Orthodontics and Orthodontists

Orthodontics involves moving the teeth and underlying roots to create a better support system for the crown of the tooth. Orthodontic treatment also rejuvenates facial appearance by reshaping the jaw, neck and lips when combined with maxillofacial surgical procedures.

Regardless of age, orthodontics can protect your bite, maximize the effectiveness of your teeth in performing their functions and create a well-aligned smile. Teeth that are well-aligned make oral hygiene easier to maintain, thereby helping to ensure better oral health.

Orthodontic treatments traditionally have been aimed at pre-teens and teens having problems with their bite (malocclusion). Today, orthodontics (i.e., dental braces, retainers, Invisalign, etc.) also can treat adults' malocclusion. And, unlike in decades past, today's orthodontic treatments provide benefits of greater esthetic appeal, increased comfort and reduced treatment time.

For example, orthodontics can be provided using colored or clear braces, braces that are placed on the backside (lingual side) of teeth, and using clear and nearly invisible aligners (like Invisalign and ClearCorrect).

Dentists who concentrate solely on the practice of orthodontics are called orthodontists. Prior to becoming a certified practitioner of orthodontics, dentists are normally required to complete an additional two to three years of post-dental school education.

What's Involved with Orthodontic Treatment?

Patients requiring orthodontics are referred to an orthodontist by their general dentist. During the initial appointment, an orthodontist reviews the patient's dental records, performs a clinical assessment, takes panoramic and cephalometric X-rays of the mouth and head, and creates accurate impressions for models of the teeth and bite. After completion of the evaluation, a treatment plan is developed that best fits the needs of the patient. 

During the second appointment, the orthodontist reviews the treatment plan that was established and estimates the number of months that will be required for the active phase of treatment. The standard treatment phase is two years. After treatment, wearing a retainer may be required for a period of time.

The extent of orthodontic treatment is based on factors such as age, extensiveness of the procedure and how strictly the treatment plan is followed. Because the bones supporting younger patients' teeth are more pliable than those supporting older teeth, younger patients may respond more rapidly to treatment than older patients. However, adult patients have a tendency to follow treatment instructions as directed more consistently than younger patients (i.e., pre-teens). In cases where oral surgery and recovery are required before or during orthodontic treatment, the treatment time is obviously longer.

Orthodontic treatment ranges in price from $3,000 to $6,000. The actual cost for treatment is based on factors such as the type of treatment (meaning, what type of braces and brackets are used), the duration of treatment, the orthodontist, the location, dental insurance and any other restorative work that is needed prior to or throughout treatment.