Orthodontic Dentistry
An orthodontist is a dentist that has specialized in doing braces as well as other appliances that help to straighten and realign the teeth. Not only does an orthodontist go to dental school, but they go on to get additional qualifications that allows them to specialize in this field.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
When many people think of orthodontist they think of someone who works on braces, but actually an orthodontist actually specializes in the field of orthodontics. Orthodontics is mostly about proper alignment of the teeth.
There are three different classes of deformity that are referred to in orthodontics and everybody falls into one. These classes are cleverly called class one, class two, and class three! These deformities have to do with the alignment of the upper and lower jaw. They are also sometimes referred to as malocclusions. Orthodontists specialize in correcting these skeletal defects.
People may want to see an orthodontist if they would like to have their teeth straightened for cosmetic reasons. In fact many people think that, straightening the teeth for cosmetic purposes is the only reason to see an orthodontist. This is simply not the case.
Sever malocclusions can affect the ability to eat and speak. In some cases it can even affect the ability the breath properly. This can lead to sleep apnea. While some minor orthodontic cases can be treated by your general dentist, it is important that cases like these, with sever abnormalities be treated by an orthodontist.
Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontists use several methods for diagnosing the problem. The first thing they will do is look at an x –ray. This will help them diagnose the bone structure. If you go to an orthodontist they will probably take two x-rays one is called a panoramic and the other is called cephalometric.
- A panoramic x-ray will take a picture of all of your teeth in one shot.
- A cephalometric x-ray takes a profile picture of your skull and jaw structure.
An Orthodontist will also take pictures of your teeth using a digital camera or an old fashion Polaroid camera. These pictures will help him to decide which treatment will be best for you. The will also be put in your file as a record of what your teeth looked like previous to treatment. Some orthodontists will give you a copy of your record at the end of your treatment so you can see the difference.
The orthodontist or his staff will also take impressions of your teeth. From these impressions they are able to make a model of your teeth. This model is used for the orthodontist to study. It is also used as a record of what your teeth looked like prior to treatment and it will be kept for several years after treatment has finished.
Braces aren’t the only apparatus that an orthodontist will use to straighten your teeth. It is becoming increasingly popular for younger children to have an expander. This appliance helps to expand the upper of lower jaw as the child’s adult teeth come in. This allows more room in the mouth and stops crowding from happening.
An orthodontist might also ask you to wear a head gear, face mask, retainer, of quad helix. These are all a part of orthodontic work.
Hopefully now you have a better understanding of what an orthodontist is and how an orthodontist might be able to help you or someone that you know.
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