Services Offered By An Orthodontist
Orthodontists specialize in diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities. Their services encompass a range of treatments designed to correct issues with teeth alignment, bite, and jaw relationships. Here’s an inclusive look at the various services provided by an orthodontist near me:
Inclusive orthodontic evaluation
The initial service an orthodontist provides is a thorough evaluation of your dental and facial structure. This includes taking X-rays, photographs, and dental impressions to assess the alignment of teeth and the bite. The orthodontist uses this information to diagnose any orthodontic issues and develop a customized treatment plan.
Traditional metal braces
Traditional metal braces are one of the most common treatments for correcting misaligned teeth and bite issues. These braces consist of metal brackets bonded to the teeth, connected by wires and rubber bands. Regular adjustments are made to gradually shift teeth into their proper positions. Metal braces are effective for treating a wide range of orthodontic problems.
Lingual braces
Lingual braces are placed on the back surfaces of the teeth, making them virtually invisible from the front. They offer a cosmetic alternative for those who require braces but do not want visible appliances. Lingual braces are custom-made to fit the contours of your teeth and require careful maintenance due to their location.
Retainers
After the completion of orthodontic treatment, retainers are used to maintain the new position of teeth. Orthodontists provide various types of retainers, including fixed and removable options. Regular follow-up appointments ensure that the retainers are functioning properly and that teeth remain in their corrected positions.
Interceptive orthodontics
Interceptive orthodontics involves early treatment interventions to address orthodontic issues before they develop into more complex problems. This may include the use of space maintainers to preserve space for permanent teeth or early correction of bite issues to guide proper dental development.
Orthodontic appliances
Orthodontists also use various appliances to address specific issues, such as expanders to widen the upper jaw or headgear to correct bite problems. These appliances are often used in conjunction with braces or aligners to achieve inclusive treatment results.
In cases where orthodontic issues are severe and cannot be corrected with braces or aligners alone, surgical orthodontics may be required. This involves coordinated treatment with oral and maxillofacial surgeons to correct jaw and skeletal issues, improving both function and aesthetics.