What is an Orthodontist? When is Orthodontic Treatment Necessary?
Oral and dental health is vital not only for an aesthetic smile but also for healthy chewing, speech, and overall quality of life. Crowded teeth, incompatibilities in the jaw structure, or closure (bite) problems can lead to both health and aesthetic issues over time. This is where an orthodontist comes into play.
What is an Orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dentist who, after graduating from the faculty of dentistry, receives specialist training in the field of orthodontics and specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of dental and jaw disorders.
Orthodontics, on the other hand, is the branch of dentistry concerned with the correct positioning of teeth and jaws. The primary goals of orthodontics are to ensure the proper alignment of teeth, correct discrepancies in the jaw structure, improve oral functions, and achieve an aesthetic smile.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
The primary duty of orthodontists is to ensure the correct alignment of teeth and the jaw structure and to treat any existing disorders.
Orthodontic Examination and Diagnosis
An orthodontist examines the patient's oral and jaw structure in detail. During this process, an intraoral examination is performed, X-ray images are reviewed, photographs and impressions are taken, and the jaw and tooth structure are analyzed. Based on this data, a personalized treatment plan is prepared.
Correction of Dental Crowding
Irregularly aligned teeth are one of the most common reasons for needing orthodontic treatment. The orthodontist moves the teeth to their ideal positions by applying appropriate forces.
Treatment of Jaw Incompatibilities
Orthodontic treatment may be required if the upper and lower jaws are incompatible with each other. In some patients, this condition is treated solely with orthodontic methods, while in others, it is treated with surgical support.
Correction of Malocclusions (Bite Problems)
Chewing and speech problems can arise when the closing relationship of the teeth is not correct. The orthodontist treats these conditions.
In Which Cases is Orthodontic Treatment Necessary?
-Dental crowding
-Gaps between teeth
-Lower and upper jaw incompatibility
-Upper and lower teeth not making contact upon closing (Open bite)
-Upper teeth excessively covering the lower teeth (Deep bite)
-Crossbite
-Impacted or incorrectly positioned teeth
Which Treatments Does an Orthodontist Apply?
-Metal Bracket Treatment: The most classic orthodontic treatment method. Teeth are brought to their ideal position with the help of metal brackets and wires placed on the teeth.
-Clear Bracket Treatment: It has a more aesthetic appearance compared to metal brackets and is especially preferred by adult patients.
-Lingual Orthodontics: Brackets are placed on the inner surfaces of the teeth. It is advantageous from an aesthetic point of view as it is not visible from the outside.
-Clear Aligner Treatment: Transparent and removable aligners are used to move the teeth.
-Jaw Development Treatments: Some orthodontic treatments applied during childhood aim to guide jaw development.
-Orthognathic Surgery-Supported Orthodontics: In advanced jaw disorders, orthodontic treatment can be applied in conjunction with surgical procedures.
At What Age Can Orthodontic Treatment Be Applied?
There is no age limit for orthodontic treatment; however, the treatment process may vary depending on the patient's age.
In childhood, jaw development can be guided. During adolescence, tooth movements occur faster. In adults, treatment is possible, but the process may take longer.
What Are the Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment?
-A more aesthetic smile
-Easier cleaning of teeth
-Reduced risk of tooth decay
-Prevention of gum diseases
-Improvement of chewing function
-Reduction of speech problems
-Prevention of jaw joint problems
