having difficulty chewing or speaking.
  • Your palate needs expansion.

Call Today!

In any case, don’t delay important orthodontic care. Don’t you like braces? No problem! Clear aligners can often remedy the issue discreetly. Your oral health is as vital as your overall health, and regular visits to your dentist and our orthodontic practice can help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come! You deserve top-tier orthodontic care. Please reach out to us to learn more or to address any concerns!