Frequently Asked Questions
Are braces done by an orthodontist?
Yes, braces are typically done by orthodontists. Orthodontists are dental specialists who complete additional training beyond dental school to focus specifically on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities. They have the expertise to properly align teeth and jaws using braces and other orthodontic appliances.
Are all orthodontists doctors?
Yes, all orthodontists are doctors. Orthodontists complete dental school to become dentists, then undergo additional specialized training in orthodontics. They earn either a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree, followed by a postgraduate orthodontic residency program, qualifying them as orthodontic specialists.
What is an associate orthodontist?
An associate orthodontist is a licensed dental specialist who works in an established orthodontic practice but does not own it. They collaborate with the practice owner to provide orthodontic treatments, diagnose issues, create treatment plans, and manage patient care. Associate orthodontists often gain experience before starting their own practice.
Are orthodontists open on weekends?
Most orthodontic practices are not typically open on weekends, operating primarily Monday through Friday. However, some offices may offer limited Saturday hours or emergency appointments for urgent cases. Patients should check with their specific orthodontist's office for exact hours and weekend availability.
Are all orthodontists the same?
No, orthodontists are not all the same. While they share similar education and training, orthodontists differ in experience, specializations, treatment approaches, and technology used. Some may focus on specific age groups or complex cases, while others offer various treatment options like traditional braces, clear aligners, or lingual braces.
Are all orthodontists dentists?
Yes, all orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists. Orthodontists complete additional specialized training after dental school to focus on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities, particularly in tooth and jaw alignment. This extra education qualifies them as specialists in orthodontic care.
Are orthodontists open on Saturdays?
Many orthodontists offer limited Saturday hours to accommodate patients with busy weekday schedules. However, availability varies by practice. It's best to check with your specific orthodontist or potential providers in your area to determine their Saturday hours and appointment options.
Are orthodontist doctors?
Orthodontists are dental specialists who have completed additional education and training beyond dental school. They are licensed doctors who focus on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities, particularly misaligned teeth and jaws. While not medical doctors, orthodontists hold professional doctoral degrees in dentistry.
What services do orthodontists provide?
Orthodontists provide specialized dental services focused on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. Their primary treatments include braces, clear aligners, retainers, and other appliances to straighten teeth and improve bite function. They also offer consultations, x-rays, and ongoing care to monitor progress and ensure optimal results for patients seeking straighter smiles.
How do orthodontists straighten teeth?
Orthodontists straighten teeth using various appliances and techniques. They typically use braces or clear aligners to gradually shift teeth into proper alignment. This process applies gentle pressure over time to reposition teeth and adjust the bite. Regular adjustments and monitoring allow orthodontists to guide teeth movement for improved oral function and aesthetics.
Can orthodontists treat TMJ disorders?
Orthodontists can often treat TMJ disorders through various approaches. These may include orthodontic adjustments, custom-fitted splints, or other therapies to realign the jaw and relieve symptoms. However, severe cases may require collaboration with other specialists for comprehensive treatment.
Do orthodontists offer teeth whitening?
Some orthodontists offer teeth whitening services, but it's not universally provided. While orthodontists primarily focus on straightening teeth and correcting bite issues, many incorporate whitening treatments as an additional cosmetic service. It's best to check with your specific orthodontist to see if they provide teeth whitening options.
What age should orthodontic treatment start?
Orthodontic treatment typically begins between ages 9-14, when most permanent teeth have emerged. However, some issues may require earlier intervention. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an initial evaluation by age 7 to identify potential problems and determine the optimal time to start treatment for each individual child.
How long does orthodontic treatment last?
Orthodontic treatment typically lasts 18-24 months, though exact duration varies based on individual needs. Factors like case complexity, treatment type (braces vs. Invisalign), and patient compliance affect length. Some patients may complete treatment in as little as 6 months, while others require up to 3 years for optimal results.
Do orthodontists handle dental emergencies?
Orthodontists can handle certain orthodontic emergencies, such as broken braces or wires, but typically don't manage general dental emergencies. For urgent orthodontic issues, patients should contact their orthodontist. However, for severe pain, bleeding, or trauma, it's best to see a general dentist or visit an emergency room.
Can orthodontists fix overbites and underbites?
Orthodontists can effectively correct overbites and underbites through various treatment methods. These may include braces, clear aligners, or in more severe cases, jaw surgery. The specific approach depends on the individual's age, the severity of the misalignment, and other factors determined during a comprehensive orthodontic evaluation.
Are consultations with orthodontists free?
Many orthodontic practices offer free initial consultations to new patients. During these complimentary appointments, orthodontists typically examine the patient's teeth, discuss treatment options, and provide a cost estimate. However, policies can vary between practices, so it's best to confirm with the specific orthodontist's office beforehand.
How often should I visit an orthodontist?
Regular orthodontic check-ups are recommended every 4-8 weeks during active treatment. For those not in braces or aligners, annual visits are advisable to monitor oral health and address potential issues early. Children should have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7 to detect and prevent future problems.
Do orthodontists perform oral surgery?
Orthodontists typically do not perform oral surgery. While they specialize in correcting teeth and jaw alignment, complex surgical procedures are usually handled by oral surgeons. However, orthodontists may collaborate with oral surgeons for comprehensive treatment plans involving both orthodontic care and surgical interventions.
Can orthodontists correct jaw misalignments?
Yes, orthodontists can correct jaw misalignments. They use various treatments like braces, headgear, and orthognathic surgery to address issues such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites. These procedures can improve both facial aesthetics and oral function, enhancing a patient's overall dental health and confidence.
Are orthodontic treatments covered by insurance?
Orthodontic treatments may be partially covered by dental insurance plans, but coverage varies widely. Many policies have lifetime maximums for orthodontics and age restrictions. Patients should check with their insurance provider to understand specific benefits, limitations, and out-of-pocket costs before beginning treatment.
Do orthodontists provide retainers after braces?
Orthodontists typically provide retainers after braces treatment to maintain the new alignment of teeth. These custom-made devices help prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Patients usually wear retainers full-time initially, then transition to nighttime use as directed by their orthodontist for long-term results.
How do orthodontists install braces?
Orthodontists install braces through a multi-step process. First, they clean and dry the teeth. Then, they apply bonding glue to attach brackets to each tooth. Next, they insert the archwire through the brackets and secure it with elastic bands. Finally, they trim excess wire and provide care instructions to the patient.
Can orthodontists treat sleep apnea?
Orthodontists can play a role in treating sleep apnea, particularly obstructive sleep apnea. They may recommend oral appliances that reposition the jaw and tongue to keep airways open during sleep. However, diagnosis and comprehensive treatment often involve collaboration with sleep specialists and other medical professionals.
Do orthodontists offer Invisalign treatment?
Yes, many orthodontists offer Invisalign treatment as an alternative to traditional braces. Invisalign uses clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth. Orthodontists are specially trained to provide this treatment option, which can be effective for various orthodontic issues in both teens and adults.
Are orthodontists qualified for dental implants?
Orthodontists typically do not perform dental implant procedures. While orthodontists are highly trained dental specialists, their focus is on correcting teeth alignment and jaw issues. Dental implants fall under the expertise of oral surgeons or periodontists, who have specialized training in implant placement and restoration.
Can orthodontists remove wisdom teeth?
Orthodontists typically do not remove wisdom teeth. While they specialize in straightening teeth and correcting jaw alignment, wisdom tooth extraction usually falls under the expertise of oral surgeons or general dentists. However, orthodontists may recommend wisdom tooth removal if it impacts orthodontic treatment plans or overall oral health.
Do orthodontists treat children and adults?
Orthodontists treat patients of all ages, including both children and adults. They provide specialized care for misaligned teeth and jaws, offering treatments like braces and clear aligners. While many patients start orthodontic treatment in childhood or adolescence, an increasing number of adults now seek orthodontic care to improve their smiles and oral health.
How do orthodontists correct crossbites?
Orthodontists correct crossbites using several techniques, including palatal expanders to widen the upper jaw, braces to align teeth, and sometimes surgery for severe cases. They may also use bite plates or other appliances to shift jaw position. Treatment plans are customized based on the specific type and severity of the crossbite.
Can orthodontists help with snoring problems?
Orthodontists can help with snoring problems by addressing underlying dental and jaw issues. They may recommend treatments like mandibular advancement devices or palatal expansion to improve airway function. However, for severe cases, collaboration with sleep specialists or ENT doctors may be necessary for comprehensive snoring solutions.
