As a mother of three young children, I understand the anxieties that come with “doing what is best” for my family. It can be difficult to make choices regarding your children’s health, particularly with so much information at our disposal. As an orthodontist, a common question asked of me is, “Why should I see an orthodontist?”.

1. Orthodontists are specialists.

Orthodontists are experts in their field, specialising in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Although orthodontists and dentists share many similarities – they both work hard to help you improve your overall oral health – specialisation is what sets an orthodontist apart from a dentist. It’s a bit like the difference between your GP medical doctor and a specialist physician, like a dermatologist.

Did you know that orthodontists complete an additional three years of full-time university (specialist orthodontic degree), on top of their general dental degree? Following this specialisation, they limit their practice to providing only orthodontic treatment, so orthodontics is what they do all day, every day. Only an orthodontist has this specialist training and therefore, are the most qualified and experienced person to address your orthodontic needs. We are committed to creating beautiful smiles and faces.

2. Your smile is one of your most important features

It is one of the first things we notice when we greet someone, it’s the way we remember one another, and it’s the way we interact with one another. Having confidence can positively change your life, which is why consulting an orthodontist to create the smile of your life, is so important.

3. Psychological and physical benefits

An orthodontist can improve your self-confidence, but also provide physical benefits through correction of:

• Bad bites that damage teeth and gums
• Protruding, crooked and gappy teeth
• Speech, breathing or chewing difficulties
• Misaligned jaws and an unbalanced facial profile
• Obstructive sleep apnoea
• Persistent thumb and finger sucking habits in children.

4. Options to suit every lifestyle

Orthodontic treatment has come a long way since the days of chunky metal braces and headgear. Contemporary orthodontic treatments, including clear braces and aligners (e.g. InvisalignTM) are sleek and comfortable, so that you can get on with your life without fear of embarrassment.

5. Kids and orthodontics

Did you know that young kids with crooked teeth or bad bites should be seen by an orthodontist at around age 7-8yrs? And that no referral is required? If you answered ‘no,’ don’t worry, you’re not alone! Most Aussie parents are a little confused when it comes to understanding orthodontics. 

Orthodontists are highly trained to pinpoint a child’s orthodontic problems from a young age, even if they are subtle. Although early orthodontic treatment won’t be needed for the majority of youngsters, early assessment can give an orthodontist the opportunity to avoid complex and invasive treatment, by providing early intervention when indicated.

A beautiful, straight smile not only means your teeth are easier to clean and your gums are healthier, it can also promote self-esteem and confidence, reduce stress and improve your quality of life. Only a specialist orthodontist has the training, experience and complete range of treatment options to give you the confidence that you’re in the best hands.

Adapted from information at www.aso.org.au

Dr Linda Ton, Orthodontist
Townsville Orthodontic Specialists