An orthodontist is a professional who is trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent the orthodontic correction of severe malocclusion. They offer a whole range of treatment alternatives to correct crooked teeth, straighten out crooked teeth and realign the jaws properly. This includes procedures such as bite re-contouring, bonding, gum lifting and various appliances designed to help with the overall appearance of one’s smile. Loveland orthodontists use a variety of tools including braces, retainers, endplates, veneers, mandibular advancement device (MADD), bite shields, splints, combs, retainers and more. They also work closely with patients on diet, nutrition, and other aspects of health care.
Braces are usually worn by children during the early years of their lives. These braces can be made from either metal or clear plastic, but most orthodontist recommend that braces be worn only by younger children because they are not yet ready for solid orthodontics. The orthodontist will take an impression of the child’s mouth by using light technology so that the orthodontist will know what type of braces to order. During the initial visit, the orthodontist will explain everything about the braces and give the patient instructions as to how the braces should be worn.
Braces are normally worn for two years. At this time, the orthodontist will adjust the brackets as needed to ensure that the teeth are correctly aligned. Braces can be adjusted up or down, but generally the orthodontist will choose whether to put braces on in the front, back or both. Once the orthodontist has diagnosed the problem, he/she will give the patient instructions on how to properly care for the braces so that they will last the longest amount of time.
Braces are usually made with the wires or brackets placed in your mouth around the teeth. The orthodontist will use these wires to retie the jaw so that the teeth do not move out of alignment when the mouth is closed. If the braces are not properly adjusted, the braces may not last very long, which may result in them having to be taken off early.
When a tooth moves out of alignment, it is called an extrusion. Some causes of extrusions are overbite or underbite. An orthodontist can fix an extrusion by putting a rubber band around the bracket or wire. Once the archwire or bracket is fixed, the rubber band will tighten around the bracket or wire, creating an arch to close the gap.
An orthodontist such as Comfort Dental Orthodontics in Loveland uses all of these methods to help an orthodontist reshape the teeth and the gums. Orthodontists have a high level of education and training to perform all of these procedures. If you are interested in becoming an orthodontist, you can check with your local dentist to see if they specialize in orthodontics. Most dentists, including Dr. Brian Diemer of Comfort Dental Orthodontics Loveland, have orthodontic school as part of their routine care for their patients.