Orthodontic Specialists

This speciality deals with facial irregularities such as crooked or misshapen teeth. It also treats abnormal development of the teeth, face and jaws.

The main focus of this area is that of your ‘bite’ which is also known as ‘occlusion’. This refers to the action of your jaws opening and closing and is usually trouble free. However, some patients find that there is a problem when this action which means that their teeth don’t meet as they should. This can take the form of an ‘overbite’ or an ‘underbite’.

If you have too many or too few teeth; if your upper teeth stick out over your lower teeth or appear to be crooked then you will require the services of an orthodontist.

An orthodontist can straighten crooked teeth, remove extra teeth if they are causing overcrowding or realign a jaw joint. In most cases treatment will take the form of a device known as a brace. Types of brace include Lingual, Invisalign, Damon and Inman Aligners.

Orthodontic treatment can be carried out for aesthetic reasons but generally, it is undertaken because there is a recognisable medical need.

Orthodontists either work in private practice or the NHS (general dental services. If they work in the NHS then they will hold a consultant position or they may choose to be a part of community dental services.

They can also teach in dental schools at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

To be an orthodontist requires Membership in Orthodontics (MOrth) and at least 3 years postgraduate training plus experience in a clinical setting. He or she will undertake work in a dental hospital as well as academic study.

Another related qualification is Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons (MRCS), Membership of the Joint Dental Faculties (MJDF) or Faculty of Dental Surgery (MFDS).

Dental Specialists Guide Index:

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