5 Reasons You Should See An Orthodontist
If you have a dental problem, you are probably wondering whether to see a dentist or an orthodontist. Do the two doctors have the same qualifications? Yes, they get the same training, but orthodontists have additional educational certification. Dentists who specialize in orthodontic care are highly trained to diagnose and treat jaw and teeth irregularities.
Here are five services you can get when you visit one:
1. Crooked Teeth Treatment
Crooked teeth are a common problem in the United States. It is estimated that one-third of Americans are unhappy with their smile due to crooked teeth. If you have this problem too, it can significantly affect eating, talking, and lower your self-esteem. Don't allow this condition to make you feel self-conscious. Just visit an orthodontist and discuss with them existing remedies for the problem.
2. Treatment for Misaligned Teeth
This dental condition is known as malocclusion. For normal people, teeth easily fit inside their mouth without crowding. Also, your lower jaw teeth should slightly overlap with your lower jaw teeth. However, changes in alignment occur, increasing the risk of biting your lips, tongue, and cheeks. In the US, 20% of the population experience significant deviations from the ideal bite relationship. If you have this problem, please visit an orthodontist. The doctor will examine your teeth, perform an x-ray, and recommend the proper treatment.
3. Facial Dento-Growth Supervision
If you have children, it's advisable to take them to an orthodontist regularly for facial dento-growth supervision. If your child has severe dental irregularity, it is likely to alter their facial structures. Most dentofacial anomalies can be corrected in childhood, and that's why occasional supervision is vital. Orthodontists will recommend the proper corrective treatment aimed at establishing stable and optimum occlusal relationships.
4. Dental Appliances Installation
If you have misaligned or crooked teeth, the orthodontist will recommend the use of braces. It is estimated that about four million Americans are wearing braces at any one time. These wires or springs will straighten your teeth by applying constant pressure on them. After some time, your teeth will move back into their normal position, resulting in an overall healthier mouth.
5. Teeth Straightening Surgery
In some cases, teeth misalignment may be so severe that it can't be corrected by dental appliances. For instance, if you have a complicated overbite or underbite, corrective surgery is necessary to shorten or lengthen the jaws.
In such a case, the orthodontist will use surgical screws, wires, or plates to correct the jawbone. After the surgery, you will have improved biting, chewing, facial symmetry, and overall appearance.
Takeaway
Not all oral conditions are taken to a dentist. Most dental abnormalities, such as crooked teeth, bite problems, crowded teeth, and jaw misalignment, are corrected by an orthodontist. Please book an appointment with one if you have jaw irregularity problems. Schedule a consultation with someone like Laveen Smiles.