An orthodontist is a dental primary care specialist that deals with the alignment of jaws, and mispositioned teeth. Their primary focus is the proper diagnosis of misaligned jaws, teeth, and the surrounding structures. Orthodontists are responsible for the treatment and care of the health condition called: “Malocclusions” or simply known as “Bad Bites”. They are professionally trained to help prevent, or intercept malocclusions to fully develop, and provide teeth strengthening procedures. If you’d like to read more about orthodontics treatments read what is suggested by this dentist in Epping.

When to Visit an Orthodontist

Here are the signs that you need to take into consideration to visit your orthodontist:

• Overbite or Underbite and Crossbite
• Crooked Teeth or Gaps
• Misaligned Jaw

These are the most common factors that your orthodontist can fix. Different conditions require different sets of procedures and treatment. A variety of orthodontic primary care treatments usually include braces, retainers, wires, palatal expanders, or headgears. The procedures are quite safe and do not usually require surgery. Although in some extreme cases, surgical procedures are the best option.

How it Works

Initially, your orthodontist will first conduct a clinical exam that includes a digital scan of your teeth, then take photos of your teeth and your face. Finally, a request for an X-ray is ordered for your mouth and head. The treatment plan depends on the information gathered from the data collected. When your orthodontist made a complete analysis, then you will be advised of the appropriate procedure.

In mild cases of malocclusions, a removable retainer is all that’s needed. However, in other severe cases, a surgical procedure might be recommended, although most cases only require braces.

What Are Braces?

If your case requires the help of braces, then your orthodontist will recommend the type that suits your condition. Cases vary from one patient to another, so no process is the same for everyone. The method is safe and effective, and to ensure the desired effect, regular checkups are needed for proper care and maintenance.

How do Braces work?

The basic function of braces is to apply constant pressure onto the teeth over a certain time frame to gradually place the teeth in the appropriate direction. This process proved to be an effective method to slowly change the shape of the jaw, as the teeth move. The pressure from the braces helps complete the effect. A routine checkup is also required to maintain the appropriate pressure, and for general maintenance. Your orthodontist will tell you when to remove the braces after the appropriate assessment.

Orthodontic Medical Insurance

Primary care organizations offer orthodontic treatment and care. The process is almost always a long-term benefit and does not typically require annual renewal. It is usually separate from dental benefit, and at times it may include procedures for oral surgery. It is always best to check your medical insurance for dental benefits first, to understand the coverage. Some procedures may also require a recommendation from your dentist first before a referral is made to your orthodontist.

Orthodontists help improve the quality of your smile and provide the correct alignment of your jaws for an improved bite.

These are beneficial not only for the sake of appearance but also for a better lifestyle. In some cases, misaligned teeth and jaws may cause an eating disorder that can lead to indigestion and other adverse health issues. Fortunately, there are orthodontists, experts in the field of teeth, and jaw abnormalities, that can help us with these types of medical conditions.