What an Orthodontist Does for Teeth and Dental Alignment
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting irregularities of the teeth and jaws. Through clinical assessment, imaging, and custom treatment plans, orthodontists aim to improve both function and appearance by aligning teeth and optimizing bite relationships. Their work often involves appliances such as braces and clear aligners to move teeth gradually into healthier positions.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.
What is orthodontic care?
Orthodontic care is a branch of dentistry that concentrates on tooth movement and jaw alignment. Treatment begins with an assessment of dental development, occlusion (bite), and facial growth. Orthodontic care can address crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. Treatment timing varies: some patients start in childhood during growth phases, while others pursue adult treatment. The goal is functional occlusion, improved oral hygiene access, and long-term stability.
How do braces work?
Braces are fixed appliances composed of brackets, archwires, and sometimes elastics, designed to apply continuous, gentle pressure to teeth. The brackets are bonded to each tooth and connected by wires that are periodically adjusted. Over time, bone remodels in response to the applied forces, allowing teeth to shift into new positions. Braces can treat a wide range of alignment and bite issues and are often recommended when precise tooth movement or significant correction is required.
When are aligners appropriate?
Clear aligners are removable, transparent trays that fit over the teeth and progressively move them when worn as prescribed. They are often selected for mild to moderate alignment issues, patient preference for aesthetics, and easier oral hygiene compared with fixed braces. Successful aligner therapy depends on patient compliance, as trays typically must be worn 20 to 22 hours per day. Complex skeletal or severe bite problems may still require fixed appliances or combined orthodontic and surgical approaches.
How do orthodontists assess teeth and planning?
Assessment begins with a clinical exam and dental history, often supplemented by radiographs, photographs, and digital scans. These records help the orthodontist evaluate tooth positions, jaw relationships, and growth patterns. A treatment plan outlines objectives, estimated duration, appliance types (braces, aligners, or other devices), and retention strategies to maintain results after active treatment. Regular progress checks ensure movement is on track and adjustments are made as needed to protect dental health.
Finding local dental and orthodontic services
Selecting a qualified orthodontist involves verifying credentials, looking at before-and-after cases, and understanding practice logistics such as appointment frequency and available technologies (digital scans, 3D imaging). Many practices offer initial consultations to discuss goals and options. Patients should consider comfort with the proposed plan, options for financing or insurance coverage, and proximity to local services to minimize missed appointments and support successful outcomes.
Conclusion
Orthodontists combine clinical expertise, diagnostic tools, and appliances like braces and aligners to correct teeth alignment and bite issues. Treatment is individualized and may span months to years depending on complexity and growth factors. Clear communication with a qualified orthodontic or dental professional helps ensure that treatment goals, timelines, and maintenance strategies are realistic and aligned with the patient’s oral health needs.
