An article is a piece of writing used to convey news, research or analysis. It is typically published in a print or online medium, such as daily newspapers, political blogs or club newsletters. Orthodontic treatment aims to correct these problems by encouraging the teeth and jaw to grow into an optimal position. An orthodontist can use a variety of “appliances” to do this, including dental braces (which consist of metal, ceramic, or clear (“invisible”) brackets affixed to each individual tooth, connected by wires that apply pressure) and removable appliances such as headgear and facemasks.

Orthodontists specialize in correcting misalignments of the teeth and jaw, a condition known as malocclusion. The most common treatment is dental braces, which compel the teeth to align; other devices they use include headgear and facemasks.

Alignment of Teeth and Mouth

Having well-aligned teeth is more than just an aesthetic concern. Crooked teeth and an improper bite can lead to issues such as increased risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and difficulties with chewing and speaking.

In addition, a orthodontist can also prescribe custom-made retainers to help keep the new alignment intact over time. When the orthodontic process is complete, patients can enjoy the benefits of their straighter smile, which can boost self-esteem and improve oral health and function. Properly aligned teeth are also easier to brush and floss, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

Identifying Issues

Orthodontists are highly trained to identify and treat alignment problems. They conduct a thorough assessment of the teeth and jaws, which may include X-rays and digital photographs, to identify issues like crooked teeth, overcrowding, gaps, and bite problems.

For example, crooked teeth can occur due to genetics or insufficient space in the jaw, and they can make cleaning the mouth more difficult and increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. The same is true for spaces between teeth, which can be caused by early loss of baby teeth or habits such as thumb sucking.

Getting regular orthodontic assessments can help to identify these issues and avoid serious oral health complications in the future. Orthodontic treatments such as braces and clear aligners can often fix these issues, boosting aesthetics and enhancing function. The orthodontist can also offer recommendations based on the patient’s needs and goals. By documenting the patient’s dental history thoroughly, they can provide more accurate treatment plans.

Treatment

Orthodontists use a variety of treatment methods to address issues like crooked teeth and jaw misalignment. They conduct thorough examinations that may include panoramic X-rays and study models (bite impressions).

Treatment options can vary but typically consist of braces, which are used to straighten teeth. During orthodontic treatment, patients must follow instructions for proper oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing around the dental appliances.

Crowded teeth are another common reason people visit orthodontists. Overcrowded teeth are hard to clean and can lead to tooth decay, which requires additional dental work down the road. In some cases, orthodontists may recommend headgear, which is worn at night to help prevent crowded teeth from developing more severe problems. Other treatments include aligners, which are clear removable trays that straighten the teeth. Orthodontists also treat impacted teeth, which are partially or fully stuck under the gum tissue or bone. These are often the result of a blocked eruption pathway, such as crowding or a missing tooth.

Return Visits

Orthodontic treatment is a long-term commitment and patients need to return regularly for appointments. Creating a positive experience throughout the entire process can help encourage and even incentivize patients to schedule return appointments. Implementing strategies like optimizing appointment scheduling, using dental intelligence tools for automatic recalls and follow-ups, and delivering personalized follow up emails and voicemail messages to each patient can all be helpful in keeping patients engaged with your practice and committed to your services.

During regular visits, orthodontists will inspect the patient’s progress and make adjustments to their braces or aligners as needed. These appointments can take up to a couple of hours and are important for the overall success of the treatment.

Traveling orthodontists are another option for orthodontic care, but this option often fails because they cannot provide the same level of service as a local practice. A traveling orthodontist does not have access to the same records, causing delays in treatment and requiring valuable time for them to re-establish their history with the patient.