Everything You Need to Know About Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment is a specialized form of dentistry that focuses on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. It is a common procedure that can help improve the appearance of your smile, as well as your overall dental health. Orthodontists use braces, retainers, and other orthodontic appliances to help realign teeth and jaws. Invisalign aligners are also becoming increasingly popular for those who want a more discreet option. If you are considering orthodontic treatment, it is important to understand the process and the costs associated with it.

Orthodontists typically charge between $159 and $208 per month for braces, and up to $48,800 for Invisalign aligners. However, there are several payment plans available, including CareCredit, Smiles Change Lives, and dental insurance plans or dental savings plans.

What Does an Orthodontist Do?

An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed additional post-secondary education and residency in order to specialize in orthodontics. They are responsible for diagnosing and treating dental malocclusions (crooked teeth or misaligned jaws). Orthodontists use braces, wire arches, and other orthodontic appliances to realign teeth and jaws.

Invisalign aligners are also becoming increasingly popular for those who want a more discreet option.

What Is Involved in Orthodontic Treatment?

The first step in orthodontic treatment is to visit an orthodontist for an initial consultation. During this appointment, the orthodontist will take x-rays, photographs, and a medical history. They will then create a personalized treatment plan based on the severity of the malocclusion and the duration of treatment needed. The orthodontist will also discuss financing plans, insurance options, and payment plans with you. Once the treatment plan has been established, the orthodontist will begin the process of realigning your teeth or jaw.

This may involve using braces or Invisalign aligners. The orthodontist may also recommend other treatments such as myofunctional therapy or prefinish devices.

Tips for Successful Orthodontic Treatment

In order to ensure successful orthodontic treatment, it is important to follow your orthodontist's instructions carefully. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your treatment:

• Go Soft: When wearing braces or Invisalign aligners, it is important to eat soft foods and avoid hard or sticky foods that can damage the braces or aligners.
• Floss Regularly: Flossing regularly is essential for removing plaque from between your teeth and around your braces or aligners.
• Use Orthodontic Wax: If you experience any discomfort from your braces or aligners, use orthodontic wax to reduce irritation.
• Plan Ahead: Make sure to plan ahead when it comes to scheduling appointments with your orthodontist.
• Follow Instructions: Make sure to follow all instructions given by your orthodontist for wearing braces or aligners.
• Be Patient: Orthodontic treatment can take several months or even years depending on the severity of the malocclusion. It is important to be patient and follow your orthodontist's instructions.

Job Opportunities in Orthodontics

Orthodontists must complete a doctorate degree in dentistry before they can practice as an orthodontist.

After completing their undergraduate education and dental school, they must complete a residency program in order to obtain their license. Once they have obtained their license, they can begin practicing as an orthodontist. Orthodontists typically work in private practices or in hospitals. They may also work in research facilities or teach at universities.

The job outlook for orthodontists is very positive, with salaries ranging from $200,000 to $208,000 per year depending on experience and location.

Conclusion

Orthodontic treatment can be a long and expensive process, but it can also be very rewarding. It can help improve your smile and overall dental health. If you are considering orthodontic treatment, make sure to do your research and find an experienced orthodontist who can provide you with the best care possible.

Be sure to follow all instructions given by your orthodontist for wearing braces or aligners, brush and floss regularly, go soft on foods that can damage braces or aligners, use orthodontic wax if needed, plan ahead when scheduling appointments with your orthodontist, and be patient throughout the process. Orthodontists have many job opportunities available to them with salaries ranging from $200,000 to $208,000 per year depending on experience and location. If you are interested in becoming an orthodontist yourself, make sure you have completed all of the necessary post-secondary education and residency requirements before applying for a license. Overall, orthodontic treatment can be a long but rewarding process that can help improve both your smile and overall dental health. Be sure to do your research before beginning any type of treatment so that you can make an informed decision about what is best for you.