Who they Are And What They Do
An orthodontist is a dental specialist focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating misaligned teeth and jaws. While all orthodontists are dentists, not all dentists are orthodontists. After completing dental school, orthodontist the woodlands tx orthodontists undergo an additional 2 to 3 years of specialized training in orthodontics, which equips them with advanced knowledge and skills to correct bite problems and straighten teeth.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
Orthodontists treat a wide range of dental alignment issues, such as crooked teeth, overcrowding, gaps, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and jaw misalignments. Their primary goal is to improve both the function and appearance of your smile.
Treatment usually involves the use of appliances like braces, clear aligners (e.g., Invisalign), retainers, and sometimes more complex devices such as expanders or headgear. orthodontist the woodlands tx These tools gradually shift teeth and jaws into their proper positions over time, improving oral health and facial aesthetics.
Why See an Orthodontist?
Orthodontic treatment offers several benefits beyond just straightening teeth. Proper alignment can:
- Improve chewing and speech
- Reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease by making teeth easier to clean
- Prevent excessive wear on teeth and jaw joints
- Enhance self-confidence through a more attractive smile
The Orthodontic Process
When you visit an orthodontist for the first time, they will conduct a thorough examination, which often includes X-rays, photographs, orthodontic treatment adult the woodlands tx and dental impressions. Based on this assessment, they create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
The duration of orthodontic treatment varies but generally lasts from several months to a few years, depending on the complexity of the case.