Orthodontics Overview
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics addresses dental and facial irregularities, such as misaligned teeth, mismatching jaws, and compromised bites. There are a variety of orthodontic treatment options to solve these issues. The most popular orthodontic procedures include the use of braces and clear aligners. At Brushwell Dental, our orthodontists treat patients of all ages—from children to seniors.
What can orthodontics do for you?
Orthodontics may offer a solution to any of these concerns:
- Overbite—your upper jaw extends beyond your lower jaw
- Underbite—your lower jaw extends beyond your upper jaw
- Crossbite—when individual teeth from your upper and lower jaw don’t meet uniformly.
- Openbite—when you can’t bite down all the way because the opposing teeth don’t make contact with each other
- Off-center midline—when the middle of your smile doesn’t align with the middle of your face
- Gapped teeth—when your teeth are spaced far apart
- Crowded teeth—when your teeth are squeezed close together, forcing them to move forward or back of the jaw
- Upper front teeth protrusion—when your front teeth extend too far forward
Even if you’re dealing with several alignment issues, they can often be treated together simultaneously.
What is the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?
An orthodontist is a dentist who, along with completing dental school, also completed an additional 3-year orthodontic residency training program. While some general dentists do provide braces and Invisalign to patients, their knowledge and expertise of dental alignment issues (and the management of risks involved) doesn’t compare to an orthodontist.
How long does an orthodontic treatment take?
Orthodontic treatment typically takes anywhere from 6 to 24 months, depending on severity of the problem being corrected and the treatment option being provided. And for simpler cases, it may take much less time. For more complex cases, it make take much longer.
I’m interested! What do I need to do next?
To determine if orthodontic treatment is the best solution for your situation, you must first consult with a restorative dentist or orthodontist, where a proper evaluation and diagnosis can be made. Only then can a treatment plan be devised for you. At Brushwell Dental, we have a team of doctors who can collaborate with our orthodontist, if necessary, without delay. This direct communication between our specialists allow for us to deliver you the most comprehensive care possible.
Children and Braces →
This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.