AboutWhat is an Orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a fully qualified dentist who gained a post-graduate masters degree in the field of orthodontics after having spent four years’ full time training at an accredited university.
Only those who have successfully completed this formal education may call themselves “Orthodontists” and be registered as a specialist with the Health Professions Council of South Africa.
Orthodontics is part science, part engineering, and part art, and is not merely just “straightening teeth”.
Teeth should be aligned to: optimize their functional biting relationship, to be in harmony with movements of the jaw joint, and to be in an aesthetic balance with the face and the lips.
An in depth understanding of growth and development of the face and jaws are essential in order to correctly position the teeth in a growing child.
When you undergo orthodontic treatment, a myriad of factors has to be taken into consideration such as jaw alignment, growth, dental challenges (e.g. missing/malformed teeth), patient factors (e.g. maturity/age factors), logistic factors (e.g. long-distance treatments), and many others. Only a fully qualified Orthodontist is trained to deal with all these factors.
Orthodontists are therefore uniquely qualified in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of orthodontic problems. They dedicate their professional lives exclusively to create healthy, beautiful smiles in children, teenagers and adults. Orthodontic care is often also part of a comprehensive oral health plan and work in conjunction with dentists and other specialists.
Orthodontists use a variety of appliances including clear aligners, fixed braces, removable plates, and retainers to move or hold teeth in their correct positions.
Dr J is a fully qualified orthodontist and he is trained to ensure that harmony and facial balance are achieved.
You do not need to be referred by your dentist to see an orthodontist and you may go directly to an orthodontist of your choice.