If you ever had braces, you would most probably know who an orthodontist is. However, in the field of dentistry, a dentist goes by many names, like an orthodontist, endodontist, periodontist, and oral surgeon. Specifically, dentists are highly skilled professionals who specialize in dealing with a specific oral problem, unlike dentists who tend to help with generic dental needs. Hence, when you visit a dentist, they will refer you to a specialist if your mouth needs special care.
An orthodontist is one such specialist that caters to teeth alignment problems, for example, underbite or crooked teeth.
How An Orthodontist Differs From A Dentist:
All orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists. Essentially, orthodontists undertake the same dental training as dentists do, so they have a solid basic dental background. However, they opt for further studies, which enhance their skill set to solve particular problems (teeth alignment in this case).
Orthodontists usually work with braces, custom-made mouth guards, and treat bite levels.
How Long Does A Typical Orthodontic Treatment, Like Getting Braces, Take:
The science of orthodontics stands firm on the remarkable capability of teeth to shift during their lifetime. However, it’s a slow process, and that’s why an ongoing orthodontic treatment lasts for a year or two, depending on each case’s severity. During this time, an orthodontist will schedule regular check-ups every month or two. Regular check-ups help the dentist to track the progress of the treatment.
Moreover, teeth are very stubborn. Hence, they will move back into their original order if you stop the treatment midway or loosen up on the instructions given to you by your orthodontist.
How Does An Orthodontist Dea With Teeth Alignment Problems:
Traditionally, orthodontists used braces to “discipline” crooked teeth. However, as dental technology progressed, many adopted new and innovative approaches to the problem, such as Invisalign. Despite the varying treatment choice, many intermediate processes remained the same, for example:
- Dental X Rays: X-rays from several different angles help orthodontists understand the whole “picture.”
- Impression: A bite plate filled with alginate material is placed inside the mouth, and the person is asked to bite down on it. The plate records the bite impression that the orthodontist will use to make a 3D model.
Problems Caused By Misaligned Teeth:
It’s interesting to note that a whole branch of specialization is dedicated to treating crooked teeth, so crooked teeth must be a critical issue, right? In fact, it is, crooked teeth are not only a problem itself, but they can give rise to further problems, such as:
Poor Oral Hygiene: It’s harder to clean teeth.
Tooth Decay: When teeth are harder to clean, cavities start to build up quickly.
Unlevel Bite: The bite level is not uniform and may cause the person to suffer from an over or underbite.
Enamel Wear: Unlevel bites put extra stress on a few teeth. Hence, these teeth undergo expedited enamel wear and tear.
In essence, we can term crooked teeth as the root of many problems. Therefore, it requires special attention and care. Fortunately, Bayside Dental And Orthodontics is here to do just that. Visit us or call us at 979-330-4113 to restore the “perfect” smile you deserve.