What does an orthodontist do?
An orthodontist is a dentist who has received additional specialized training to diagnose, prevent, and treat dental and facial irregularities, commonly known as "bad bites" or malocclusions. They use various orthodontic appliances like braces, clear aligners, and retainers to straighten teeth and align the jaws for proper bite and facial aesthetics.
What is the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?
A dentist is a general practitioner who provides routine dental care like cleanings, fillings, and extractions. An orthodontist is a specialist who has completed an additional 2-3 years of advanced training in orthodontics after dental school. Orthodontists focus solely on diagnosing and treating misaligned teeth and jaws using braces, aligners, and other orthodontic appliances
Why would you need to see an orthodontist?
People seek orthodontic treatment to correct various dental and facial irregularities, such as:
Crowded or overlapping teeth
Gaps between teeth
Overbite or underbite
Crossbite (when upper and lower jaws are misaligned)
Jaw misalignment or facial asymmetry
Orthodontic treatment can improve dental health, function, and appearance.
Do orthodontists just do braces?
No, orthodontists use various appliances beyond traditional metal braces. Other options include clear aligners (e.g., Invisalign), ceramic braces, lingual braces (behind the teeth), and removable appliances like retainers and headgear. The orthodontist determines the best treatment approach for each patient's needs.
What is the best age to see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic screening around age 7. Early evaluation allows the orthodontist to monitor jaw growth and detect any developing problems that may require interceptive treatment. However, most patients begin active orthodontic treatment between ages 9 and 14.
What are the most common orthodontic treatments in Pasadena?
Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces are the most widely used orthodontic appliance to straighten teeth and correct bite issues. They consist of metal brackets bonded to the teeth and connected by an archwire that applies gentle pressure to move the teeth into proper alignment.
Clear/Ceramic Braces
These braces work similarly to metal braces but have tooth-colored ceramic brackets that blend in better with the natural tooth color, making them more aesthetically appealing, especially for adults.
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Invisalign is a popular alternative to traditional braces that uses a series of clear, removable plastic aligners to gradually shift the teeth into the desired position. This system is virtually invisible and allows for easier cleaning compared to braces.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are placed on the inside (tongue side) of the teeth, making them completely hidden from view. This option is preferred by some patients for aesthetic reasons.
The most common orthodontic treatments offered by orthodontists in Pasadena include traditional metal braces, clear/ceramic braces, Invisalign clear aligners, lingual braces (placed on the inside of teeth), and early treatment/Phase 1 orthodontics for young children.
Traditional metal braces remain widely used to straighten teeth and correct bite issues, while clear aligners like Invisalign provide an aesthetic alternative. Lingual braces are a discreet option placed behind the teeth. Early orthodontic treatment can address issues like underbites and crowding before all permanent teeth have erupted.
Why Choose Aloha Dental Pasadena for Your Orthodontic Care in Pasadena?
Aloha Dental Pasadena is an expert in orthodontics and located at 668 N Los Robles Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101. They offer a comprehensive range of orthodontic treatments, including braces, Invisalign, and early interceptive treatment. Patients choose Aloha Dental in Pasadena for their high-quality orthodontic care, personalized approach, and commitment to achieving beautiful, healthy smiles through advanced techniques.
Aloha Dental Pasadena
Address: 668 N Los Robles Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101
Phone: (626) 529-5965
