Who is an Orthodontist: What do they do?
Who Is an Orthodontist? What Do They Do?
If you’ve ever heard someone mention braces, aligners, or bite correction, chances are they were referring to something an orthodontist does. But who exactly is an orthodontist—and how are they different from your regular dentist?
At Gargi’s Dental Care, Kolkata, we believe that informed patients make the best health choices. So here’s a simple breakdown of what orthodontists do, when to see one, and how they can help you achieve a straighter, healthier smile.
Who Is an Orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating problems related to tooth alignment, jaw position, and bite patterns.
While all orthodontists are dentists, not all dentists are orthodontists. After completing general dental school, an orthodontist undergoes additional years of specialised training to become an expert in correcting misaligned teeth and jaws.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
An orthodontist works with children, teens, and adults to treat issues like:
Crooked or Crowded Teeth
Teeth that overlap, twist, or don't have enough space in the jaw.
Gaps Between Teeth
Spaces due to small teeth, missing teeth, or wide jaws.
Bite Problems
Such as:
- Overbite – Upper teeth overlap too much over the lower ones
- Underbite – Lower teeth extend forward past the upper teeth
- Crossbite – Upper and lower teeth don’t align properly
- Open bite – Front teeth don’t touch even when the mouth is closed
Jaw Misalignment
Orthodontists can help correct jaw positioning, sometimes in coordination with jaw surgery.
Tooth Movement After Braces
If you didn’t wear your retainer, an orthodontist can correct shifting teeth.
Treatments Offered by Orthodontists
At Gargi’s Dental Care, our in-house orthodontic team provides a wide range of modern treatments:
Braces (Metal or Ceramic)
Fixed appliances that slowly guide teeth into the right position using brackets and wires.
Clear Aligners (Invisalign, Flash, etc.)
Removable, nearly invisible trays customized to your bite.
Space Maintainers (for children)
Devices that hold space for adult teeth if baby teeth are lost too early.
Retainers
Used after braces or aligners to maintain the new position of your teeth.
Habit-Breaking Appliances
Used in children to help stop thumb-sucking or tongue thrusting, which can affect jaw growth.
Jaw Expansion or Functional Appliances
Used to guide the development of the jaws during childhood.
When Should You See an Orthodontist?
It’s not just about having straight teeth—orthodontic care is about ensuring a functional, healthy, and attractive bite.
You should consider visiting an orthodontist if:
- Your teeth are visibly crooked or gapped
- You have difficulty biting or chewing
- Your jaws make clicking sounds or feel strained
- You feel self-conscious about your smile
- Your child has developed bad oral habits (thumb sucking, mouth breathing)
- You wore braces years ago and your teeth have shifted back
The ideal age for a child’s first orthodontic check-up is around age 7, but it’s never too late to begin treatment as an adult.
Why Orthodontic Care Matters
- Healthier teeth – Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of decay and gum disease
- Better aesthetics – A straighter smile boosts self-esteem
- Improved speech and chewing – Misaligned bites can affect basic functions
- Jaw comfort – Reduces the risk of pain or TMJ disorders
Why Choose Gargi’s Dental Care, Kolkata for Orthodontics?
- Experienced orthodontists with years of specialised training
- Advanced digital scans and treatment planning
- Options for every age—children, teens, and adults
- Clear explanations and no-pressure consultations
- Aesthetic-friendly choices like ceramic braces and clear aligners
Let’s Align More Than Just Teeth—Let’s Align Confidence.
Orthodontic treatment is about more than perfect teeth. It’s about comfort, confidence, and long-term oral health.
Book your orthodontic consultation at Gargi’s Dental Care, Kolkata, and let our experts guide you toward your best smile—step by step.
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