Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics
The dental specialty that includes the diagnosis, prevention, interception and correction of malocclusion as well as neuromuscular and skeletal abnormalities of the developing or mature orofacial structures.
What is an Orthodontist?
Orthodontists are the dental specialists who correct dental and facial irregularities. An orthodontist is expert at moving teeth, helping jaws develop properly and working with the patient to help make sure the teeth stay in their new positions.
Your orthodontist is a specialist in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists must complete a 4 year graduate program at an accredited dental school and complete a further 2 - 3 year residency program in Orthodontics. This advanced education incorporates such diverse studies as genetics, embryology, human growth and development and biophysics. Only dentists with this advanced specialty education can present themselves as orthodontists.
Who can benefit from Orthodontics?
It was once felt that braces were just for kids; however, thousands of Canadians now undergo orthodontic treatment. In fact, more than one of every four patients is over the age of 21. Because the basic process is the same in adults as in children, orthodontic treatment can usually be successful at any age.
When Should My Child First See an Orthodontist?
The AAO recommends that every child should see an orthodontist no later than at age 7. In some cases, this could be as young as 2 or 3. Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct when detected early rather than waiting until jaw growth has slowed. Early treatment may also alleviate the need for surgery or other more serious corrections later in life.
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