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Orthodontists play a unique role in the world of dental health, offering specialized care focused on aligning teeth, correcting bites, and improving jaw development. Unlike general dentists, orthodontists undergo additional training—typically two to three years of residency—before offering treatments like braces, clear aligners, or airway-focused care.
This guide explores everything orthodontists do, how they differ from other dental professionals, and why their expertise matters for patients in Abingdon, VA and beyond.
Understanding the Scope of Orthodontic Practice
Orthodontics covers a broad range of treatments that go beyond cosmetic enhancements:
- Diagnosis and treatment planning — Using digital imaging and models to assess tooth position, jaw alignment, and bite function
- Growth guidance for children — Addressing jaw discrepancies early with appliances or interceptive care
- Full orthodontic treatment — Aligning adult and teen teeth with braces or clear aligners
- Airway-focused care — Supporting facial development to optimize breathing and sleep
- Orthodontic emergencies and maintenance — Repairing damaged appliances, retainer follow-ups, and monitoring long-term stability
How Orthodontists Diagnose Dental and Facial Issues
Effective orthodontic care starts with a comprehensive evaluation. During the first visit—which often includes a dental exam, growth history, and imaging—the orthodontist assesses:
- Tooth alignment and spacing
- Bite relationships (overbite, underbite, crossbite)
- Facial symmetry and jaw structure
- Airway function and breathing patterns
Advanced tools such as CBCT scans, digital bite modeling, and intraoral scanning (instead of goopy impressions) help guide treatment decisions with precision.
From Abingdon to nearby communities in Southwest Virginia, this diagnostic phase sets the foundation for effective interventions that support both oral health and overall well-being.
Phase 1 and Phase 2 Treatments — Guided Growth and Final Alignment
Phase One: Early Interceptive Treatment
Begins around age 7–9, addressing issues like:
- Jaw mismatch or crossbite
- Crowding that risks future eruption problems
- Airway-related concerns such as mouth breathing or sleeping issues
This early engagement can simplify or shorten later treatment—and sometimes eliminate the need for extractions or surgical intervention.
Resting Phase
After Phase One, there’s a monitoring period to allow adult teeth to come in. During this rest phase, orthodontists periodically check development, preserve results, and prepare for full treatment when needed.
Phase Two: Full Orthodontic Treatment
Typically begins between ages 11–14. At this stage, braces or clear aligners are used to:
- Align all permanent teeth
- Finalize bite mechanics
- Enhance facial balance and symmetry
Two-phase treatment helps ensure healthier growth and lasting orthodontic stability.
Tools and Appliances Orthodontists Use
Orthodontists specialize in both hardware and novel technologies to achieve precise outcomes:
- Brackets and archwires — Metal or ceramic brackets connected by wires for controlled tooth movement
- Clear aligners — Removable trays made for teens or adults seeking discreet treatment
- Functional appliances and expanders — Designed to grow or reposition jaws and improve airway
- Nightguards and retainers — Devices to protect teeth, maintain results, and prevent relapse
- Digital diagnostics — Using CBCT, iTero scanning, and dental monitoring to track progress virtually
These tools allow dental specialists to tailor care to developmental needs—and stay focused on long‑term function, not just appearance.
Who Stays on the Orthodontist’s Caseload?
Patients typically see orthodontists for:
- Early interceptive care in children
- Full teenage alignment using braces or Invisalign Teen
- Adults seeking discreet treatment or adjustments after past orthodontics
- Individuals with airway, jaw pain, or functional bite concerns
- Anyone needing follow-ups after appliances or retainers to ensure long-term stability
Serving Abingdon and surrounding areas, orthodontists treat both healthy smiles and more complex cases requiring experienced planning.
Benefits of Orthodontic Care From a Specialist
Orthodontists provide benefits that go beyond straight teeth:
- Improved oral health — Straight teeth are easier to clean, reducing cavities and gum concerns
- Better bite function — Reduces jaw strain, grinding, and premature enamel wear
- Airway support — Particularly helpful for young patients with sleep-related breathing issues
- Reduced need for future dental work — Early alignment can prevent costly interventions
- Long-lasting results — Retention plans and monitoring help your smile last a lifetime
Well-aligned teeth also support confidence, facial symmetry, and overall health—making orthodontics a worthwhile investment in more ways than one.
Aftercare and Retention
Orthodontic success includes more than finishing active treatment:
- Retainer use — Often full-time initially, then part-time to preserve alignment
- Periodic checkups — Annual or semi-annual visits to confirm stability
- Coordination with general dentistry — Smooth transitions back to routine dental care after braces or aligners
- Addressing minor changes — Relapse or minor shifting can often be corrected with minimal intervention
An orthodontist ensures your results last, so straight smiles stay straight.
Orthodontic Emergencies You Might Encounter
Unexpected appliance-related issues can arise—knowing when and how to act matters:
- Poking or loose wires — Orthodontic wax or home trimming can help until repair
- Broken bracket or band — Often repairable with a short appointment
- Missing aligner or retainer — Prompt replacement helps eliminate drift
- Jaw irritation or sores — Saltwater rinses, wax, or gentle care can provide relief
Orthodontists guide patients through these minor emergencies, reducing inconvenience and keeping treatment on time.
Why Specialized Orthodontic Care Matters in Abingdon, VA
Orthodontic expertise is vital for meaningful, safe results—not just cosmetic changes:
- Orthodontists train specifically in growth patterns, bite mechanics, and developmental timing
- They provide advanced diagnostics and appliances unavailable in general dentistry
- For local families in Abingdon and Southwest Virginia, this means care tuned to both facial development and dental progress
When orthodontists lead treatment, outcomes are more predictable—and healthier—for a lifetime.
Final Thought and Next Step
Orthodontists combine clinical skill, specialized technology, and strategic planning to guide everything from childhood growth to adult smile alignment. Whether intercepting airway issues or delivering full-phase care, their role is deeply rooted in function, structure, and health—not just straight teeth.
Interested in Orthodontic Care in Abingdon, VA?
If you’re curious about how orthodontic specialists can support your child or your smile, Westfall Orthodontics in Abingdon offers dedicated evaluations, digital diagnostics, and customized treatment plans. Call or schedule a free consultation today—the experienced team is here to guide you toward a healthier, more confident future.
