Orthodontics Essay

BRACE yourself for Orthodontics! An orthodontist can be defined through medical terminology as a specialist in the straightening of teeth. The tasks of the typical orthodontists include “assessing, diagnosing, and correcting malocclusions”, incorrect positioning of the teeth when biting (bad bites), with the use of various orthodontic appliances, but without oral or maxillofacial surgery, the job of an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. (Four Seasons Dental-Orthodontics and Orthodontists)The importance of treating malocclusions lies in the consequences of not correcting bad bites. These tentative problems due to malocclusions include mouth breathing, which leads to xerostomia and inadequate air insulation and filtering, as well as “uncomfortable and harmful biting/chewing, speech difficulties, and an unattractive smile”. (Times Health guide-Malocclusions of Teeth) A particularly significant reason to correct malocclusions is the prevention of tooth decay, in that
Proper training and education would be the appropriate answer to that query. The educational requirements for a licensed orthodontist include four years of undergraduate schooling (which would consist partially of required classes for graduate school) and a Bachelor’s degree, a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM) granted after 4 years at a dental school, and two to three years of specialized orthodontist training taken in a post-doctoral orthodontics program. After passing the National Board Dental Examinations, state certification can be granted. Optional extra certification includes licensing by either the National Board of Orthodontics, which requires meeting “continuing education requirements,” or the American Board of Orthodontics, which requires “periodic recertification exams.” (Orthodontist Training Program and