Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics
What Is the Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist?
All orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists.
A dentist focuses on overall oral health, fillings, cleanings, crowns, and general care.
An orthodontist completes several extra years of specialty training after dental school, focusing only on diagnosing and correcting bite problems, misaligned teeth, and jaw relationships.
If you are considering braces or clear aligners, an orthodontist is the specialist trained to plan and manage that care.
What Is Phase 2 Treatment And How Is It Different?
Phase 2 treatment usually begins once all or most permanent teeth have come in. This phase fine-tunes the bite and alignment using braces or clear aligners to create a stable, healthy, and confident smile. Not every child needs two phases, but when recommended, Phase 1 and Phase 2 work together for the best long-term result.
How Do Braces And Aligners Actually Move Teeth?
Braces and aligners use gentle, continuous pressure to guide teeth into better positions over time. Brackets and wires (or clear aligners) apply forces planned by the orthodontist, and the bone around the roots remodels in response. This controlled process is what allows teeth to shift safely and predictably.
Will I Need Retainers After Orthodontic Treatment?
Yes. Retainers are an essential part of treatment. Once braces or aligners come off, retainers help keep teeth in their new positions while the surrounding bone and gums stabilize. Most patients wear retainers full-time at first, then at night long term to maintain their results.
Why Do Teeth Sometimes Shift After Braces Or Aligners?
Teeth can naturally drift over time due to aging, biting forces, and oral habits. Without retainers, they may slowly move toward their original positions. Wearing retainers as instructed is the best way to protect your investment and keep your smile straight.
Can Wisdom Teeth Affect My Orthodontic Results?
Wisdom teeth are not usually the main cause of crowding after treatment, but impacted or problematic wisdom teeth can contribute to discomfort or gum issues. Your orthodontist and dentist will monitor your wisdom teeth and let you know if removal is recommended to protect your overall oral health.
Do Braces Treat TMJ Problems?
Braces are designed to straighten teeth and improve bite alignment, not specifically to treat TMJ disorders. In some cases, better alignment can reduce strain on the jaw, but TMJ symptoms often have multiple causes and may require additional evaluation and care beyond orthodontic treatment.
Can Habits Like Tongue Thrust Or Mouth Breathing Affect My Smile?
Yes. Habits such as tongue thrusting, thumb sucking, or chronic mouth breathing can influence jaw growth and tooth position, sometimes leading to open bites, protruding teeth, or crowding. Your orthodontist may recommend exercises, habit appliances, or coordination with other providers to address these issues along with braces or aligners.
Can I Transfer If I Started Treatment Somewhere Else?
Yes. Your new orthodontist will review your current braces or aligners, take any needed records, and create a plan to finish treatment based on what still needs to be done.
Do I Need to Take Antibiotics Before My Orthodontic Appointment?
Most patients do not, but if your doctor or dentist has ever told you to take antibiotics before dental work, let your orthodontist know so they can follow those guidelines.
Do You Offer Emergency Appointments?
Yes. If you have a broken bracket, poking wire, or pain that you cannot manage at home, the office will schedule you for the next available emergency visit.