Orthodontics is the specialty branch of dentistry specifically involved in the correction of malaligned teeth and facial bones. The term “orthodontics” comes from two Greek words – “orthos”, meaning correct or straight, and “odontos”, meaning tooth. “Facial orthopedics” means normal face and bones, which implies much more than simply straight teeth. To align the teeth and facial bones, orthodontists use braces and other corrective appliances to create a healthy, functional, and attractive smile.

What is an Orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a specialist in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. All orthodontists are dentists, but only approximately 6% of all dentists are orthodontists.

After completing undergraduate college requirements, an orthodontist must obtain a doctorate degree (a Doctor of Dental Surgery, or D.D.S., degree; or its equivalent degree, Doctor of Dental Medicine, or D.M.D.) from a dental school accredited by the American Dental Association (ADA). An orthodontist must then go on to complete an additional two to three years of advanced orthodontic specialty education in an ADA-accredited orthodontic program.

What causes orthodontic problems?

Most orthodontic problems are inherited. Some examples of these genetic problems are crowding, spacing, protrusion, extra or missing teeth and some jaw growth problems. It is true that some individuals inherit “mom’s jaws and dad’s teeth”, or vice versa.

Other orthodontic problems are acquired; that is, they develop over time. They can be a result of thumb- or finger-sucking, mouth breathing, dental disease, abnormal or tongue-thrust swallowing, poor dental hygiene, early or late loss of primary (baby) teeth, loss of permanent teeth, accidents or trauma, poor nutrition, or some medical problems.

What are the benefits of orthodontics?

For most people, a beautiful smile and enhanced self-confidence is the most obvious benefit of orthodontic treatment. However, there are also many other advantages of having teeth and jaws that are properly aligned. Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain. This can result in tooth decay, accelerated periodontal (or gum) disease and/or tooth loss. Other orthodontic problems can contribute to abnormal and excessive wear of tooth surfaces, inefficient chewing, excessive stress on the tissues and bone that support the teeth, and excessive strain on the jaw joints (TMJs).

When is the best time to begin orthodontics?

Although an orthodontist can enhance smile esthetics and function at any age, there is an optimal time for each individual to begin treatment. For example, some types of orthodontic problems require early intervention to facilitate proper development, while others are most easily and efficiently corrected after all of the permanent teeth have erupted or during active growing periods of the face and jaws. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be indicated, but vigilant observation can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment. Of course, even if you are well into adulthood, there are still options available to you to achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. It is never too late to move your teeth!

How long is orthodontic treatment?

Treatment duration typically ranges from one-and-a-half to two years, but can be longer or shorter depending on the severity of the problem. Advances in technology and material sciences have made orthodontic treatment more efficient than ever before. In growing patients, the development of their teeth and jaws can have an influence on treatment time. All patients, including adults, will respond differently to orthodontic treatment. Compliance and cooperation with instructions, as well as avoiding broken appliances, are extremely important for your treatment to run on schedule. Interceptive, or early treatment procedures, may take as few as six months.