If you have ever been in a dentist's office, you have probably heard the term "orthodontist". If you don't know what it is, you've probably also been told that it deals with the diagnosis and management of malpositioned teeth that are out of alignment. This specialty of dentistry may also address the modification of facial growth and development, a practice known as dentofacial orthopedics. Here are some basics of this specialty: The benefits of orthodontic treatment are far more than just cosmetic. You can read more about orthodontics here. Crooked or misaligned teeth can cause a whole host of dental issues, including dental decay and periodontal disease. Additionally, misaligned teeth can create extra stress on the chewing muscles, resulting in headaches and TMJ syndrome. To gather more about orthodontics, click here to get started. This, in turn, can lead to other medical issues, such as cleft lip and palate, as well as neck, shoulder, and back pain. Despite the high-profile of the profession, there is no shortage of good orthodontists in the United States. In fact, one in four of these professionals is an adult. The same issues can cause uneven teeth and jaws, making it vital to seek professional care as early as possible. Orthodontics has become a popular specialty over the past decade, with more than one in four people suffering from the same issue as a child. In addition to misaligned teeth, people can experience poor oral health due to poor cleaning habits or malocclusion. Insufficient cleaning habits or sugary foods can cause malocclusion. As such, it is important to clean your teeth regularly to prevent plaque buildup. In addition, minor movements of teeth occur throughout life, but these are rarely serious enough to warrant more extensive orthodontic treatment. However, they can make it difficult to brush and floss properly. Fixed appliances are the most common orthodontic devices. These are typically used when precision is important. In many cases, fixed appliances can be used with a normal diet, though it is still important to limit carbonated drinks, gum, and sticky foods. Adults often choose this option due to its unobtrusiveness. Aligners are removable, but they must be removed for brushing, flossing, and eating. This treatment is not suitable for children who play contact sports. If you qualify, you can get treatment on the NHS. The process is similar to visiting a dentist, but the difference is that you'll need several visits before you see the doctor. The first appointment is called a consultation visit. During the consultation visit, the orthodontist will examine your mouth and discuss the various treatment options with you. You'll also be asked to decide on payment options. Your orthodontist will help you feel comfortable. In addition to dental school, orthodontics requires additional certification. After completing a dental school residency, orthodontists can go into practice after passing additional certification tests. The process takes two to three years and requires further study. Once certified, an orthodontist may practice in the office of a general dentist. A dentist may also refer a patient to an orthodontist for specific treatment. So, the education requirements are similar for both dentists and orthodontists. Kindly visit this website https://www.britannica.com/science/orthodontics for more useful reference.