What Orthodontics Means

In this blog, we’ll look at what orthodontics means. 

Riverside Orthodontics offers the best orthodontic care to Riverside, Greenwich, Stamford, Cos Cob, Byram, Port Chester, Rye, and the surrounding areas.

First, let’s look at what makes an orthodontist different from a dentist. In short, orthodontics refers to techniques to correct misaligned teeth and jaws (malocclusions or bad bites). Thus, your orthodontist is a smile specialist.

Orthodontics Vs. Dental Care

Did you know that all orthodontists have the training of dentists? All orthodontists are dental school graduates. So, they have the skills of a family dentist and understand how to maintain oral health.

Then, orthodontists further their education after dental school. Upon graduating, they go on to an orthodontics residency program for two to three years. During this time, they learn how properly move teeth and guide jaw and facial development (dentofacial orthopedics). 

After learning the complexities of aligning the jaws and straightening smiles, they become official smile specialists.

Dental Services Vs. Orthodontics 

Generally, dentists focus on oral health, screening for any problems, and providing services like:

  • Cleanings
  • Fillings
  • Extractions
  • Crowns
  • Veneers
  • Bonding

Sometimes, dentists focus on cosmetic dentistry and may treat minor orthodontic problems. However, for treatments like braces or Invisalign, an orthodontist has years of additional education, training, and experience.

Often, a dentist will refer patients to an orthodontist for cases that involve straightening the teeth or aligning the jaws. However, you may not need the recommendation to see an orthodontist.

Orthodontic Services

As the American Association of Orthodontists notes, orthodontists diagnose, prevent, intercept and treat dental and facial irregularities. 

These dental irregularities include many types of common malocclusions, such as:

  • Overbite
  • Underbite
  • Open Bite
  • Crossbite
  • Gap Teeth
  • Misplaced Midline
  • Crowded Teeth

To correct malocclusions, orthodontists provide custom treatments with braces, Invisalign,  orthodontic appliances, and sometimes surgery. Today, orthodontics is advanced with discreet, efficient treatments that get results much faster than in the past.

Perhaps, you prefer colorful options? Whether you prefer discreet or all the colors of the rainbow, we have you covered.

When to See an Orthodontist

From age seven to adults of all ages, an orthodontist is an expert on making sure smiles are beautiful and functional. Sometimes, kids younger than seven see an orthodontist. Generally, pediatric dentists are the first to see kid’s teeth when the first tooth appears.

By getting started by age seven, you can ensure kids get the best start for a healthy, beautiful smile. For adults, it’s not too late to begin, and today’s treatments are advanced and more convenient than ever.

Orthodontic services at Riverside Orthodontics are affordable, and you can enjoy many health benefits by correcting your smile. Plus, you will love showing off your new smile for life!

Choose the Best Orthodontist

When it comes to your smile, you deserve the most experienced provider with proven results and happy, smiling patients. At Riverside Orthodontics, Dr. Scott Kesselman (“Dr. K.”) has nearly three decades of experience, voted top dentist every year for 15 years.

We focus on each patient, offering convenient office hours, and top-quality treatment in a friendly, comfortable, high-tech office. Plus, custom treatment is affordable with in-house, interest-free plans designed for your budget. 

START NOW WITH A FREE CONSULTATION

We hope this answers “what orthodontics means” for you. By seeing an orthodontist, you can get a beautiful, healthy smile to show for life.

Today, it’s a great time to get started with orthodontics. Get the best affordable treatment and be ready to show your new smile as we return to gatherings with friends.

If you’re looking for the best award-winning orthodontist near Greenwich, CT, get started with your free consultation here.

 Call us anytime at (203) 864-6741. Or, email us online here.

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