A well-aligned bite not only looks good, but it also helps ensure your teeth are healthy. Orthodontics can treat misaligned teeth and jaws to help reduce your risk for dental issues, including chewing problems, TMJ, gum disease and more.

To become an orthodontist, a general dentist must complete a two- to three-year residency program focused exclusively on orthodontic care after graduating from dental school. During this training, orthodontists focus on aligning the growth of teeth, facial bones and soft tissue. In the United States, orthodontists can choose to be board-certified by the American Board of Orthodontics, a distinction that requires years of rigorous study and supervised orthodontic practice and a thorough knowledge of growth and development (also known as dentofacial orthopedics).

Why You Might Need an Orthodontist for Your Smile

After completing their residency, orthodontists have the skills and equipment to diagnose and treat a wide variety of orthodontic conditions. Using X-rays, study models, and panoramic X-rays, orthodontists can determine whether your teeth and jaws are growing in correctly. They can also identify problems that may arise in the future, such as a narrow palate or underbite.

Once your treatment plan is developed, orthodontists use a combination of dental braces and other appliances to help realign your teeth and jaw. These appliances include wires, bands, and archwires to encourage your teeth into their correct positions. Braces can be made from metal, ceramics or clear (“invisible”) materials. For severe cases of overbites or underbites, orthodontists can even design headgear and facemasks that fit around your head to further encourage your jaws into proper alignment.