Orthodontist

Overview

An orthodontist is to teeth what a cardiologist is to the heart. Orthodontists are highly trained specialists who partner with your dentist to provide you with the best oral healthcare.

Orthodontists are qualified dentists, who after graduating from dental school, go on to additional full-time education in an accredited orthodontic residency program supervised by orthodontists. That training lasts at least two academic years — sometimes more. By learning about tooth movement (orthodontics) and guidance of facial development (dentofacial orthopedics), orthodontists are the uniquely trained experts in dentistry to straighten teeth and align jaws.

Orthodontists diagnose, prevent and treat dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists treat a wide variety of malocclusions (improperly aligned teeth and/or jaws). They regularly treat young children, teens and adults.

Source: MedlinePlus and American Association of Orthodontists

Note: This definition was prepared to help consumers find reliable health resources on the web. This site is not responsible for the information on other sites. The information here — and on all websites — is not intended to be a substitute for care given to you by a health professional.

Recommended Reading

American Association of Orthodontists

The goal of orthodontic treatment is a good bite - meaning straight teeth that mesh well with the teeth in the opposite jaw. Orthodontic appliances, or braces, have changed over the years and many more options are available today. This site includes in-depth information for parents and adults considering orthodontics.

Canadian Association of Orthodontists

Featuring a "Orthodontic Information" section, this site addresses topics ranging from the age when starting braces, braces for adults, types of braces and more.