Orthodontics

People often associate a perfect smile with good health. It’s true — your oral health plays an important role in your overall well-being. Malocclusion, or misaligned teeth, can lead to dental issues, including tooth decay, gum disease, and difficult or painful chewing.

However, not everyone is born with straight teeth. If you have a bad bite or large spaces between your teeth, you may want to consult a dentist specializing in orthodontic care.

An orthodontist is a dentist trained to diagnose, prevent, and treat teeth and jaw irregularities. They correct existing conditions and are trained to identify problems that may develop in the future. Orthodontists work with people of all ages, from children to adults.

What Does an Orthodontist Do?

Orthodontists use fixed and removable dental devices, like braces, retainers, and bands, to change the position of teeth in the mouth. They treat dental abnormalities, including:

Crooked teeth

• Bite problems, like an overbite or an underbite
• Crowded teeth, or teeth that are too far apart
• Jaw misalignment
• The goal of orthodontic care is to improve a patient’s bite. Teeth that are straight and evenly spaced will align with opposing teeth in the jaw. A healthy bite ensures you can eat, chew, and speak properly. In the past, seeing an orthodontist was associated with children or teenagers who needed braces. However, orthodontists can correct dental problems at any age.

Reasons to See an Orthodontist

Misalignment, or malocclusion, is the most common reason people see an orthodontist. It’s hereditary and is the result of size differences between the upper and lower jaw, or between the jaw and the teeth. Malocclusion leads to tooth overcrowding, a misshapen jaw, or irregular bite patterns. Malocclusion is usually treated with:

Braces or Dental Appliances

Metal, ceramic, or plastic square bonds are attached to the teeth. A set of wires or springs apply force and move teeth into alignment. Patients with minor malocclusion often use clear braces, called aligners, instead of traditional braces. Some patients may need headgear to help move teeth into alignment with pressure from outside the mouth.