What Do Orthodontic Services Include? | Bartlettortho

Confused about the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist? While both focus on oral care, an orthodontist specializes in treating misaligned teeth, can install dental devices such as braces and can improve their patient's bite. Just like a doctor can study further to become a surgeon, a dentist will specialize further to become an orthodontist.

In this blog, we’ll give you a run-down of the important orthodontic services of your Victoria orthodontist. 

Treat Misaligned Teeth

An orthodontist will help diagnose and treat any misaligned or crooked teeth as well as improve gaps in teeth and crowded teeth. Misaligned teeth are treated using several different methods. Braces can be used to correct the position of the teeth. Other dental appliances such as retainers will be used to realign teeth. Teeth may also need to be removed to improve overcrowding, or surgery may be needed to shorten or reshape the jaw. Each case is unique and requires individual attention from a professional orthodontist specialist. 

Bite Correction

Treating misaligned teeth includes correcting the patient's bite. The five different kinds of misaligned teeth that people suffer from are:

• Overbite

• Underbite

• Openbite

• Crossbite 

• Crowed Teeth

Once the teeth misalignment you are suffering from is identified, a treatment plan will be made to help correct it and produce a beautiful smile.

Diagnose And Treat A Misaligned Jaw

Misaligned teeth can cause dental and bite issues, and a misaligned jaw will do the same. Orthodontist services, therefore, also correct issues with the jaw. To help your jaw alignment, your orthodontist may recommend braces, headgear, a reverse pull face mask, an upper jaw expander or cosmetic dentistry. In some severe cases, your orthodontist will recommend jaw correction surgery to correct a severe overbite or underbite.   

Install Dental Appliances

One major service you won’t be able to receive from your dentist is installing dental appliances that will help straighten teeth and correct your bite. These appliances will also help with an overcrowded smile, gaps between your teeth or protruding teeth. Orthodontists are trained to install appliances such as braces, headgear, palatal expanders, positioners, retainers, separators, Invisalign and Herbst appliances.

If you need any of these orthodontic services in Victoria, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with us at Dr. Kirk Bartlett, Orthodontist. We are experts at providing individual care, helping to create beautiful, long-lasting smiles all over Victoria, Duncan and Sooke. Schedule your free 30 minute consultation right now!