Sometimes your dentist might refer you to a specialized dental care provider. Today we are explaining why your dentist might be referring you to one of these other dental care professionals: the orthodontist
The orthodontist’s specialty:
An orthodontist is a dental care professional who specializes in the structural development of the bones and teeth of the mouth. Typically, your dentist will recommend an orthodontist to adolescent patients. During a routine dental exam, your dentist is looking to see how teeth and bone structure are growing and forming in a child’s or teenager’s mouth. The goal is to identify any problems early that can be corrected by an orthodontist. Particularly, the dentist will be evaluating the eruption pattern, or how aligned and straight, adult teeth are growing in a child’s mouth.
“First phase” orthodontic treatment:
In some cases, a child might be referred to the orthodontist earlier rather than later for what is called a “first phase” orthodontic treatment. The goal of this type of referral is to assess whether the child would benefit from orthodontic devices (braces or retainers) while their teeth continue to grow. Early orthodontic care while adult teeth are growing can help prevent a longer wear of braces down the line.
Teenage orthodontic treatment:
If “first phase” orthodontic care isn’t needed, then your dentist will wait and evaluate later on, once all adult teeth have grown in. Then, if your dentist thinks an orthodontist visit would benefit the structure and alignment of teeth, she will refer at that point.
Adult orthodontic treatment:
Furthermore, orthodontic care is not just for children. If you and your dentist feel that you would benefit from visiting an orthodontist to address spacing, alignment, and/or other bite issues, then she can refer you at this time as well.
In doubt about whether an orthodontist visit would benefit you? Ask your dentist about it at your next routine 3 or 6-month appointment!
