What Is an Orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed two to three years of advanced training beyond dental school. This additional education focuses specifically on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth, jaws, and bites. So what an orthodontist does goes far beyond what most people picture. While all orthodontists are dentists, not all dentists are orthodontists.
These specialists earn certification through the American Board of Orthodontics after demonstrating expertise in their field. At Holmes & Palmer Orthodontics, Dr. Holmes and Dr. Palmer bring this specialized knowledge to patients of all ages, drawing on a combined 60+ years of orthodontic experience. Parents concerned about a child’s developing bite and adults considering Invisalign both find that orthodontists have the training to create effective treatment plans for every situation.
The scope of orthodontic care goes well beyond straightening teeth. Orthodontists evaluate how your upper and lower jaws fit together, assess facial growth patterns in children, and identify issues that could affect chewing, speaking, or long-term oral health. This broader view is one reason why patients often see meaningful improvements in daily function after working with an orthodontic specialist. What an orthodontist does, in short, is treat the full picture of how your smile works, not just how it looks.
How Does Orthodontic Treatment Work: From Consultation to Retention
Orthodontic treatment works in four stages: evaluation, planning, active treatment, and retention. A thorough evaluation captures images and bite data. Custom treatment planning then builds a roadmap around your goals. Active treatment moves teeth into position using braces, Invisalign, or specialized appliances. The retention phase keeps your new smile stable for the long haul.
What Happens at the Initial Evaluation?
Your first visit includes a thorough exam. You’ll receive digital scans, X-rays, and photographs to assess your teeth and jaw structure. A bite analysis reveals how your upper and lower teeth come together. This creates a complete picture of your alignment needs.
You’ll also discuss your goals and concerns. Our team explains what they observe and answers your questions about treatment options.
How Is a Custom Treatment Plan Created?
Based on the evaluation, our orthodontists develop a plan designed specifically for you. The plan considers:
- Current alignment and bite patterns
- Jaw structure and facial growth (especially important for younger patients)
- Your lifestyle preferences and treatment goals
- The most effective approach for your specific situation
What Does Active Treatment Involve?
Once the plan is set, active treatment begins. Depending on your needs, this might include braces, Invisalign, or specialized appliances. Regular adjustment appointments allow our team to monitor progress and make changes as needed.
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, most timelines range from 12 to 24 months. Cases involving heavy crowding or significant jaw correction may take longer, while smaller spacing cases often wrap up sooner.
Why Is the Retention Phase Important?
After active treatment ends, retention keeps results stable. Most patients wear retainers to prevent teeth from shifting back. You’ll get specific guidance on retainer wear based on the treatment you received.
What Are the Benefits of Seeing a Specialized Orthodontist?
Choosing a specialist for orthodontic care brings real differences to how your treatment feels and how it ends up looking.
How Do Specialists Diagnose Complex Issues?
Orthodontists see alignment and bite concerns daily. This focused experience means they can identify subtle issues that might be missed during a general dental exam. They understand how small concerns today can become bigger ones later. Dr. Holmes and Dr. Palmer hold advanced specialty training and active membership in national orthodontic associations, which sharpens that diagnostic eye every day in practice.
What Technology Do Orthodontic Practices Use?
Specialized practices invest in technology designed specifically for orthodontic treatment. 3D imaging, digital treatment planning, and the latest clear aligner systems are standard tools in an orthodontist’s practice. Holmes & Palmer Orthodontics is a diamond provider of Invisalign, reflecting extensive experience with clear aligner treatment.
How Does Orthodontic Care Improve Oral Health?
Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean and maintain. When teeth fit together correctly, you reduce wear on enamel and stress on jaw joints. Many patients notice better chewing function and even clearer speech after treatment.
A Better Smile Can Boost Confidence
A smile you feel good about affects how you present yourself in personal and professional situations. Orthodontic care delivers lasting results. Patients tell us it shapes how they show up in everyday moments, from job interviews to family photos years down the road.
Why Does Personalization Matter in Treatment?
No two mouths are identical. Orthodontists create individualized plans rather than applying one-size-fits-all solutions. Your treatment addresses your specific concerns and works with your unique anatomy.
Orthodontist vs General Dentist: Key Differences
Understanding when to see each type of provider helps you get the right care for your needs.
| Aspect | General Dentist | Orthodontist |
|---|---|---|
| Education | Dental school (4 years) | Dental school plus 2-3 years specialty residency |
| Primary Focus | Overall oral health, prevention, restoration | Tooth alignment, bite correction, jaw positioning |
| Common Procedures | Routine cleanings, preventive care, general dental treatments | Braces, Invisalign, retainers, specialized appliances |
| Daily Practice | Variety of dental treatments | Alignment and bite correction exclusively |
When Should You See Each Provider?
Your general dentist handles routine care: cleanings, preventive treatment, and overall oral health monitoring. They’re often the first to notice alignment concerns and may recommend an orthodontic evaluation.
An orthodontist becomes your provider when treatment involves:
- Straightening misaligned or crowded teeth
- Correcting overbites, underbites, or crossbites
- Addressing jaw alignment concerns
- Creating space for teeth that haven’t erupted properly
- Improving how your teeth fit together when you bite
Many patients see both providers during orthodontic treatment. Your dentist continues routine care while your orthodontist manages alignment correction. This team approach helps make sure every part of your oral health is supported throughout your time with us.
What Affects the Cost of Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment cost depends on five factors: case complexity, treatment type, duration, insurance coverage, and practice location. Two people with similar smiles can end up with different totals because each of these elements shifts the math. Here’s a closer look at what shapes the final number.
Complexity of Your Case
Simple spacing issues typically require less time and fewer appointments than heavy crowding or noticeable bite issues. More involved cases need more resources and expertise.
Treatment Type
Different approaches come with different costs. Braces, Invisalign, and specialized appliances each have their own pricing structures. Our orthodontists recommend options based on effectiveness for your situation, not just cost.
Treatment Duration
Longer treatment timelines mean more appointments and adjustments. A 12-month case costs less than one requiring 24 months of active treatment.
Insurance and Payment Options
Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits, though coverage varies widely. Holmes & Palmer Orthodontics offers a payment calculator and low payment options that spread costs over manageable monthly amounts. A complimentary consult can clarify costs specific to your situation.
Practice and Location
Orthodontic fees vary by geographic region and individual practice. Factors like technology investments, team expertise, and office amenities all play a role.
The best way to understand your investment is through a thorough evaluation. You’ll get accurate numbers, not averages.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Orthodontic Care?
Orthodontic treatment benefits people at many life stages. Here’s who typically seeks care and why.
When Should Children See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children visit an orthodontist around age seven. At this age, adult teeth are starting to come in, but there’s still enough development happening to address concerns early. Many young patients start early orthodontic evaluations right around this age.
Early evaluation doesn’t always mean early treatment. Sometimes monitoring growth is the best approach. When intervention helps, it can guide jaw development and create space for permanent teeth.
Why Do Teenagers Pursue Treatment?
The teen years remain the most common time for braces or Invisalign. Most permanent teeth have erupted, and jaw growth is still occurring. This combination makes treatment efficient and effective.
Teens today have more options than ever, including Invisalign and less visible bracket styles. Our team helps find an approach that fits your teen’s lifestyle and preferences.
Adults Benefit From Orthodontics, Too
It’s never too late. More adults pursue orthodontic treatment now than in previous generations, and we love seeing the excitement when an adult patient finally gets the smile they’ve wanted for years. Discreet options like Invisalign make treatment practical for professionals and anyone concerned about appearance during treatment.
Adults seek care for various reasons: addressing concerns that weren’t treated earlier, correcting shifting that occurred over time, or preparing for other dental work that requires better alignment. We see firsthand that orthodontic treatment is for everyone, regardless of age or stage of life.
Who Has Functional Concerns That Need Treatment?
Beyond aesthetics, orthodontic treatment addresses functional concerns. Jaw discomfort, TMJ issues, difficulty chewing, and speech concern can all improve with proper alignment. If your bite affects daily function, an orthodontic evaluation makes sense.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontists
Is an orthodontist a real doctor?
Yes, absolutely. Orthodontists complete dental school and earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. They then complete two to three additional years of specialty training focused entirely on orthodontics. Dr. Holmes and Dr. Palmer carry that advanced training along with active membership in national orthodontic associations.
Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist?
No referral is necessary. You can schedule directly with an orthodontic practice. Many patients do receive recommendations from their general dentist, but this isn’t required. Holmes & Palmer Orthodontics offers a complimentary consult for new patients.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Most orthodontic treatment takes 12 to 24 months. Your specific timeline depends on the type of correction needed. Simpler cases may resolve faster, and more involved cases may run longer. You’ll receive a personalized timeline estimate during your consultation.
Can orthodontists address concerns other than misaligned teeth?
Yes. Orthodontists treat overbites, underbites, crossbites, open bites, spacing issues, crowding, and jaw alignment concerns. They also address functional issues affecting chewing, breathing, and speech.
At what age should a child first see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation around age seven. This allows the orthodontist to monitor development and identify any concerns early. Early evaluation doesn’t mean early treatment. It simply means informed monitoring so families can plan ahead.
What’s the difference between Invisalign and braces?
Braces use brackets bonded to teeth with wires that apply pressure to move teeth. Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually shift teeth into position. Both are effective for many cases. Our team recommends the best option based on your specific alignment needs and lifestyle preferences.
Curious what orthodontic care can do for your smile? Reach out to Holmes & Palmer Orthodontics to schedule a consultation and talk through your options. Our team is here to help you find treatment that’s right for you so you can live life smiling.