How To Know When It’s Time To See An Orthodontist

While smiling is a natural response in many people, one that doesn’t come with any forethought and isn’t given any consideration afterward, there are those for whom smiling is the cause of much worry. Often due to irregular or crooked teeth, their smile is often hidden behind a hand or consists of a tight-lipped grind to avoid feeling embarrassed by their teeth. Orthodontists are trained professionals specializing in fixing issues like these and helping restore their patient’s confident smile.

What is an Orthodontist?

Orthodontists specialize in helping patients who have misalignment in their teeth with orthodontic solutions that include braces, as well as more advanced equipment for more complicated cases. The Orthodontists job doesn’t end with teeth, those who suffer from overbites or other misalignments of the jaw can also benefit from their attention, as their specialty includes fixing conditions like these. Becoming an orthodontist requires an additional 2-3 years of education above and beyond that required for a general dentist.

What Types Of Equipment Do Orthodontist’s Use?

The most common equipment employed by orthodontists is braces, whether the traditional wire braces we’ve all seen or products like Invisalign which, ideally, you haven’t. These devices serve to realign our teeth into their proper formation, improving our bite and making it easier to properly clean them to prevent decay. Other equipment they use includes headgear for adjusting the position of our jaw to accommodate for conditions like an underbite, crossbite, etc.

So When Do I Need To See An Orthodontist?

If you have problems with teeth that are misaligned whether due to growing in crooked or due to issues affecting your jaw, an orthodontist should be your next stop. These experts are able to improve more than just the appearance of your teeth, through the work they do it’s possible for them to improve your overall appearance by reducing underbite or overbite that can have a distinct visual effect. Overcrowding is another condition that your orthodontist may be able to help with.

Do My Children Need To See An Orthodontist?

Your child should see an orthodontist at least once in their life around age 7. At this point, it is usually possible to identify any potential problems that may need orthodontic treatment, and it is possible to begin that treatment when it will be most effective and least invasive. If all turns out well it’s unlikely that your child will need to see an orthodontist again unless a problem presents itself.

Dr. Gregg Tartakow has been helping patients regain a beautiful smile through his work at the Orthodontic Center of Santa Monica in Santa Monica, CA. From children to the elderly, everyone wants a beautiful smile that they’re proud to show off, and Dr. Tartakow and his team have made creating those smiles a central part of their practice for years. Don’t let a misshapen smile be a source of embarrassment for you, pick up the phone and schedule a consultation today!