Choosing An Orthodontist: When To Go And Reasons To Seek a Consult

Although they are happy, some people resist the urge to smile. Some will cover their mouths with their hands. That's when they should see an orthodontist Broomfield.

Getting a healthy smile

Orthodontists are dentists with advanced training in the movement of teeth. They can straighten crooked teeth so they are in a straight, healthy line. Even though teenagers used to be the only ones to receive this treatment option, times have changed. Adults can now get the smile they always dreamed of.

In the US, one in five orthodontic patients is an adult, according to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). Here are a few things that people should know before seeing an orthodontist broomfield.

What do orthodontists do?

The top priority for an orthodontist is the same for adults and children - to treat a malocclusion, also known as a “bad bite.” Orthodontists help to straighten the teeth and improve the person’s bite by correcting how their teeth fit together and how the person’s jaw lines up. Orthodontists use staples, trays (also known as aligners) and other devices - such as headgear that attach around the head or neck to add enough force so the patient’s teeth move into their correct position. They also use trays to hold the teeth in place.

General dentists often refer patients to orthodontists and sometimes doctors such as pediatricians. This is more likely when a child does not like their teeth and is teased about them. To become an orthodontist, someone has to complete four years of dental school, then two to three years of specialized training in orthodontics.

Most general dentists can treat minor orthodontic problems and some may even do orthodontic work. But many dentists are more likely to refer their complicated cases to an orthodontist.

Why should you see an orthodontist?

Most patients just view orthodontics as a way to straighten teeth, but one of the most important factors to consider is the way the bite is brought together at the end of treatment. Curved or overcrowded teeth, as well as overbites and underbites, can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and even tooth loss. That's because overlapping teeth can be hard to clean.

A bad bite can also cause problems with chewing and speaking. Not to mention, a bad bite can cause too much wear, grinding and pressing on the teeth and jaw. When this occurs, people should look into invisalign broomfield.

Orthodontics has come a long way over the years. Primitive but well-designed orthodontic appliances have been found with Greek and Etruscan artifacts. Contact a specialist to learn more about braces broomfield.