Orthodontists specialize in diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. They treat crowded teeth, bite problems, spacing issues, and jaw misalignment using braces, clear aligners, retainers, and other appliances. Unlike a general dentist, an orthodontist completes additional years of specialized training focused entirely on tooth movement and jaw alignment.
If you are unsure whether you need orthodontic treatment or what the process involves, this guide covers everything you need to know. At Estrella Mountain Dentistry in Goodyear AZ, our team is ready to answer your questions and guide you toward the right treatment.
Understanding the Role of an Orthodontist
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on diagnosing and correcting the alignment of teeth and jaws. Their role goes beyond general dental care and is centered on improving bite function and overall dental structure. They use treatments like braces, clear aligners, and other appliances to guide teeth into proper position and ensure the jaws work together correctly.
Orthodontist vs. Dentist
A dentist and an orthodontist are not the same, even though both care for your teeth. A dentist handles routine oral care and is usually your first point of contact for dental health. If alignment issues, crowding, or bite problems are detected, they refer you to an orthodontist.
An orthodontist does not typically perform fillings, extractions, or cleanings. Their focus is entirely on moving teeth into proper alignment and improving how the upper and lower jaws function together.
Education and Specialized Training
All orthodontists first complete dental school, then undergo 2 to 3 years of specialized orthodontic training. This advanced education focuses on tooth movement, facial growth, and treatment planning with braces and aligners, setting them apart from general dentists.
What Does an Orthodontist Do on a Daily Basis?
An orthodontist’s day goes beyond placing braces. First, they evaluate your teeth, jaw, and bite using an exam, X-rays, and scans, then build a custom plan with the right appliances and timeline. Once treatment starts, patients return every four to eight weeks so the orthodontist can check tooth movement and adjust the braces or aligners. After treatment ends, they manage the retention phase, using retainers to hold teeth in place so they do not shift back.
Common Problems an Orthodontist Treats
Orthodontists treat a range of conditions that affect both the appearance and function of the teeth and jaw.
Crooked and Crowded Teeth
When there isn’t enough space in the jaw, teeth can become crowded, overlapping, or twisted. This makes cleaning difficult and raises the risk of cavities and gum disease. Orthodontic treatment helps create space and properly align the teeth.
Bite Problems
A bite problem occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not align properly. It includes overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite. These issues can affect chewing, speech, and jaw comfort, and may cause uneven tooth wear and jaw pain if untreated.
Spacing and Gap Issues
Gaps between teeth can occur due to missing teeth, smaller-than-average teeth, or habits like thumb sucking. Orthodontic treatment helps close these spaces and evenly distribute spacing across the dental arch.
Jaw Alignment Concerns
Some alignment issues come from the jaw rather than the teeth. When the upper and lower jaws don’t align properly, it can lead to difficulty chewing, jaw pain, headaches, and speech problems. In severe cases, orthodontists may work with oral surgeons for surgical correction.
Orthodontic Treatments and Appliances
Orthodontists use a range of tools depending on the problem being treated and the patient’s age and preferences.
Traditional Braces
Traditional metal braces are one of the most effective orthodontic treatments. They use metal brackets and wires to gradually move teeth into alignment and are suitable for all ages, especially complex cases. Ceramic braces work in the same way but use tooth-colored brackets, making them less noticeable.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are a popular alternative to braces for adults and older teens. They use a series of removable, custom-made plastic trays that gradually move teeth into position, with each set worn for one to two weeks before switching to the next. They are nearly invisible and can be removed for eating and cleaning. Clear aligners are effective for mild to moderate cases but may not suit severe alignment issues.
Retainers
A retainer keeps teeth in their corrected position after braces or aligner treatment. It can be removable or fixed behind the teeth. Wearing it as directed is essential to prevent teeth from shifting back over time.
Palatal Expanders and Other Appliances
A palatal expander is used to widen a narrow upper jaw, especially in children and teens while the jaw is still developing. Other appliances include space maintainers, which keep space open after early loss of baby teeth, and headgear, which helps guide jaw growth in certain cases.
Signs You Should See an Orthodontist
Watch for a few common signs that point to orthodontic care: crowded or crooked teeth, noticeable gaps, teeth that stick out, or a bite that does not meet evenly. Trouble chewing, jaw pain, clicking, or teeth that wear down unevenly are also worth getting checked.
For children, the American Association of Orthodontists suggests a first check-up by around age 7, since catching issues early makes them easier to fix. Adults should not wait either. If your bite or smile bothers you, an evaluation is the simplest way to learn your options.
What Happens During Your First Orthodontic Appointment?
The first appointment is an assessment, not the start of treatment. It gives the orthodontist the information needed to plan care. The orthodontist starts with a full exam of the teeth, bite, and jaw. Digital X-rays, photos, and 3D scans are taken to assess alignment. These records help create an accurate treatment plan.
After the examination, the orthodontist explains the findings and discusses treatment options. This includes the recommended appliance, the treatment process, and the expected results. Based on the evaluation, the orthodontist creates a personalized treatment plan for the patient. It outlines the approach, estimated treatment time, and each step from start to retention.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment addresses more than cosmetic concerns. It has measurable effects on oral health and daily function.
Improved Oral Health
Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss properly. Misaligned teeth create tight spaces where plaque can build up and is harder to clean. Correcting alignment helps reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Better Function and Bite Alignment
A properly aligned bite distributes chewing forces evenly across all teeth. When the bite is misaligned, some teeth take more pressure than others, leading to wear and sensitivity. Correcting the bite helps prevent this uneven stress.
Enhanced Appearance and Confidence
A straighter smile can improve how people feel about their appearance. For many patients, greater confidence in social and professional settings is a key benefit of orthodontic treatment.
Long-Term Dental Health Benefits
Orthodontic treatment helps reduce the need for complex dental work later. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean and wear more evenly, supporting better long-term oral health.
Modern Technology Used by Orthodontists
Digital intraoral scanners create a detailed 3D model of the teeth without traditional impression materials. 3D cone beam imaging provides a full view of the teeth, roots, jaw, and surrounding structures. These technologies give orthodontists more detailed information than conventional X-rays alone.
Modern software allows orthodontists to digitally plan tooth movement before treatment begins. It also lets them show patients a simulation of expected results and design each stage with greater precision. Clear aligner systems use digital scanning and computer-aided design to create custom-fit trays. Advances in technology now allow aligners to treat cases that once required traditional braces.
How Much Does Orthodontic Treatment Cost?
Cost depends on the type of treatment and how complex your case is. Traditional metal braces and clear aligners like Invisalign tend to fall in a similar range, while minor cases cost less and severe bite or jaw problems cost more because they take longer and need more visits. The good news is that payment is flexible. Many offices offer monthly plans, you can often use an HSA or FSA, and many dental insurance plans cover part of orthodontic care.
How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment Take?
Treatment time mainly depends on the severity of misalignment. Minor spacing issues may take six to twelve months, while complex bite or jaw problems can take two to three years . Patient compliance also matters, as wearing aligners for the recommended twenty-two hours a day directly impacts how quickly teeth move.
Teeth naturally tend to shift back after treatment. Retainers prevent this movement and maintain results. Not wearing them as directed can lead to relapse and may require further treatment. Most orthodontists recommend long-term retainer use, often during sleep, to preserve alignment
Looking for an orthodontist in Goodyear AZ?
At Estrella Mountain Dentistry, we provide orthodontic care for patients of all ages across Goodyear, Gilbert, AZ. Whether you are dealing with crowded teeth, bite problems, or spacing issues, our team evaluates your condition and builds a treatment plan around your specific needs. Contact us today, your orthodontic consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, properly aligned smile. From traditional braces to clear aligners and retainers, we offer the full range of orthodontic treatments under one roof.
Conclusion
An orthodontist specializes in correcting the alignment of teeth and jaws through carefully planned treatment. Whether the issue is crowding, bite problems, or jaw misalignment, orthodontic care addresses both functional and structural concerns.
Treatment is available for patients of all ages, and modern technology has made it more precise and comfortable than ever. If you or your child shows signs of alignment issues, an orthodontic evaluation is the right first step.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an orthodontist do besides braces?
Orthodontists provide treatments such as clear aligners, retainers, palatal expanders, and other appliances. They also diagnose jaw issues and collaborate with oral surgeons when surgery is required.
Can adults get orthodontic treatment?
Adults can get orthodontic treatment at any age. Clear aligners are popular for their discreet, removable design. Treatment may take slightly longer in adults, but results are still equally effective.
How is an orthodontist different from a dentist?
A dentist provides general oral care such as cleanings, fillings, and extractions. An orthodontist is a specialist with additional training in diagnosing and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. Orthodontists typically do not perform routine dental care.
How long does orthodontic treatment usually take?
Treatment usually takes twelve months and three years , depending on case severity and method. Minor corrections may take under a year, while complex jaw cases can take longer.
Do clear aligners work as well as braces?
Clear aligners work well for mild to moderate cases and have improved with modern technology. However, severe or complex issues may require traditional braces. Your orthodontist will recommend the best option based on your needs.
