What Does an Orthodontist Do?

Thinking about seeing an orthodontist to address your dental problems? If you are concerned that your teeth are not in their proper alignment, which causes a bad bite, then you need to see an orthodontist for treatment. The sooner the better, as the longer you wait, the worse your dental problems will become. Orthodontics has come a long way in recent years, making treatment both quick and efficient.

About orthodontists

Finding out what an orthodontist can do to fix your dental alignment problems will help you know what to expect during your first consultation appointment. This first appointment is important, as a thorough evaluation of your mouth will be performed so that an exact diagnosis can be made. When you have an idea of what to expect, you will not only feel more comfortable, but you will also understand more about what is being said. This first appointment is also a great time for you to ask any questions that you have about your diagnosis and the recommended treatment.

What does an orthodontist do?

The following is a list of some of the more common things that an orthodontist can do for their patients.

Bite problems

An orthodontist is a dental professional who has undergone additional training in order to learn how to specifically address bite problems in their patients. Bite problems can include overbites, underbites, crossbites open bites, deep bites and a crowded mouth. Problematic bites are often treated by using braces or another form of orthodontic treatment. This depends solely on the orthodontist's recommendation.

Placement of pace maintainers in children’s mouths

When a child loses one of their baby teeth sooner than expected, space maintainers are used to ensure that the other teeth do not begin to grow into the now empty space. A fixed space maintainer uses a band to attach to one tooth and wire to keep the gap open, which allows the permanent tooth to grow in exactly as it is supposed to.

Orthodontists can evaluate a child's mouth at a young age to determine whether or not space maintainers are needed. 

TMJ treatment

Whether a patient thinks that they have this common jaw-related disorder or has recently been diagnosed with a temporomandibular joint disorder, an orthodontist can diagnose and treat this disorder. Many orthodontists are equipped to treat TMJ. Jaw repositioning appliances are often used to realign the jaw back into its proper position so that pain or irritation can be reduced or relieved. 

Are you currently in need of orthodontic treatment?

Now that you understand what an orthodontist does, do you need to make an appointment to address your orthodontic problems? During your initial consultation appointment, you will learn everything that needs to be done in order to correct your orthodontic problems. Our team of orthodontists can help you outline this plan which will include a timeline so that you know what to expect. Give us a call or stop by today.

Are you considering using an orthodontist in the Rockville area? Get more information at https://whiteflintfamilydental.com.

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