Monarch Orthodontic Services: Introduction
What is An Orthodontist?
“ Orthodontists are trained specialists moms and dads can trust
because only orthodontists have two or three years of specialized education beyond dental school. ”
Orthodontists are dental specialists in moving teeth and aligning jaws. They are uniquely qualified in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of orthodontic problems.
All Orthodontists in British Columbia must first obtain a license to practice dentistry in Canada. They must then successfully complete at least two years of advanced training in the specialized field of orthodontics from an accredited university. Only those who have successfully completed this formal education may call themselves “Orthodontists” or a “Specialist in Orthodontics”.
Orthodontists treat children, teenagers, and adults using a variety of “appliances,” including braces and retainers to move teeth or hold them in their new positions.
Because of orthodontists’ advanced education and clinical experience, they have the knowledge and skills necessary to recommend the best kind of appliance to meet every individual patient’s treatment goals.
Why is Orthodontic Treatment so important?
Malocclusion or "bad bite" is a technical term for crooked, crowded, or protruding teeth, that do not fit together properly. Many malocclusions are inherited. Some malocclusions are acquired and can be caused by thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, mouth breathing, premature loss of primary or permanent teeth, accidents or some medical problems.
Left untreated, these orthodontic problems can become worse. A bad bite can cause excess stress on the supporting bone and gum tissue as well as abnormal wear of tooth surfaces and difficulty chewing and speaking.
An Orthodontist uses specialized appliances to bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment and achieve facial balance.
The goal of orthodontic treatment is a good bite and a beautiful smile. Many people find a beautiful smile adds to self-esteem and self-confidence.
Treatment in children or teenagers who are still growing may yield results that may not be possible once the face and jaws have completed their growth.
Orthodontic treatment is often part of a comprehensive dental health care plan. With good care, including orthodontic treatment when necessary, teeth can last a lifetime.
Problems to Watch for in Growing Children
If your child has any of the following symptoms, have your general or pediatric dentist evaluate whether a referral to an Orthodontist and early diagnosis would be beneficial:
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Permanent teeth coming in (erupting) out of their normal position
- Problems with biting the cheek or roof of the mouth
- Speech difficulties
- Oral habits such as thumb or finger sucking habits
- Mouth Breathing
- Jaws that shift or make sounds
- Facial imbalance
- Inability to comfortably close lips
- Grinding or clenching of the teeth
“ All orthodontists are dentists first. Out of 100 dental school graduates,
only 6 go on to become orthodontists. ”
