An Orthodontist (MDS Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics) is a specialised dental surgeon who diagnoses and corrects crooked teeth, jaw alignment discrepancies, crossbites, and facial asymmetry using braces, clear aligners (Invisalign), and orthopedic appliances.
MDS (3 Years Hospital)
Braces & Aligners
Age 7 Years
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1. Orthodontist vs. General Dentist: What’s the Difference?
All orthodontists are dentists, but only 5% of dentists are certified orthodontists. After completing a 5-year BDS degree, an orthodontist completes a competitive 3-year full-time MDS residency studying craniofacial biology, cephalometrics, and biomechanical forces. They do not do root canals, fillings, or cleanings; their entire practice is dedicated to tooth and jaw realignment.
2. Common Conditions an Orthodontist Treats
| Orthodontic Condition | Clinical Description | Common Treatment Applied |
|---|---|---|
| Dental Crowding | Insufficient jaw space causes teeth to overlap and twist | Braces or aligners ± selective expansion or extraction |
| Diastema (Spacing) | Excessive gaps between teeth | Clear aligners or braces + frenectomy if needed |
| Overjet (Buck Teeth) | Upper front teeth protrude excessively forward | Functional jaw appliances or retraction braces |
| Underbite (Class III) | Lower jaw protrudes forward past upper teeth | Facemask, reverse-pull headgear, or orthognathic surgery |
| Crossbite / Open Bite | Teeth do not meet correctly when chewing | Rapid Palatal Expander (RPE) + fixed brackets |
3. The Critical Role of Post-Treatment Retainers
Once braces or aligners finish moving your teeth, the surrounding periodontal fibres naturally try to pull teeth back to their crooked positions (orthodontic relapse). An orthodontist custom-fabricates fixed lingual retainers or removable Essix clear retainers that must be worn nightly to maintain your straight smile permanently.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can adults see an orthodontist in India?
Yes! Over 40% of orthodontic patients in urban India today are adults aged 20 to 50 seeking discreet clear aligners or ceramic braces.
Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist?
No. You can book an appointment directly with an orthodontist listed in the FindMyDentist directory without a referral.