Key Takeaways
- Orthodontists complete 2-3 years of specialized residency training after dental school, focusing entirely on tooth movement, jaw alignment, and bite correction—expertise that general dentists don't possess.
- Orthodontists can guide jaw growth in children through strategic use of appliances like palatal expanders during critical developmental windows, potentially preventing more complex problems later.
- Modern orthodontists use advanced technology including 3D digital imaging and computer-aided treatment planning to achieve precise results, reduce discomfort, and speed up the overall treatment process.
- Orthodontists treat patients of all ages—not just children—and adult orthodontics is one of the fastest-growing areas, with clear aligners offering discreet options for working professionals.
- Proper orthodontic treatment improves oral function and long-term health by making teeth easier to clean, reducing cavity and gum disease risk, and correcting bite issues that affect chewing and speech.
- Retainer use after treatment is critical for maintaining results, as skipping retainers is one of the biggest mistakes patients make—orthodontists prescribe and monitor specific retainer protocols for long-term success.
Most people think orthodontists just put on braces and call it a day. But there's so much more going on behind the scenes! If you've ever wondered what do orthodontists do beyond straightening teeth, you're in for a pleasant surprise. Whether you're a parent considering treatment for your child, a teen curious about braces, or an adult thinking about adult orthodontics, understanding what your orthodontist actually does can help you get the most out of your care.
Orthodontists are highly trained dental specialists who go through 2–3 extra years of focused residency training after dental school. That means they spend their entire careers focused on one thing: making sure your teeth, jaws, and bite work together beautifully. Let's break down everything an orthodontist really does — and why it matters for your health and smile.
What Makes an Orthodontist Different from a Dentist?
This is one of the most common questions people ask, and it's a great one! Both dentists and orthodontists go to dental school. But orthodontists take it a step further. After graduating from dental school, they complete an additional 2–3 years in an accredited orthodontic residency program. This extra training focuses entirely on tooth movement, jaw development, and bite correction.
General dentists handle cleanings, fillings, and basic oral health. Orthodontists are the specialists you see when your teeth are crowded, your bite is off, or your jaw needs guidance. Think of it like the difference between a family doctor and a cardiologist — both are doctors, but one specializes in a very specific area.
| Feature | General Dentist | Orthodontist |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Training After Dental School | None required | 2–3 years of residency |
| Main Focus | Overall oral health | Tooth and jaw alignment |
| Provides Braces/Aligners | Sometimes (limited) | Yes — it's their specialty |
| Treats Bite Issues | Rarely | Yes — core part of the job |
| Monitors Jaw Growth | No | Yes |
15 Things Orthodontists Do That Might Surprise You
1. Diagnose Malocclusions (Bad Bites)
The word malocclusion simply means your teeth don't bite together the way they should. Orthodontists are trained to spot and treat all types of bad bites. These include overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. Left untreated, a bad bite can cause problems with eating, speaking, and long-term dental health. You can learn more about when to see an orthodontist for an overbite and what that process looks like.
2. Take Comprehensive Records
Before any treatment begins, your orthodontist collects detailed information. This usually includes X-rays, photographs, and digital impressions of your teeth. These records help create a clear picture of your current bite and what needs to change. At modern practices like Torres Orthodontics, digital impressions and 3D imaging make this process faster and more comfortable than ever.
3. Create Customized Treatment Plans
No two smiles are alike, and no two treatment plans should be either. Orthodontists analyze all the records they collect and design a plan that fits your specific needs. This plan outlines which appliances will be used, how long treatment will take, and what results you can expect. Preparing for your first orthodontist appointment can help you feel confident walking in.
4. Prescribe and Fit Braces
Traditional metal braces are still one of the most effective tools orthodontists use. They apply gentle, consistent pressure to move teeth into the right positions over time. Orthodontists carefully place each bracket and wire to guide teeth along a specific path. They also have options like clear ceramic braces for patients who want a less noticeable look.
5. Fit and Monitor Clear Aligners
Clear aligners have become hugely popular, especially among adults and teens. Orthodontists prescribe custom-made aligner trays that gradually shift teeth without wires or brackets. This is one of the most searched topics in orthodontics right now — and for good reason! Check out clear aligners and Invisalign to see how they work and whether they might be right for you.
6. Guide Jaw Growth in Children
This is one of the most powerful things orthodontists do that most people don't realize. In younger patients, an orthodontist can actually guide how the jaw grows. By using appliances like palatal expanders during key growth windows, they can create more space, prevent impacted teeth, and reduce the need for more complex treatment later. Learn more about expanders for teeth and what parents need to know.
7. Provide Early Orthodontic Treatment
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic visit around age 7. Why so early? Because orthodontists can spot problems before they get worse. Early treatment (also called Phase 1 treatment) can correct issues while the jaw is still developing. Explore more about orthodontics for kids and why timing matters so much.
8. Treat Adults of All Ages
There's absolutely no age limit on a great smile! Orthodontists treat a growing number of adults every year. In fact, if you're curious about the trend, check out why so many adults are getting braces in 2026. Adults often prefer adult orthodontics options like clear aligners for a more discreet experience.
9. Correct Crowded and Spaced Teeth
Crowding happens when there isn't enough room for all your teeth to fit properly. Spacing issues happen when there's too much room. Both can affect your oral hygiene and your confidence. Orthodontists use braces or aligners to solve these problems beautifully. If you're dealing with crowding, learn how an orthodontist can fix crowded teeth and what your options are.
10. Use Advanced Imaging Technology
Modern orthodontists rely on cutting-edge technology to plan and monitor treatment. 3D dental imaging, digital X-rays, and computer-aided treatment planning allow for extremely precise results. This technology also reduces discomfort and speeds up the overall process. Discover how 3D dental imaging improves orthodontic treatment outcomes.
11. Coordinate with Oral Surgeons
Some bite issues are so complex that they require jaw surgery to correct. In these cases, an orthodontist works closely with an oral surgeon to make sure teeth and jaws align properly before and after the procedure. The orthodontist handles the tooth alignment part, while the surgeon handles the skeletal repositioning. It's true teamwork for complex cases.
12. Fit Retainers After Treatment
Once your braces or aligners are done, your teeth need help staying in their new positions. That's where retainers come in. Orthodontists prescribe and fit retainers to hold your results long-term. Skipping your retainer is one of the biggest mistakes you can make after treatment. Read up on orthodontic retainers and what retainers do after braces or aligners.
13. Monitor Progress Through Regular Checkups
Orthodontic treatment isn't a one-time appointment. Your orthodontist monitors your progress at regular intervals — usually every 6 to 8 weeks. These checkups allow them to make adjustments, check the health of your teeth and gums, and keep treatment on track. Most treatments take between 12 and 24 months, depending on complexity.
14. Improve Oral Function and Health
Straight teeth aren't just about looks. When your teeth are properly aligned, they're easier to clean, which reduces your risk of cavities and gum disease. A corrected bite also helps you chew and speak more comfortably. Orthodontic treatment genuinely improves your long-term oral health — not just your smile's appearance.
15. Boost Your Confidence and Quality of Life
Let's not overlook the emotional side of orthodontic care. A straight, healthy smile can transform how you feel about yourself. Many patients report feeling more confident at school, at work, and in social situations after treatment. That's a benefit you really can't put a price on — though if you're curious about costs, you can check out how much braces cost to plan ahead.
The 4 Stages of Orthodontic Treatment
Understanding the process makes the whole journey feel less overwhelming. Here's how orthodontic treatment typically unfolds:
- Evaluation: Your orthodontist takes X-rays, photographs, and impressions to understand your current bite and jaw structure.
- Treatment Planning: Based on the evaluation, a personalized treatment plan is created, including which appliances will be used and the estimated timeline.
- Active Treatment: This is the phase where your teeth are actively moving. Braces, aligners, or other appliances are used and adjusted regularly.
- Retention: After active treatment ends, retainers help keep your teeth in their corrected positions permanently.
| Stage | What Happens | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Evaluation | X-rays, photos, digital impressions | 1–2 appointments |
| Treatment Planning | Customized plan created | 1 appointment |
| Active Treatment | Moving teeth with braces or aligners | 12–24 months average |
| Retention | Wearing retainers to hold results | Ongoing (lifelong) |
Common Appliances Orthodontists Use
Here's a quick look at the tools orthodontists rely on to correct your smile:
- Metal Braces: The classic option — highly effective for a wide range of cases
- Ceramic Braces: Tooth-colored brackets that blend with your smile
- Clear Aligners: Removable, nearly invisible trays custom-made for your teeth
- Palatal Expanders: Widens the upper jaw to create more space for teeth
- Retainers: Hold teeth in position after active treatment ends
- Functional Appliances: Guide jaw growth and correct bite issues in children
Who Should See an Orthodontist?
Orthodontic treatment is for everyone — not just kids with crooked teeth! Here are signs that it's time to schedule a visit:
- Your child's baby teeth fell out too early or too late
- Teeth are visibly crowded, spaced, or crooked
- You notice an overbite, underbite, or crossbite
- You or your child has difficulty chewing or biting food
- There's jaw pain, clicking, or discomfort
- You feel self-conscious about your smile
If any of these sound familiar, it's a great time to get an evaluation. Follow us on Instagram @torresortho for tips, patient stories, and smile transformations that might inspire your next step!
The Orthodontist's Role at Different Life Stages
| Life Stage | Common Issues Treated | Common Appliances |
|---|---|---|
| Children (ages 6–10) | Jaw development, early crowding, crossbites | Expanders, partial braces |
| Pre-Teens (ages 10–12) | Crowding, spacing, bite problems | Braces, functional appliances |
| Teenagers (ages 13–18) | Crowding, bad bites, alignment issues | Metal braces, clear aligners |
| Adults (18+) | Spacing, relapse, jaw pain, aesthetics | Clear aligners, ceramic braces |
Why Choosing a Specialist Matters
When it comes to moving teeth and correcting bites, experience and specialized training make a huge difference. An orthodontist's entire career is focused on this one area of dentistry. That level of expertise means you get more precise results, fewer complications, and a treatment plan that truly fits your needs.
At Torres Orthodontics, led by Dr. Rodney Torres, patients across Tampa, Miami Lakes, and Boca Raton experience that difference firsthand. From the very first free consultation to the final retainer fitting, the team is committed to making you feel informed, comfortable, and excited about your smile journey. You can visit us on Google — Torres Orthodontics Tampa to read real patient reviews and see why so many families trust us with their smiles.
Follow along with our community on Facebook @torresortho and check out smile transformations on our YouTube channel to see the real results our patients love.
Take the First Step Toward a Healthier Smile
Now you know the full picture of what do orthodontists do — and it's a lot more than just braces! From guiding jaw growth in children to fitting discreet clear aligners for adults, orthodontists play a vital role in your long-term health and confidence. The earlier you start, the more options you have and the easier treatment tends to be.
Whether you're a parent looking into orthodontics for kids, a teen exploring options, or an adult ready to finally do something about your smile, there's never been a better time to get started. Don't wait to take that next step — schedule your free smile exam at a Torres Orthodontics location near you and let's talk about what's possible for your smile!
FAQs
Q: What is the difference between an orthodontist and a general dentist?
A: Great question! Both start with the same dental degree, but an orthodontist completes an extra 2–3 years of specialized residency training focused entirely on tooth movement, jaw alignment, and bite correction. Your dentist keeps your teeth healthy — your orthodontist makes sure they're straight and properly aligned!
Q: Do orthodontists only treat children, or do they treat adults too?
A: Orthodontists treat patients of all ages — and adult orthodontics is one of the fastest-growing areas in the field right now! Whether you're 8 or 58, it's never too late to improve your smile. Many adults today are choosing clear aligners for a discreet, effective option that fits their lifestyle.
Q: How long does orthodontic treatment typically take?
A: Treatment time varies depending on the complexity of your case, but most patients complete active treatment in 12 to 24 months. Simple cases may be shorter, while more complex bite issues can take longer. Your orthodontist will give you a personalized timeline during your initial evaluation!
Q: Can orthodontists fix jaw pain and bite problems without surgery?
A: In many cases, yes! Orthodontists use braces, clear aligners, and functional appliances to correct bite issues without surgery. Surgery is only recommended for more severe skeletal problems where appliances alone can't achieve the desired result. Your orthodontist will always start by exploring the most conservative options first.
Q: What happens after orthodontic treatment is finished?
A: Once active treatment ends, your orthodontist will fit you with a retainer to keep your teeth in their new positions. Wearing your retainer as instructed is super important — it protects all the hard work you and your orthodontist put into your smile! Retainers may be removable or fixed behind your teeth, depending on your needs.
