For most of us making out a clear difference between a dentist and an orthodontist can be a bit difficult. Well, an orthodontist is the one who takes care of the placement, size and shape of the teeth. While a dentist is primarily responsible for the overall oral health, an orthodontist ensures that the teeth are in the right place so as to prevent malocclusion.
Malocclusion or difficulty in biting, often in the form of overbite or underbite is a direct result of poorly placed teeth. The reason for an improper smile line too is misaligned teeth and a simple orthodontic procedure like installing dental braces, reposition of teeth and roots etc. may be enough to align the teeth and regain self-confidence.
However, one of the most commonly believed myths about orthodontic procedures is that it only helps teenagers and younger patients. Well, not only is this absolutely false but what is even more surprising is the fact that more than 30% of those now seeking an orthodontist’s services are adults. This shows that jaw re-alignment, teeth alignment and other similar treatments can help an adult as well as a teenager.
Well, it goes without saying that it has been commonly observed that the earlier the treatment begins, the quicker the recovery is and that is why most of those suffering from malocclusion, jaw misalignment etc. recommended to seek medical help from an experienced orthodontist as early as they can.
So what can an orthodontist do for you? Well, an orthodontist can prepare individualized treatment plan by –
- Examining the interior of the mouth.
- Taking facial as well as intraoral photographs
- Taking x-rays of the dental/jaw structure
- Taking teeth impressions to prepare braces or devise other corrective measures.
However, it usually takes at least a couple of visits to an orthodontist before any treatment is actually initiated. The term of orthodontic treatment may vary from a few months to a few years. By the second visit an orthodontist is usually able to tell how long the treatment will continue. An orthodontist may also recommend using a retainer for a period of time even after the treatment gets over.
Today a majority of people visiting orthodontists have found the perfect smile that they only dreamt of, a perfect bite, great oral health and renewed confidence. So why wait? Visiting an orthodontist can be a big step on the way to the perfect set of teeth and a million dollar smile.