WHAT IS ORTHODONTICS?
Orthodontics is a dental specialty that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of tooth misalignments and jaw irregularities (malocclusions) using braces, clear aligners and other appliances. Not just for aesthetic enhancement, orthodontics also serves to improve a patient’s overall oral health for a lifetime, and can even help with speech impediments. A properly aligned bite makes it easier to eat, smile and speak!
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A DENTIST AND AN ORTHODONTIST?
An orthodontist is a dentist who chooses to specialize in the alignment of teeth, attending an additional three years of training beyond dental school in a university with an orthodontic residency program. While some general dentists do offer braces to patients, an orthodontist is the expert in recognizing and treating tooth alignment and bite issues.
HOW LONG DOES ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT TAKE?
Treatment typically takes 6-30 months and is dependent upon age, severity of alignment issues, and the treatment method that is used.