What is an Orthodontist
An orthodontist is a dentist who specializes in the treatment of crooked or misaligned teeth. Contrary to popular belief, this branch of dentistry is not merely about the cosmetic appearance of patient smiles, but also about their oral health. Patients who visit an orthodontist for treatment often find it easier to brush their teeth and floss. This significantly reduces the risk of developing tooth decay or periodontal disease. Some of the conditions an orthodontist treats include:
Overbite, underbite, openbite and crossbite
Gaps and spacing between the teeth
Overcrowded teeth
Do I need to visit Dr. Cochran?
You only need to visit us if one or more of your teeth are improperly aligned. Keep in mind that it is never too late to see an orthodontist – whether child or adult. Dr. Cochran DDS MS is happy to see you any time.
What should I expect during an orthodontic visit?
Our orthodontist will conduct an exam and use diagnostic imaging technology to determine the health of your tooth structure and whether orthodontic treatment is right for you. Orthodontic treatments usually involve the use of appliances like braces, space maintainers or jaw repositioning devices.
Will I need to follow any special instructions after meeting with Dr. Cochran?
Depending on the results of your visit, you may be asked to return for additional exams or follow-up visits in the future.
Type of Appliances
Orthodontists primarily treat patients who need help correcting certain maxillofacial problems, such as misaligned teeth, malocclusion, or too much space between the teeth. Treating these conditions requires the assistance of orthodontic appliances, of which there are many. Orthodontic appliances come in many variations – some being fixed and some being removable. They serve various purposes, from active treatment to maintenance. Some of the most commonly used orthodontic appliances include:
- Braces/Aligners – either fixed or removable; used to gently reposition the teeth into better alignment
- Retainers – used to prevent teeth from shifting to a prior position
- Splints – used to reposition the jaw, especially in TMJ patients
- Space maintainers – either fixed or removable; used to hold the space where a primary tooth once was until a permanent one can erupt
- Bumpers – used to maintain space and relieve pressure between the teeth and the lips or cheeks.
- Tap 3
You or your child will only need an appliance if Dr. Cochran recommends one based on a diagnostic evaluation. Schedule a consultation with our office to find out more about dental appliances and whether they can help you achieve your cosmetic and health goals.
If our orthodontist determines that you are a candidate for an oral appliance, you’ll be brought in for a custom fitting. Fixed appliances, such as braces, are fitted in the office. Others, such as retainers, are fabricated in a dental lab after Dr. Cochran takes an impression of your mouth.
Yes, and you will receive those instructions before leaving your orthodontist’s office. Removable appliances must be worn according to your orthodontist’s instructions and also properly cleaned and stored when not in use. Fixed appliances require dietary changes to protect them from becoming a damaged and prolonging treatment.
Types of Braces
Dental braces have come a long way since they were invented in the 1800’s. Today, Americans and residents of are privy to a bevy of tooth-straightening options, each of which offers different benefits. Currently, the most popular types of braces used in include:
- Metal Braces – These are traditional braces most often seen in children and teenagers. Metal braces are the most affordable and use a system of brackets and wires to move the teeth over time.
- Invisalign – This modern orthodontic treatment is highly popular among adults who want to straighten their smiles discreetly. Invisalign orthodontics is a system of customized plastic trays that are worn day and night, with the exception of when a patient is eating, brushing and flossing. The invisible trays are switched out every couple of weeks until a desirable result is achieved.
- Lingual Braces – These metal braces attach to the backs of the teeth and are not visible to other people.
- Ceramic Braces – These braces work like traditional metal braces, except that the brackets bonded to the teeth are made of ceramic. This helps prevent staining, and they can also be color-matched to blend with the teeth.