Should everyone see an orthodontist?
You may be wondering, “who really needs to see an orthodontist – is it truly everyone, or just people with crooked teeth?” While it varies from person to person, there are definite benefits to visiting an orthodontist for most of us. Whether you’re considering braces for your children or thinking about enhancing the look of your own smile, at Hutta & Price Orthodontics, we’re here to help you understand why seeing an orthodontist might be the next best step.
How are orthodontists different from dentists?
The first thing to understand is that the primary difference between an orthodontist and a dentist is the overall focus of their treatments. Dentists provide general oral health care, which includes cleanings, fillings, and preventative care. After completing four years of dental school, an orthodontist will go on to complete a two-to-three year residency as well as continuing education. Here at Hutta & Price, we specialize in teeth straightening treatments like braces and aligners as well as appliances that influence facial growth and a healthy bite, like palatal expanders. Orthodontists work with patients to address a variety of concerns, like bite problems, crowded teeth, gaps, jaw pain, and more complicated issues that require a specialized approach.
When is the best time to visit Hutta & Price?
While orthodontics is often associated with children and adolescents getting braces for the first time, the truth is that people of all ages can benefit from seeing an orthodontist. Here at Hutta & Price Orthodontics, our team is well-versed in treating patients of all ages. When scheduling a consultation, here are some important factors to take into consideration:
Children and early intervention
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a visit to a trusted orthodontist at the age of seven. Early intervention can help detect potential problems and allow the orthodontist to monitor the development of the teeth and jaw as the child grows.
We understand that younger patients may be nervous to begin orthodontic treatment, but our team is eager to ensure your kids are in the best hands and as comfortable as possible throughout treatment. This is why we offer treatments such as Damon Braces, which are designed specifically for comfort and adaptability between appointments.
Teeth straightening for teens
For teens experiencing crooked teeth or bad bites, orthodontics can be even more important. During the teenage years, your teeth are still developing, which makes this an ideal time for braces or other forms of treatment. Our overarching goal is to address these problems while patients are still young and growing, preventing future complex complications.
Care for adults
While orthodontics is often associated with kids and teens, the truth is that numerous adult patients benefit from our services here at Hutta & Price Orthodontics as well. Whether you’re dealing with bite or alignment issues for the first time, or you previously had braces but your teeth have since shifted, orthodontic treatment is effective at any age! If you’re hoping for a more discreet and convenient treatment option, we offer clear aligners like Invisalign. We also offer a Smile Touch-Up, which is designed to correct minor alignment issues, more often than not in adult patients.
Why should you see an orthodontist?
Experiencing crooked teeth, bite problems, or are you just interested in enhancing the appearance of your smile? Seeing an orthodontist might just change the game for your self-confidence and oral health. Here are just a few reasons:
Common orthodontic problems that need treatment
- Crowded teeth: When your mouth doesn’t have enough space for your teeth to all fit together properly, it may cause them to crowd. Orthodontic treatment will help gradually move your teeth back into their proper position, making daily functions like chewing and speaking easier, as well as creating a better-looking smile overall.
- Overbite/underbite: An overbite occurs when the upper teeth extend too far over the lower teeth, while an underbite happens when the lower teeth protrude beyond the upper teeth. Both issues can cause difficulty eating and speaking, and they may lead to jaw pain or tooth wear. Orthodontic treatment can help realign the bite for proper function.
- Gaps between teeth: Some people may have spaces between their teeth that may affect their smile or overall bite. Undergoing the correct orthodontic treatment will close these gaps over time, improving your mouth’s function and your smile’s appearance.
- Crossbite: Patients suffering from a crossbite will have upper teeth positioning incorrectly within their lower teeth. Orthodontic treatment can treat this misalignment and prevent further complications that could make everyday functions especially difficult.
Schedule your free consultation today
If you’re ready to take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile, schedule a consultation at Hutta & Price Orthodontics today by calling (614) 855-8800. Our highly-experienced team has treated the Columbus community for decades, and is here to guide you through every step of the process. Whatever the treatment, and whatever your age, we’re here to help you get started on your orthodontic journey at Hutta & Price!