WordGarden.ioorthodontist
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈɔːθədˌɒntɪst/
US
- /ˌɔrθəˈdɑntəst/
Meanings
Noun
a dental specialist who straightens teeth and corrects jaw alignment
Beyond the definition
Have crooked teeth or a bite that does not feel right? That is where an orthodontist comes in. While a regular dentist cleans your teeth and fills cavities, an orthodontist focuses on straightening teeth and helping the jaws line up better. They often use braces, retainers, or clear aligners like Invisalign. They care not only about how your teeth look, but also about how they work together when you chew and speak. If you have ever seen someone wearing braces, there is a good chance this kind of specialist is helping them get a healthier, more confident smile.
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who diagnoses, prevents, and treats irregularities in the teeth and jaws—things like crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and gaps. The word itself comes from the Greek words "orthos" (straight) and "odont" (tooth).
Unlike general dentists who focus on overall oral health, orthodontists undergo several years of additional training after dental school specifically focused on tooth movement and facial structure. They use a variety of tools to achieve alignment, most famously braces—metal brackets and wires that gradually shift teeth into the correct position. However, modern orthodontics also includes clear aligners like Invisalign, retainers (to hold teeth in their new positions), and even appliances used to guide jaw growth in children.
Orthodontic treatment is not just about appearance; it can also help with chewing, speech, and avoiding long-term dental problems that may come from badly aligned teeth. You might be referred to an orthodontist by your regular dentist if they notice a bite issue or misalignment that needs special care. So, if you want a straighter smile and a better bite, an orthodontist is the professional who can help make that happen.
Examples
- 1
Dental referral
My dentist said I should see an orthodontist about my bite.
- 2
Appointment
I have an appointment with the orthodontist next Tuesday.
- 3
Braces adjustment
Her orthodontist tightened her braces this morning.
See also
Similar
- orthodontic specialist
- braces specialist
Shades of meaning
- dentofacial orthopedist
Contrast
- dentist
- oral surgeon
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- see an orthodontist
- orthodontist appointment
- orthodontist referral
- pediatric orthodontist
Word family
- orthodontics
- orthodontic
Explore
- malocclusion
- clear aligners
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- orthodontistnoun
Forms
- orthodontistspluralnoun