At Clearview Market Dental, we receive many questions about orthodontics and how it differs from general dentistry. Orthodontics plays a crucial role in improving both dental health and aesthetics. Whether you're considering braces or simply curious about the benefits of orthodontic treatment, we’re here to provide answers to the most frequently asked questions.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. Unlike general dentists, orthodontists receive additional years of specialized training in treating issues like crowding, gaps, bite problems, and jaw misalignments. They use various tools, including braces, clear aligners and retainers to straighten teeth and improve oral function. By addressing these concerns, orthodontists enhance not only the appearance of a smile but also long-term dental health.
What Is the Concept of Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that focuses on correcting dental and facial irregularities. Proper alignment of the teeth and jaws is essential for chewing, speaking, and overall oral health. Red Deer Orthodontic treatments help prevent excessive wear on teeth, reduce the risk of gum disease, and alleviate jaw pain caused by misalignment. This field is much more than just straightening teeth; it’s about creating a functional, healthy bite that benefits the entire mouth. Learn more about orthodontic treatment on the Alberta Health Services website.
What's the Difference Between a Dentist and an Orthodontist?
While both dentists and orthodontists work to improve oral health, their areas of expertise differ. A dentist provides general care, including cleanings, fillings, crowns, and gum disease treatment. An orthodontist, on the other hand, specializes in straightening teeth and correcting bite issues. Dentists handle a broad spectrum of dental concerns, whereas orthodontists focus specifically on alignment and occlusion problems.
Should I See a Dentist or an Orthodontist for Braces?
While some general dentists offer orthodontic treatments like Invisalign, it is typically best to see an orthodontist for braces. Orthodontists have specialized training in diagnosing and treating complex alignment issues, ensuring the best long-term results. If you’re unsure, your dentist can evaluate your needs and recommend whether orthodontic care is necessary.
Why Would a Dentist Refer You to an Orthodontist?
A dentist may refer you to an orthodontist if they identify issues such as overcrowding, spacing, bite misalignment, or jaw discrepancies during a routine check-up. Orthodontic treatment can help prevent future dental problems, including uneven wear on teeth, difficulty chewing, and increased risk of cavities due to improper spacing. Early intervention can often lead to better, more efficient treatment results.
Do Orthodontists Do Cleanings?
Orthodontists do not perform routine dental cleanings. Their focus is on diagnosing and treating misalignments of the teeth and jaw. Regular cleanings, cavity prevention, and gum health maintenance remain the responsibility of your general dentist. It’s essential to continue seeing your dentist for routine check-ups and cleanings, especially during orthodontic treatment, to maintain good oral hygiene.
Is Orthodontics Just Braces?
Orthodontics involves more than just braces. While braces are one of the most common orthodontic treatments, there are also clear aligners, retainers, space maintainers and even surgical procedures that help correct dental alignment issues. Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual, depending on the severity of their alignment problems and personal preferences.
Red Deer Orthodontics Questions Answered at Clearview Market Dental
Orthodontic treatment plays a key role in long-term dental health and confidence. If you’re considering orthodontic care, visit our Orthopedics and Orthodontics page to learn more about our services. We’re here to guide you on the path to a healthier, straighter smile.
Visit us at Clearview Market Dental!
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