Orthodontists are specialist dentists who diagnose and treat overcrowded teeth, under- or overbite, and misaligned jaws. They use traditional metal braces and clear ceramic braces to correct occlusion and straighten teeth. An orthodontist near me is a dentist with specialized training in diagnosing and treating teeth and jaw issues. They use braces, retainers, and other devices to fix crooked teeth, an unbalanced bite (known as malocclusion), and other dental problems that may lead to gum disease or tooth decay. They also work to improve the appearance of a patient’s smile.

An unbalanced bite can cause early tooth wear and increase the risk of gum disease. Orthodontic treatment can help to prevent these problems by balancing the bite and improving the appearance of your smile.

Location

An orthodontist can be found near you by using an online directory. Once you have narrowed down the list of potential orthodontists, make sure that they are licensed and have completed two to three years of advanced orthodontic training. This information should be posted on their website.

You should also consider whether an orthodontist conducts research and stays on top of the latest advancements in orthodontic care. The best orthodontists will be able to provide you with the most up-to-date treatment options, such as Invisalign, that can reduce your treatment time by half. The top orthodontists will also be able to answer any questions you might have about orthodontic treatment.

Qualifications

Orthodontists are trained in creating a healthy bite, developing proper alignment, and evaluating and diagnosing abnormalities of the teeth and jaws. They study diagnostic records, such as medical or dental histories, plaster models of the teeth and X-rays, to develop patient treatment plans. They also use various appliances to alter the shape of the jaw and teeth. In most states, orthodontists and general dentists must undergo 40 hours of continuing education a year to keep current with new research and clinical developments.

A career as an orthodontist can be extremely rewarding, but it also requires a long and rigorous educational journey. It takes up to 11 years to become an orthodontist, including four years to obtain a bachelor’s degree and four more to complete dental school. During dental school, there is stiff competition for orthodontic residencies, so applicants must be very strong academically and excel in extracurricular activities. They must also possess good interpersonal skills to collaborate with other dentists and patients.

Experience

The best orthodontists will have a wide range of experience. Having a variety of treatments allows them to treat a wider range of issues such as tooth crowding, overcrowding and misalignment. Orthodontics is a special branch of dentistry focused on teeth and jaw alignment. While dentists have all the same education as orthodontists, they focus on other aspects of oral health like dental care and tooth decay.

A good orthodontist should be able to diagnose the problem and recommend the best treatment. They will typically perform a visual examination, panoramic x-rays and study models to determine the extent of the problem and how it should be addressed. They will also have a range of orthodontic options that can correct the problem such as fixed braces and clear aligners. They may also offer more invasive treatments such as headgear or jaw surgery for severe cases. The orthodontist will also be able to advise you on early orthodontic options for your children if needed.

Reputation

A good orthodontist has a reputation for great work, a clean office environment and fair prices. Whether you’re looking for traditional braces or Invisalign, a good orthodontist will be able to create a treatment plan that fits your needs and budget.

Orthodontics is one of the oldest branches of dentistry. It focuses on shifting your teeth and aligning your jaw. Crooked teeth are not just a cosmetic concern, they can cause bite problems and other oral health issues.

Dentists specialize in your overall oral health, cleaning your teeth, gums and nerves. They also provide procedures like tooth extraction and crowns. Orthodontists are dentists who have gone through additional schooling to focus on occlusion (how your teeth fit together) and straightening your smile.

Choosing an orthodontist near you requires some research. Make sure you choose a practice that offers the treatments and services you need, has a convenient location and a friendly staff. It’s also important to consider your financial situation, as orthodontic treatments aren’t typically covered by dental insurance.