Orthodontics Specialists

Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics is the dental specialty focused on alignment of teeth and jaws for improved function and aesthetics. Orthodontists design treatment using fixed braces, clear aligners (Invisalign), retainers, palatal expanders, and surgical orthodontics.

13,207 orthodontists listed on Dental Refer.

Procedures orthodontists perform

  • Traditional Braces
  • Invisalign / Clear Aligners
  • Retainers
  • Palatal Expanders
  • Surgical Orthodontics

When general dentists refer to orthodontists

  • Skeletal discrepancies and malocclusion requiring appliance therapy
  • Interceptive assessment in the mixed dentition
  • Space management before restorative or implant work
  • Impacted canines needing exposure and traction
  • Cases likely to need combined orthodontic and surgical management

Indications describe what this specialty treats. They are not treatment advice for any individual patient — that judgement stays with the treating clinician.

What to include with the referral

  • Intraoral and extraoral photographs
  • Panoramic and cephalometric radiographs if taken
  • The restorative endpoint you have in mind, if there is one
  • Any history of TMD symptoms

What comes back

A treatment plan with records, the appliance approach and an estimated duration, plus the restorative sequencing where the case is joint — most delays in combined cases come from the two practices working to different assumptions about order.

Dental Refer closes that loop in the record rather than by fax: the specialist report returns against the original referral, so the referring practice can see which cases are still open. Read more about how referrals are transmitted and the HIPAA posture behind it.

Professional guidance for this specialty: American Association of Orthodontists

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