Orthodontists are dental specialists trained to diagnose, prevent and treat teeth and jaw irregularities. They can help fix problems like large gaps in the teeth (diastema), which tend to grow bigger over time and affect the alignment of other teeth and the mouth.

They can also correct problems like overcrowding, which is when the teeth do not fit into the jaw properly. They can do this by using different types of orthodontic appliances such as braces (which can be made from metal, ceramics or clear (“invisible”) materials), headgear, and facemasks to apply pressure on the teeth and/or jaw bones to encourage them to align correctly.

Orthodontist in El Cajon: Braces and Invisalign for Beautiful Smiles

Most people think of orthodontists as the dentists who put braces on children’s teeth. However, orthodontists work with patients of all ages, including adults. Many adults who have bad bites or misaligned teeth and jaws benefit from treatment just as much as kids do.

To become an orthodontist, dentists must first go to college and then dental school. Then they attend a 2- to 3-year orthodontic residency program, where they learn the specifics of orthodontic treatment. While general dentists are very well-trained, they do not have the specialization required to become orthodontists. This is why it is important to see a board-certified orthodontist for your smile. Only then can you be sure that you are receiving care from a true orthodontic specialist?