Orthodontics is the specialty of dentistry and discipline of orthodontics that deals with diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial abnormalities such as crooked teeth, irregular growth and development, crossbite, overbite, and underbite. Orthodontic specialists in boston use corrective appliances such as braces, retainers, headgear, and surgery to address these issues.
Board Certification
Orthodontists fix misaligned jaws and teeth, which affects how we chew, speak, bite, and maintain oral hygiene. They also deal with issues such as facial symmetry, temporomandibular pain, and our smiles. When your dentist sees problems like crooked, disproportionate teeth, or an open mouth, they will recommend you to an orthodontist.
All orthodontists have completed a four-year degree program. Some choose to pursue board certification in order to further their education. Board certified professionals have demonstrated their skills, knowledge and judgment through a rigorous evaluation.
During the first two years of a dental degree program, future orthodontists learn basic concepts such as anatomy and physiology. Then they decide if orthodontics is what they want to pursue in their final two years.
Orthodontic specialist are trained to treat conditions like crowded or spaced out teeth, overcrowding and improper tooth alignment. They also treat skeletal imbalances as well as relapses after previous treatments. They are also trained to assess the complications that may arise from these issues, such as gum or jaw disease. They have the knowledge and expertise to use braces, clear aligner trays and other appliances to address these issues.
Experience
While dentists are trained to diagnose and treat common oral health issues such as tooth pain, tooth decay, and gum disease, there are some dental problems that require the attention of a specialist. This includes crooked or crowded teeth and jaw misalignment. A general dentist may be able to address these issues, but an orthodontist is better equipped to treat you to achieve a beautiful and healthy smile.
The path to becoming a certified orthodontic specialist involves an extensive university education followed by a three-year residency program. In addition to learning the skills of managing tooth movement (orthodontics) and guiding facial development (dentofacial orthopedics), orthodontic specialists are trained to treat a wide variety of malocclusions in children, teens and adults.
Once the underlying dental structure has been corrected, the orthodontist may also install devices such as dental braces to help guide the teeth into their proper position. These appliances can be made using a combination between brackets, an arwire, and transparent (“invisible”) material that can be tailored to your needs. Orthodontists may recommend facemasks and headgear in some cases to encourage the alignment of teeth and jaws. The final step in the orthodontic process is a retainer, which ensures that the teeth do not revert back to their original positions.
Reputation
Orthodontics, a branch of dentistry, focuses on correcting jaw and teeth misalignments. It is important to select a specialist who has the necessary qualifications and experience to deliver the best results. They will also be able to address any questions or concerns that you may have during your treatment.
It is important to check their reputation in addition to making sure that they are board certified. A good orthodontist will have a positive reputation that they will work hard to maintain and cultivate. This will make it easier for you to find an orthodontist who is right for your needs.
You can ask friends and family about their experience with an orthodontist if you’re not sure. It is best to do your own research on an orthodontist before making a choice. The choice of orthodontist has a big impact on your smile.
Treatment Options
Orthodontists offer a range of treatment options based on your needs. These include braces, retainers, headgear, and surgery. They also keep up with the latest dental technology. This enables them to use state-of-the-art equipment to provide you with the best care possible.
Misaligned jaws or teeth can cause a number of problems including tooth decay, tmj, and painful chewing. A crooked grin can also affect your self-esteem and appearance. Orthodontic treatments can correct malocclusions, as well as other oral health problems, to improve facial symmetry, chewing, and speaking.
Most orthodontists suggest that children visit an orthodontic specialist before the age of 7. It is at this time that the permanent first 6 year molars and incisors start to emerge. By this time, many orthodontic issues can be identified and treated. These include crossbites and functional shifts.
Orthodontists sometimes recommend a palate extender to help widen your upper jaw. These devices can be a great option for teens, as they prevent the need for surgery or other procedures. Retainers can also be used in orthodontics to stop teeth from drifting towards their original positions. Orthodontists can create a custom retainer to ensure that your teeth remain in their new, straighter position after your orthodontic treatment. The most effective retainers are those that are worn consistently and properly.