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What are Orthodontists?

Orthodontists diagnose and treat misaligned teeth and jaw problems. They use braces, clear aligners, and other tools. Orthodontists boosts your smile and oral health for life. The treatment even fixes speech issues. A straight bite helps you eat, smile, breath, and speak easily! Dr. Manu Sharma an orthodontist in Fremont Newark area at BirchTree Orthodontics can help you find right treatment for your needs be it Braces or Invisalign.

How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment Take?

Treatment typically takes 6-30 months and is dependent upon age, severity of alignment issues, and the treatment method that is used.

Orthodontists in Fremont: Common Problems Treated & Treatment Guide

Here is a short guide to a long list of treatments that Orthodontists provide

What Orthodontic Problems Do Orthodontists in Fremont Treat?

Orthodontists commonly treat a range of bite and alignment issues with braces, Invisalign or other appliances. The most frequent problems include:

  • Overbite – Upper front teeth overlap excessively over the lower teeth
  • Underbite – Lower teeth sit ahead of the upper teeth
  • Crossbite – Some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when biting
  • Overcrowding – Not enough room for all teeth to fit properly
  • Spacing issues – Gaps or uneven spaces between teeth
  • Spacing issues – Gaps or uneven spaces between teeth
  • Open bite – Front teeth don’t touch when the mouth is closed

Early evaluation (recommended by age 7) allows orthodontists to spot these issues before they become more complex.

Your First Visit to an Orthodontist

The process starts with a thorough exam. At your initial consultation, the orthodontist will:

  • Take digital photographs of your face and smile
  • Capture panoramic and cephalometric X-rays
  • Perform a 3D digital scan (no more messy impressions)

These records are painless and let the orthodontist create a custom treatment plan tailored to your needs. Most patients leave the first visit knowing exactly what treatment is recommended and how long it will take.

Orthodontist vs. General Dentist – Which Is Right for You?

Many patients  ask: “Can my regular dentist do Invisalign, or should I see an orthodontist?” Here’s the difference:

  • General dentists complete dental school (4 years) and can offer Invisalign after additional continuing-education courses. They handle routine dental care and straightforward alignment cases well.
  • Orthodontists are specialists who, after dental school, complete a 2–3 year full-time residency (thousands of additional hours) focused exclusively on moving teeth and correcting bites. Board-certified orthodontists (ABO) have passed rigorous additional exams.
Why Choose an Orthodontist for Invisalign?

Invisalign involves precise tooth movement using clear aligners. Orthodontists’ extra training ensures safer, more effective treatment, reducing risks like improper bite correction. Dentists handle general needs, but for specialized alignment, trust an AAO-certified orthodontist.

For simple crowding or minor spacing, a trained general dentist may be sufficient. For complex bites, jaw misalignment, or cases requiring precise outcomes, most patients achieve better, faster, and more predictable results with a specialist orthodontist. Think of it this way: A family doctor can treat many conditions, but you’d see a cardiologist for heart issues. The same logic applies when choosing between a dentist and an orthodontist for Invisalign or braces. Ready for straighter teeth? Schedule a consultation with an experienced, board-certified orthodontist in Fremont today to discuss your options and get started.

Below is a simple comparison based on guidelines from the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO).

Aspect Dentist Orthodontist
Education Graduates from 4 years of dental school; licensed for general dentistry. Completes 4 years of dental school + 2–3 years of specialized orthodontic residency.
Training Focus Broad oral health: cleanings, fillings, extractions, crowns. 3,700+ hours in tooth movement, jaw alignment, and facial development.
Scope of Practice Overall oral care; may offer basic orthodontics without specialty training. Exclusively bite alignment, crooked teeth, and jaw issues for optimal function and aesthetics.
Invisalign & Aligners Can provide if trained, but lacks specialist expertise for complex cases. More qualified: Expert in custom Invisalign plans, monitoring progress, and handling complications for better results.
When to Choose Routine check-ups, cavities, or general maintenance. Crooked teeth, overbites, or Invisalign — start by age 7 for early detection.