What an Orthodontist Does - And How They Can Help You

If you have struggled with bad teeth your whole life, you may be wondering if you should see an orthodontist or not. You’re in luck! With this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about orthodontists—from what they do to what their role in your treatment will be to how much money it might cost you—so that you can make the most informed decision possible.

What is an Orthodontist

An orthodontist is a dental professional who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of problems with the teeth and jaw. These professionals are trained to diagnose problems with how your teeth fit together, identify areas that need extra attention, and teach you how to care for your teeth.

Types of Braces

There are a few different types of braces out there, that orthodontists use to correct different types of malocclusions. The most common type is the traditional metal brackets and wires that you may have seen before. Invisalign is another option, where aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth and move them gradually into the right position. Another option is clear braces, which are made up of a series of clear plastic or ceramic brackets that stick onto your front teeth.

Orthodontists vs. dentists

One of the most common questions patients have is whether they should see a dentist or orthodontist. The answer, of course, is that it depends on what you are looking for!
Orthodontists specialize in correcting crooked teeth and jaws, while dentists focus on general oral health and treatment. If you have a serious dental problem such as gingivitis or tooth decay and need to see a dentist, then you should go straight to the dentist.

Orthodontists vs. periodontists

If you're not sure whether you need to see an orthodontist or a periodontist, it's important that you visit both. An orthodontist is a dentist who specializes in correcting jaw and tooth alignment problems while a periodontist is a dentist who specializes in gum disease and dental implants. They are two different fields of dentistry but they can work together to offer the best treatment for your oral health care needs.

What is gum disease

Gum disease is when the gums are inflamed, swollen, and infected. The gum line can recede to expose the roots of teeth which can lead to tooth loss. Gum disease is a common problem that many people have but don't know it because they do not have any symptoms or they don't realize they have it.
If you are having trouble with your teeth it is important to see a dentist who will be able to diagnose your oral health status and refer you to a specialist if needed. An orthodontist specializes in dental treatment like braces and other appliances that straighten teeth and fix problems like overcrowding, gaps between teeth, crooked teeth, etc.

Options to get your teeth straightened

Invisalign is a popular option for patients with teeth that aren't straight. Invisalign are clear, removable aligners that straighten teeth gradually, over time. With in-office visits and checkups, orthodontists can help you achieve the perfect smile you've always wanted.

If you're looking to get your teeth straightened or just get an appointment to find out if they can be, then contact a local orthodontist near you today!