What is An Orthodontist? What do they do?
Many people think of braces when they think about an orthodontist. However, an orthodontist does much more. Orthodontists are specialists for teeth and jaw alignment to ensure you have the smile you deserve.
What an Orthodontist Does:
Braces
The care and placement of braces are a key service provided by an orthodontist. Braces are wires, brackets, and bands which are tightened over time to straighten teeth. Many patients are given braces to straighten and correct their teeth for a dazzling smile. Braces are often used for patients that are diagnosed with underbites, overbites, gaps, or crowded teeth.
Jaw Repositioning Appliances
Jaw repositioning appliances, otherwise known as splints, address problems with the upper and lower jaws. They are often used to help for those suffering from temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).
Space Maintainers
For some patients, space fillers need to be utilized to prevent teeth growing into space left by a missing tooth. They are used to keep a space open until more teeth fall out and adult teeth grow.
Cheek and Lip Bumpers
A patient whose cheeks and lips are applying pressure on their teeth resulting in pain and/or discomfort needs relief. Cheek and lip bumpers can help by keeping cheeks and away from teeth.
Aligners
Similar to braces, aligners are used to straighten teeth and align them. They can help address overbites, underbites, cross bites, open bites, or crowding.
Palatal Expander
Palatal expanders widen the curve of the upper jaw. The expander is fitted to the roof of the mouth and is adjusted via screws to push out the joints and bones in the mouth.
Removable Retainers
When the time comes for a patient’s braces to be removed, a retainer becomes an important aspect to help maintain a beautiful smile.
Headgear
Orthodontists often use headgear for patients needing to slow the growth of their jaw. Usually, a strap is placed around the back of a patient’s head and then attached to a wire in the front of the mouth. This slows the growth of the jaw and ensures that teeth are in the right place and fit properly with the jaw.
The Orthodontists at Laurel Bush Family Dentistry are committed to providing you the best in orthodontic care. Call for your consultation today.