Updated 10/14/2020

An orthodontist is a dentist who specializes in and treats patients to correct the alignment of teeth and jaws. After dental school, an orthodontist spends at least 2 additional years studying and training specifically in the field of orthodontics. This type of dental specialist, an orthodontist, focuses on helping patients get straight teeth, proper jaw alignment, and strong jawbone structure. 

By choosing an orthodontic specialist, your oral care will be undertaken by someone who is formally trained and have experience in providing specialized dental treatments and procedures that include: 

• Braces installation

• Clear aligner therapy

• Dentofacial orthopedics

• Orthognathic surgery

Braces Installation 

Orthodontic care often involves installing braces for children, teens, and adults. Our orthodontists, Dr. Wood and Dr. Jewett, of Tri-Cities Orthodontics perform orthodontic procedures in Bristol VA, Kingsport and Johnson City TN for patients needing various types of treatment due to the following oral problems: 

• Misplaced, crowded, or missing teeth

• Upper front row teeth overlap lower front row (overbite)

• Lower teeth and jaw protrude ahead of upper front row (underbite)

• Teeth are closer to the cheek or tongue in comparison to the opposing teeth (crossbite)

• Upper row and lower row teeth don’t meet or meet only at certain points

• Excess space or ‘gaps’ between teeth that persist after permanent teeth grow in

• Cheek bites or bites in the roof of the mouth

• Shifting or misaligned jaw

• Teeth wearing unevenly

• Difficulty biting or chewing

• Thumb sucking

• Premature loss of baby teeth

Types of Braces 

Traditional or contemporary braces are dental treatments that can be installed to correct overcrowding, bite problems or jaw misalignment. The orthodontist will do an oral examination and assessment to determine which type of these dental appliances is right for you. Braces choices include traditional braces, ceramic braces, or Invisalign®. They are all durable and functional. 

Traditional Braces: Also known as metal braces, this dental appliance is made from high-quality stainless steel and is durable. Traditional braces make a great option for clients with serious bite problems, and are suitable for all ages. 
Brackets are fixed to the teeth by dental bonding, and they are connected across the front of the teeth with metal wires or elastic bands. These appliances require regular visits with the orthodontist to ensure treatment progresses forward.

Ceramic Braces: Ceramic or clear braces are similar to metal braces in terms of size and shape. They have great cosmetic appeal since their brackets are clear or sometimes tooth colored, allowing them to blend with the teeth. 
These braces also bond to the teeth with dental bonding, similar to metal braces. Some styles carry tooth-colored wires, again for the aesthetics of blending. A big advantage of ceramic braces is how they blend in, and they are harder to notice when a patient smiles. 

Invisalign®: As the name indicates, these are invisible, removable clear aligners that are used to straighten teeth. Our orthodontic specialists will design your treatment plan to change the aligners every 1-2 weeks as your teeth gradually move into the desired position. 

Invisalign® and Invisalign® Teen aligners are popular among adults and teens because these aligners allow patients to have their teeth straightened without anyone really noticing. Unlike traditional braces, this modern orthodontic treatment allows you to eat whatever you want without worrying about food getting stuck in wires and brackets. The aligners can be easily removed before eating, and they allow for easier care of oral hygiene compared to braces.

Dentofacial Orthopedics 

Dentofacial orthopedics is a service we offer to aid the development of healthy facial and jaw bone structure in children as young as 7 or 8. This procedure can also be done in adults, although it is usually more difficult to stimulate and control bone growth in adulthood. After this treatment, abnormalities in the face or jaws can be corrected with braces or orthognathic surgery. 

Dentofacial orthopedics is a specialty that requires an additional 2-3 years of a residency program after dental school. General dentists do not have an orthodontic expertise, and this is why you should consult with a specialist starting as early as age 7 (recommendation of the American Association of Orthodontics) to monitor for proper growth and development. 

Orthognathic Surgery 

Orthognathic surgery, also known as jaw surgery, is among the dental procedures that you can access at our orthodontic practice. This specialized dental procedure is done in clients with severe deformities or abnormalities of the facial or jawbone. Our orthodontists work with specially trained oral and maxillo-facial surgeons to plan and treat orthognathic surgeries.

These malformations usually cause issues chewing, eating, biting or speaking and sometimes affect the patient’s self-esteem. Orthognathic surgery is a great dental treatment for adults with these problems who have missed the opportunity to benefit from dentofacial orthopedics. Braces may also be applied in addition to undergoing surgery. 

When to See an Orthodontists Specialist

The numerous issues faced by individuals with bite problems or jaw abnormalities can affect their oral health and cause them to feel self-conscious and embarrassed. They may get teased by peers, become stressed, or even withdraw socially. 

If you experience these problems, are in good physical health, and have reasonable expectations you may be a good candidate for orthodontic treatment to correct these problems. We have various types of dental treatments that can help restore teeth and jaw functions. You may even enjoy a boost of self-esteem once you are finally able to smile confidently. The American Association of Orthodontics recommends patients find an orthodontic home by age 7.

The Tri-Cities Orthodontics Experience 

Dr. Wood and Dr. Jewett are orthodontists who assist general dentists in Bristol VA, Kingsport and Johnson City TN with helping patients achieve a healthier, happier smile. They have specialty training in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. They use their skills and techniques along with advanced technology and training to provide you with a first class experience. 

During the initial consultation, you will be examined, assessed, and diagnosed before an ideal treatment plan is tailored for you. If you are an adult who missed your opportunity to see an orthodontist as an adolescent, you may still benefit from orthodontic treatment by our specialists.

At Tri-Cities Orthodontics we are serious about correcting malocclusions and brightening the smiles of children, adolescents, and adults. Make the first step to improving the function of your teeth or jaws by calling us to set up a consultation at our respective locations, today!

• Bristol, VA –(276) 642-0043

• Kingsport, TN – (423) 392-9898

• Johnson City, TN – (423) 854-8830