An orthodontist is a dentist that specializes in the area of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis, prevention, and correction of malpositioned teeth and jaws, along with misaligned bite patterns. An orthodontist will utilize fixed and removable dental devices to change the position of teeth in your mouth. Some of these devices include braces, bands and retainers. Some of the abnormalities that an orthodontist will treat are:
- Bite problems; like an overbite or an underbite
- Crooked teeth
- Crowded teeth, or even teeth that are too far apart
- Jaw misalignment
The primary goal for an orthodontist is to improve the bite of a patient. Teeth that are in the mouth that are straight and evenly spaced will align with opposing teeth in the jaw. You know you have a healthy bite when you can chew, eat, and speak properly. In the past it was thought that orthodontists only treated children or teenagers… however this is not the case. Orthodontists are able to correct dental problems at any age.
