What Does an Orthodontist Treat?
An orthodontist diagnoses and treats problems involving the position of the teeth and the way the upper and lower jaws fit together. These concerns are sometimes referred to as malocclusion, or a misaligned bite.
Schedule an orthodontic evaluation if you or your child has:
- Crooked or rotated teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overlapping teeth
- An overbite
- An underbite
- A crossbite
- An open bite
- Teeth that do not meet properly
- Difficulty cleaning crowded areas
- Teeth that have shifted after previous treatment
- Concerns about developing tooth or jaw alignment
Orthodontic treatment may be recommended for crooked, overlapping, twisted, crowded, or widely spaced teeth. It may also address problems with how the teeth fit together when the mouth closes.
Traditional Braces
Traditional metal braces use brackets and wires to gradually guide teeth into improved positions. They are a dependable treatment option for many types of crowding, spacing, and bite concerns.
During treatment, the orthodontist periodically adjusts the braces to continue moving the teeth according to the treatment plan. The length of treatment varies depending on the complexity of the alignment issue and how the teeth respond.
Traditional braces may be appropriate for children, teenagers, and adults who need predictable control over tooth movement.
Clear and Ceramic Braces
Clear or ceramic braces work similarly to traditional braces but use tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend more naturally with the teeth.
They may be considered by teenagers and adults who want the structure of fixed braces with a less noticeable appearance. Because clear braces remain attached to the teeth during treatment, patients must follow their orthodontist’s instructions for brushing, flossing, and avoiding foods that could damage the brackets.
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Invisalign treatment uses a customized series of clear, removable aligners to gradually reposition the teeth. The aligners are designed to fit closely over the teeth and can be removed when eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing.
Clear aligners may be used to treat certain cases involving gaps, crowding, crooked teeth, and bite irregularities. However, they may not be the right option for every patient. An orthodontic evaluation is necessary to determine whether Invisalign treatment can address your specific needs.
Gentle Dental in Brockton provides clear aligners and traditional braces as part of its orthodontic services.
Orthodontic Treatment for Children and Teens
A child’s teeth and jaws continue to change as they grow. An orthodontic evaluation can help identify crowding, bite irregularities, delayed tooth eruption, and other developing concerns.
Not every child who receives an early evaluation needs immediate treatment. In some cases, the orthodontist may recommend monitoring dental development until the appropriate time to begin.
Signs that your child or teenager may benefit from an orthodontic evaluation include:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Early or delayed loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty biting or chewing
- Upper and lower teeth that do not meet properly
- Protruding front teeth
- Persistent thumb sucking
- Mouth breathing
- Teeth erupting in unusual positions
- Jaw shifting or clicking
- Concerns raised during a routine dental examination
Our team explains findings and treatment recommendations clearly so parents can make informed decisions about their child’s care.
Orthodontic Treatment for Adults
Orthodontic treatment can be appropriate at many stages of adulthood. Adults may seek care for teeth that were never treated earlier, changes in alignment over time, or teeth that have shifted after previous orthodontic treatment.
Depending on your oral health and alignment concerns, treatment may involve traditional braces, clear braces, or Invisalign clear aligners.
Before beginning treatment, the orthodontist will evaluate the health of your teeth and gums. Existing cavities, gum disease, or other dental problems may need to be addressed before braces or aligners are placed.
What to Expect at an Orthodontic Consultation
Your first orthodontic visit gives the orthodontist an opportunity to examine your teeth, bite, and jaw alignment. The consultation may include:
- A review of your dental and medical history
- An examination of your teeth and gums
- An evaluation of your bite
- Digital dental X-rays or other diagnostic records
- A discussion of your treatment goals
- An explanation of appropriate orthodontic options
- An estimated treatment timeline
- Information about payment and insurance options
After the evaluation, the orthodontist will explain whether treatment is recommended and which option may be appropriate for your needs.
Treatment plans are personalized because the type and duration of orthodontic care depend on the patient’s alignment, bite, age, oral health, and treatment goals.
Caring for Your Smile During Orthodontic Treatment
Good oral hygiene is especially important while wearing braces or clear aligners. Food and plaque can collect around brackets, wires, or improperly cleaned aligners, increasing the risk of cavities and gum irritation.
During treatment, patients should:
- Brush thoroughly as directed
- Floss around brackets and wires
- Clean removable aligners regularly
- Remove aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water
- Avoid foods that could damage braces
- Attend scheduled adjustment and progress appointments
- Continue routine dental exams and professional cleanings
- Contact the office if an appliance becomes loose, broken, or uncomfortable
Following your orthodontist’s instructions can help treatment stay on schedule and protect the health of your teeth and gums.
Retainers After Braces or Clear Aligners
Teeth can gradually shift after active orthodontic treatment ends. A retainer helps hold the teeth in their corrected positions while the surrounding tissues adjust.
Your orthodontist will explain how often and how long to wear your retainer. Wearing it as directed is an important part of protecting your orthodontic results.
Contact the office if your retainer becomes damaged, feels unusually tight, or no longer fits properly.
Why Choose Gentle Dental for Orthodontics in Brockton?
Gentle Dental in Brockton provides orthodontic and general dental services in one convenient location. Patients can receive coordinated care from dentists and specialists without needing to manage treatment across several separate offices.
Patients choose our Brockton office for:
- Orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults
- Traditional braces and clear aligner options
- Personalized treatment planning
- An orthodontist available at the Brockton office
- General and specialty dental services under one roof
- Digital dental technology
- Clear communication throughout treatment
- Convenient scheduling options
- Assistance understanding insurance and payment options
- A welcoming dental environment
Our Brockton office is located in Shaw’s West Side Plaza at 641 Belmont Street, Brockton, MA 02301. The location provides traditional braces, clear aligners, and access to an orthodontic specialist.
