The chances are that you already know that an orthodontist specializes in braces. But after that, what else do they do? Orthodontists are experts in various matters concerning oral health, with the following guide listing some services you can expect to get on your next appointment.
Periodontal Services
Periodontal services refer to oral services related to the gums and bones in your mouth. When you need gum surgery, an orthodontist can help with that, treating any underlying gum and bone problems. In addition to this, orthodontists also offer preventative care in these areas, ensuring that you maintain oral health from an early stage.
TMJ Treatments
TMJ services comprise temporal-mandibular joint treatment. The TMJ joint is responsible for limiting jawbone movement, with misalignment leading to problems such as jaw pains. In addition to this, patients whose TMJ joint irregularities are not fixed may experience chronic pain to the face and neck, with some instances resulting in headaches. To remedy this, an orthodontist will offer you a TMJ treatment that involves the fixation of mouthpieces to help with any clenching motions.
Braces Services
This is the most common service that most people link to orthodontists. When your teeth are not aligned properly, an orthodontist will fix braces, which will provide the right pressure for proper positioning to occur. This is often through a minor surgery which helps prevent any jaw-related complications while ensuring your biting and chewing improves.
Fixation of braces requires minor surgery, another area of expertise for orthodontists. Along with this, orthodontists also perform surgical realignment of braces when they need adjustments. This allows for proper repositioning, with the end goal being to correct jaw irregularities.
Types of Braces That Orthodontists Provide
Apart from the regular metal braces, orthodontists are trained to fix other types of braces, namely:
Ceramic Braces
These are the closest to metal braces, with the only difference being tooth-colored. In some instances, they can often seem invisible. Caution is, however, needed when consuming certain foods and drinks as ceramic braces can stain easily.
Lingual Braces
Where metal braces are attached to the teeth’ front side, lingual braces are attached to the backside of the teeth, making them well-hidden. These require a bit more time to get used to, with an expert’s services such as an orthodontist being crucial for attaching them.
Invisalign
Invisalign are custom clear plastic braces that allow for teeth movement. An orthodontist can recommend these when you go through a simple alignment procedure or need an alignment for a complicated issue. Unlike other braces, the Invisalign can be removed when eating, brushing, or even flossing.
Retainers
Retainers are often fixed after the straightening process that requires braces. Depending on the issue at hand, retainers can be worn on the top or bottom jaw to help keep your teeth in place.
Treating Lip and Cheek Protrusions
In some instances, a patient’s lips and cheeks may be protruded, causing too much pressure on the teeth. When this happens, an orthodontist will provide lip and cheek bumpers, preventing the teeth’ contact. It minimizes any pain and discomfort that may have otherwise become unbearable.
Oral Surgery
The last service is oral surgery which refers to the treatment of root canals, biopsies, and oral cancers. Click here https://www.coortho.com/ to get orthodontists who go for a collective range of oral needs.