Best Dentist Orthodontist in Temecula
What is an Orthodontist?
Doctors trained in the field of orthodontics are specially trained to assess, identify, and treat the conditions and abnormalities associated with the areas of the teeth and jaw. Known as orthodontists, these dentists work to specifically diagnose and correct teeth and jaws that are misaligned and crooked.
In addition to their 4 years in an accredited dental school, dentists must go on to an additional 2 to 3 years of training in an orthodontics residency program before officially receiving their certificate in orthodontics.
These specialists then become orthodontists, who are members of either the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO) or the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO). They could be a member of both, too. A certified, licensed doctor with a specialty certificate is the best orthodontist to go with when undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Orthodontists also carry the titles of Orthodontic Specialist and Orthodontic & Dentofacial Orthopedist. Whichever title they refer to themselves as, their sole specialization is focused on the correction of the jaws and teeth.
Even amongst orthodontic specialists, there is a difference in treatment outcomes from one practice to another. The results that are achieved in treatment are not a function of what type of device is used (Ie. specific brands of braces or Invisalign). Instead, results achieved are dependent on the skill level of the doctor and staff carrying out the treatment.
Dr. Burke and Dr. Redford are dedicated to this specialized dental field and offer professional, personalized patient care. They have over 40 years of combined experience and successful smile transformations for their patients. When it comes to the best dentist orthodontists in Temecula and Lake Elsinore, Burke & Redford Orthodontists are at the top of the list.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
In asking “what is an orthodontist,” many patients want to understand how this specialized dentist can help them. While orthodontists are sometimes referred to as “braces orthodontists” by lay people, treating patients with braces is only a fraction of what they do every day.
Some of the many issues that orthodontists work to correct are as follows:
- Incorrect jaw positions or bite relationships (malocclusions). Ie. overbite, underbite, crossbite, or openbite
- Impacted teeth
- Incorrectly erupting teeth
- Excessive spacing between teeth
- Crowding of teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Protrusive or “buck” teeth
If you know or suspect you or your child has any of these issues, schedule a free consultation at Burke & Redford Orthodontists. Our offices are conveniently located in both Temecula and Lake Elsinore.
While treating patients of all age groups, orthodontists not only treat preexisting problems, they are trained to spot and diagnose issues that are currently developing in patients. Early detection and treatment of developing problems can simplify a patient’s orthodontic experience and help to avoid costly and invasive intervention later.
The ideal time for orthodontic treatment is when a person is still growing. Jaw growth can be influenced, and outcomes are typically improved in growing children and adolescents. For this reason, it is a good idea for a child to be seen by an orthodontist by age 7 for an initial screening.
Finding successful orthodontists like Dr. Redford and Dr. Burke means patients get the best results and highest quality treatment using the latest technology in a relaxing setting that’s also fun for children and teens and comfortable for adults.
Treating Orthodontic Problems in Children
The American Association of Orthodontics (AAO) recommends that parents ensure their children receive an initial pediatric orthodontist specialist consultation at approximately age 7.
At this age, the kids’ orthodontist can advise whether treatment will be needed and the ideal timing for doing so. The orthodontist will also evaluate growth patterns and inform the parent if any other conditions are present in the developing mouth or jaw areas.
When it comes to treating children, timing is everything. For some conditions like underbites, crossbites, and thumb sucking habits, earlier is better! For other conditions like overbites, treatment during the adolescent growth spurt is best. As an orthodontist that has extensive experience with children, Dr. Redford recommends having children checked early on, so a baseline is established and used as comparative reference as the child ages towards adolescence.
How The Initial Consultation Works
Orthodontic records, including a series of photos that show the teeth, smile, and facial balance are taken as well as a minimal number of necessary x-rays. The patient then meets with the orthodontist to discuss their concerns and goals for treatment.
Dr. Redford and Dr. Burke personalize each patient’s treatment plan according to the nature and degree of their orthodontic issues, and always take into consideration the patient’s goals and preferences for treatment. The doctors’ objective is to ensure you always receive the best result with the latest orthodontic technology.
Treatment options will be thoroughly discussed, including removable appliances like Invisalign and fixed appliances like braces. Then, the best course of treatment will be outlined by our expert orthodontists to fit what is best for you or your child.
Common Orthodontic Treatments
Braces are the most common fixed appliances used by orthodontists to correct crooked teeth and uneven bites. Teeth are gradually straightened, and the upper and lower teeth are coordinated to bite together properly. Consisting of brackets and wires, braces enable orthodontist to precisely and predictably move teeth in any direction.
Clear aligners like Invisalign are also available. It is important to note that Invisalign only works well when done in the right hands. In other words, orthodontic treatment is not a product, it is a service. Invisalign is simply a tool used in an orthodontist’s hands. The results that are achieved in treatment are dependent on the skill level of the doctor who is diagnosing and directing the necessary tooth movement with Invisalign.
Orthodontic appliances like expanders, space maintainers, and bite correctors are commonly used in children and adolescents to influence jaw growth, create additional space in the mouth, or save space for teeth to erupt.
Whichever type of appliance is used, gentle but constant pressure is used to move the teeth safely and efficiently. This is done in a way that elicits the least amount of discomfort for the patient.
Treatment time ranges can vary greatly depending on the severity of the issues being addressed. Very simple problems can be corrected in a matter of months, whereas significant issues can take longer.
Don’t hesitate to contact Burke & Redford Orthodontists at (951) 699-8011 or fill out the contact form on our website to schedule a free orthodontic consultation and find out why they are known as the best dentist orthodontist in Temecula and Lake Elsinore.