An orthodontist is a dentist who specializes in correcting irregularities in tooth alignment and bite problems. While general dentists focus on dental health, cavity treatment, and tooth restoration, orthodontists specifically work on restoring the correct position of teeth and jaws.
The development of orthodontics in Armenia has been a challenging journey. This field was always more advanced abroad, while in the Soviet Union it remained underdeveloped. To bring orthodontics to a modern level in Armenia, specialists had to attend numerous international conferences and seminars, mainly in Germany. This allowed them to acquire knowledge, technologies, and established practices that are now applied in Armenia, enabling younger generations to continue the profession at an international standard.
Why You Should Visit an Orthodontist
Prevention of health problems
Irregular tooth alignment can lead to several serious issues:
- Hygiene difficulties – crowded teeth are harder to clean, which can cause gum disease and premature tooth loss.
- Chewing problems – with an incorrect bite, some teeth bear excessive load while others are not used at all.
- Jaw joint issues – misaligned jaws can lead to temporomandibular joint problems, headaches, and difficulty chewing.
- Breathing difficulties – jaw misalignment can reduce oral cavity space and negatively affect breathing.
Improvement of self-confidence
Misaligned or poorly positioned teeth often make people hide their smiles. After orthodontic treatment, patients experience a significant boost in self-esteem and feel more confident when interacting with others.
When to Visit an Orthodontist
The start of orthodontic treatment depends on the type of problem. The most important step is to let your dentist help determine the right time.
Early treatment
If the issue is related to jaw growth disorders, treatment should begin as early as 4–5 years of age. These cases involve jaw development problems that may later cause serious complications.
Treatment with braces
Treatment with braces usually begins after the age of 12, once a child has all permanent teeth. Some problems can be solved at 10–11 years of age without any special preparation.
Why Early Visits Are Important
Visiting an orthodontist at an early age makes it possible to diagnose problems that require early treatment. In such cases, it is possible to influence the growth and development of the facial and jaw system and solve serious bone-related issues before growth is complete.
If parents delay taking their child to an orthodontist until after growth is finished, many corrective treatments become impossible or much more complicated.
Signs That a Child Needs an Orthodontist
You should consider visiting an orthodontist if you notice any of the following in your child:
- Uneven bite (upper and lower teeth not closing properly)
- Forward position of the lower jaw
- Jaw deviation
- Habit of breathing with an open mouth
- Crooked teeth
- Large gaps or overcrowding between teeth
In many cases, the earlier you act, the shorter and more effective the treatment will be. It is recommended to schedule the first orthodontist visit at an early age, even if the teeth appear to be in normal condition.
The Role of Orthodontists in General Health
An orthodontist does much more than create a beautiful smile. They treat complex functional problems that affect the whole body, from breathing and chewing to overall well-being. Modern orthodontics has all the necessary tools to provide long-term and effective treatment at any age.
