What is an Orthodontist?
Orthodontists are specialised dental professionals who have committed many years to additional study beyond their basic dental degree. They specialise in diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities, which is a vital part of ensuring optimal oral health. Their main focus is on ‘malocclusions’, or what you might call ‘improper bites’. These can be caused by tooth irregularity, disproportionate jaw relationships, or a combination of the two.
Training and Expertise
Before becoming an orthodontist, a person must first complete a minimum of five years’ general dental training. Following this, they’re required to undertake at least three additional years of full-time university study specifically focused on orthodontics. This rigorous and extensive education and training make them the experts in managing complex issues related to the growth and development of the face, teeth, and jaws.
Services Provided by Orthodontists
Orthodontists cater to a wide range of dental issues, from simple tooth misalignment to more complex issues like severe malocclusions, jaw growth problems, and dental health issues that are related to misaligned teeth. To address these, they provide a variety of treatments such as braces, retainers, and aligners. In recent years, invisible or clear aligners have gained popularity as a modern and less intrusive alternative to traditional braces.
Orthodontic Treatment is for Everyone
Orthodontics isn’t just for children or teenagers. It’s a common misconception that we should outgrow such treatments. In fact, more and more adults are seeking orthodontic treatment to improve their smile and overall dental health. Orthodontists are equipped to offer customised treatment plans for patients of all ages, ensuring everyone can achieve a healthy and attractive smile.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment goes beyond enhancing one’s appearance. Sure, it helps create a confident, beautiful smile, which in turn can significantly boost self-esteem. But it also brings substantial oral health benefits. Having properly aligned teeth can alleviate issues such as difficulty in speaking or chewing, prevent excessive wear of tooth surfaces, and relieve stress on gum tissue and the bone that supports the teeth.
The Impact on Overall Oral Health
Orthodontic treatment isn’t solely about straightening teeth. It plays a vital role in maintaining overall oral health. Well-aligned teeth are easier to clean, which can reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, good alignment can prevent conditions caused by physical stress on oral structures, like temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
In Conclusion
In essence, orthodontists are dental specialists who excel in correcting dental and facial irregularities. They’re integral to oral healthcare, and their work on aligning teeth and jaws greatly enhances both the functionality and aesthetics of a patient’s smile. If you have concerns about your teeth alignment or bite, an orthodontist is the professional you should turn to.
Remember, a healthy smile is more than just a beautiful one—it plays a crucial role in overall dental health and wellbeing. Orthodontists, with their comprehensive training and expertise, are well-equipped to guide you on this journey. So why not get in touch with a local orthodontist and take that first step toward a healthier, more confident smile?