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45 verified Orthodontists in Baltimore, MD
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
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Availability last updated 04/30/2026
Availability last updated 04/30/2026
Orthodontist
1.00
·1 review
10 mi · 7671 Quarterfield Rd, Ste 400, Glen Burnie, MD 21061
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 20 more
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Dr. Mark Guevarra is a board-certified orthodontist specializing in Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics. With a commitment to excellence, Dr. Guevarra provides a range of services including Clear Aligner Therapy as an Invisalign Diamond Plus Provider. What sets Dr. Guevarra apart is his dedicatio...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, Jun 16
Orthodontist
5.00
·1 review
8.5 mi · 8831 Satyr Hill Rd, Ste 200, Parkville, MD 21234
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 20 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Cathy Wiltshire is a seasoned orthodontist with a passion for crafting beautiful smiles and fostering genuine connections with her patients. Her journey in dentistry began at Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry, where she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. Driven by her dedicati...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jun 22
Orthodontist
5.00
·5 reviews
23 mi · 2003 Rock Spring Rd, Forest Hill, MD 21050
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 20 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Regina Sencak is a skilled dentist with a focus on orthodontics. Her main goal as a specialist is to diagnose, prevent, and correct teeth and jaw irregularities. One of her main responsibilities is to design, produce, or apply orthodontic products to realign teeth and jaws so that normal functio...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 7
Orthodontist
5.00
·3 reviews
- Apr 11, 2026 by Loren H.Click to read more
35.5 mi · 2440 M St NW, Ste 709, Washington, DC 20037
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 33 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
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** Please expect a call and email from the practice after making an appointment to confirm and verify your personal information and insurance information** Dr. Chelesa Phillips, our new orthodontist, who brings with her an inspiring journey, a passion for community, and a deep commitment to provi...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, May 4
Orthodontist
4.44
·55 reviews
Not good experience. My problem isn’t resolved - Nov 18, 2023 by Surya U.Click to read more
39 mi · 901 N Stuart St, Ste 101, Arlington, VA 22203
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 28 more
Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Won Heo grew up in Northern Virginia and attended the University of Virginia. After graduation, he spent a year teaching SATs and AP subjects to high school students. He then earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Pennsylvania, and continued to study orthodontics at S...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Orthodontist
4.38
·55 reviews
Not good experience. My problem isn’t resolved - Nov 18, 2023 by Surya U.Click to read more
39 mi · 901 N Stuart St, Ste 101, Arlington, VA 22203
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 33 more
Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Won Heo grew up in Northern Virginia and attended the University of Virginia. After graduation, he spent a year teaching SATs and AP subjects to high school students. He then earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Pennsylvania, and continued to study orthodontics at S...Click to read more
Next available: tomorrow
Orthodontist
4.75
·116 reviews
Friendly staff and addressed issue quickly with great communication, highly recommend this office for any dental needs. - Jul 9, 2021 by Matt M.Click to read more
41.5 mi · 7641 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22043
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 38 more
Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Berrada graduated from the University of Hassan II Casablanca dental school in 1997 and spent two years working in private practice before joining a post-graduate program in orthodontics at New York University, where she was awarded a Certificate in Orthodontics and remained as a teaching fellow...Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Orthodontist
42 mi · 8605 Westwood Center Dr, Ste 200, Vienna, VA 22182
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 122 more
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Dr. Hamad Burashed, DMD, MMSc Diplomate - American Board of Orthodontics Dual-Trained Specialist: Board-Certified Orthodontist and Prosthodontist. Certificate in Orthodontics, St. Barnabas Hospital New York Certificate in Prosthodontics, Harvard University DMD, Boston University Henry M. Goldman Sch...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, May 4
Orthodontist
42 mi · 1500 Cornerside Blvd, Ste 500, Tysons, VA 22182
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Born and raised in northern Virginia, Dr. Lopez always knew she wanted to serve the Virginia community. She then pursued her dental degree from Howard University College of Dentistry. After eight years in the D.C area, she decided to move to Boston to pursue her orthodontic training at Tufts Univers...Click to read more
Next available: Sat, May 9
Orthodontist
4.93
·14 reviews
Si me gusto la eifa muy limpio la oficina muy organizada muy amable el personal. by ARClick to read more
44.5 mi · 8316 Arlington Blvd, Ste 305, Fairfax, VA 22031
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Alkhunaizi pursued dentistry driven by her passion for both artistry and science, finding fulfillment in the unique intersection of the two. Following her graduation from dental school in 2005, she pursued advanced training in Esthetic Dentistry. During her training in Boston, she presented her ...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, May 4
Orthodontist
5.00
·8 reviews
49 mi · 101 Chesapeake Blvd, Ste A, Elkton, MD 21921
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 20 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Nicholas Branson is a highly skilled orthodontist specializing in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. With a passion for creating beautiful smiles and improving the overall oral health of his patients, Dr. Branson offers a wide range of services aimed at achieving optimal results. As a qua...Click to read more
Orthodontist
4.84
·31 reviews
Dr Suliman is the best, the staff is super friendly and professional. by ABClick to read more
59 mi · 8715 Stonewall Rd, Manassas, VA 20110
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 9 more
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Suliman is a board-certified orthodontist, an accolade shared by only a third of orthodontists. He earned his certificate of advanced graduate study in orthodontics (C.A.G.S) at the Jacksonville University School of Orthodontics, where he also completed his fellowship in orthodontic clinical res...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, May 4
Orthodontist
60.5 mi · 16446 Navigation Drive, Woodbridge, VA 22191
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 30 more
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Dr. Bailey was born on the beautiful island of Trinidad & Tobago in the Caribbean and spent many of her formative years in Ottawa, Canada. Her positive experience as a patient, having worn braces as a teenager, sparked her passion for dentistry and shaped her dream to become an orthodontist. Dr. Ba...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, May 6
Orthodontist
5.00
·29 reviews
Dr Mollov is great and his staff is excellent. Highly recommend! by JAClick to read more
63.5 mi · 10298 Bristow Center Drive, Bristow, VA 20136
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 6 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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Dr. Mollov, originally from Bulgaria, moved to the United States when he was 17. He had to learn an entirely new language and get accustomed to the Western way of living. He attended Wakefield High School in Arlington, VA, where he became valedictorian of his class. Dr. Mollov received his undergrad...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, May 4
Orthodontist
5.00
·6 reviews
I was well attended to and treated with respect. Very clean and elegant clinical setting. - Jul 22, 2025 by Olayiwola O.Click to read more
21 mi · 3905 National Dr, Ste 340, Burtonsville, MD 20866
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 10 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
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NEW PATIENTS PLEASE REVIEW: Your first visit is a complimentary consult to talk through a potential treatment plan. We will discuss pricing and benefits in that initial consult to determine whether orthodontic work can help improve your quality of life. Dr. Callahan applied to and was accepted by H...Click to read more
Orthodontist
29.5 mi · 11175 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20902
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 46 more
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
** All new patients must provider an up to date dental referral & x-ray prior to the visit** Dr. Latoya Callahan, a Georgia native, grew up in Detroit, Michigan. She went on to attend Howard University College of Dentistry, where she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. She completed ...Click to read more
Orthodontist
4.88
·17 reviews
It has been a pleasant experience. The staff is professional and knowledgable about the needs of children of different ages. by CFClick to read more
26 mi · 12316 New Hampshire Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20904
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 16 more
Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
As an orthodontist trained at Howard University, where I earned my Doctor of Dental Surgery, and further specialized at Harvard University with a Certificate in Orthodontics and a Master’s in Medical Sciences, I value the opportunity to be part of creating beautiful smiles for our patients. Most pat...Click to read more
Orthodontist
34 mi · 6931 Arlington Rd, Suite T-200, Bethesda, MD 20814
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 5 more
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Board-Certified Orthodontist with advanced training from the University of Pennsylvania and Montefiore Medical Center. He is also an international faculty member with Align Technology, specializing in clear aligner therapy and innovative orthodontic care.Click to read more
Next available: Tue, May 5
Orthodontist
5.00
·19 reviews
Great service and always looked forward to my appts by LTClick to read more
36.5 mi · 1911 Ft Myer Dr, Ste 101, Arlington, VA 22209
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 20 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Sooyeon Ahn earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree and completed her residency in Orthodontics at the prestigious University of Pennsylvania. She graduated as the top doctor with honors and distinction, receiving several awards, including induction into the national dental honor society, Om...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, May 7
Orthodontist
4.87
·105 reviews
She was nice and straightforward about possible treatment and insurance coverage. Easy peasy! - Mar 11, 2022 by Claire H.Click to read more
43.5 mi · 2841 Hartland Rd, Ste 302, Falls Church, VA 22043
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Donna Chang grew up in Northern Virginia. As a valedictorian from James Madison High School, Dr. Chang attended James Madison University for her undergraduate education where she graduated summa cum laude. In dental school at Virginia Commonwealth University, Dr. Chang discovered her interest in...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, May 4
Orthodontist
5.00
·8 reviews
Excellent customer service, friendly & smooth. by GKClick to read more
48 mi · 10391 Democracy Ln, Ste A, Fairfax, VA 22030
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 12 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Besher Osman graduated in 2017 and completed his Orthodontic residency from University of Pennsylvania. A caring dentist who will work hard towards helping his patients smile with confidence. He is fluent in Arabic and English languages.Click to read more
Next available: Sat, May 2
Orthodontist
4.69
·26 reviews
With my braces on, I start seeing results so quick. Very knowledgeable doctor. by YOClick to read more
51 mi · 135 Robinson Ml Plz, Ste 108, Leesburg, VA 20175
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 18 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
DR. RANGIANI IS OFFERING AN INVISALIGN SUMMER SPECIAL FOR ONLY $4600! Dr. Rangiani is a well-published Orthodontist/scientist who has been providing orthodontic care in the DMV area for more than 5 years. She is friendly and compassionate towards her patients and makes the treatment a fun and pleas...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, May 6
Orthodontist
4.94
·36 reviews
very clean and very professional. Open space and clean sitting area and clean patient areas. by EGClick to read more
21 mi · 3915 National Dr, Suite 150, Burtonsville, MD 20866
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 15 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
*DR. ESI DOES NOT SEE PATIENTS FOR GENERAL DENTISTRY VISITS* I am passionate about creating beautiful, healthy smiles. After earning my Doctor of Dental Surgery from Columbia University and completing my residency in Orthodontics at Howard University, I have dedicated my career to helping patients ...Click to read more
Orthodontist
4.71
·28 reviews
awesome staff very knowledgeable and they dress very professional loving the vibe in this office ?? - Nov 24, 2020 by Ebony P.Click to read more
33 mi · 4405 E W Hwy, #102, Bethesda, MD 20814
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 22 more
Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Wayne Hickory is an orthodontist. He works at Evenly, with its offices situated across various locations in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC. He provides treatment for conditions such as overbite, underbite, crooked teeth, and gapped teeth. Dr. Hickory received his dental degree and compl...Click to read more
Orthodontist
41 mi · 3400 Payne St, Ste 200, Falls Church, VA 22041
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna
Accepting new patients
Orthodontist
5.00
·2 reviews
Sin duda la mejor de todas la Dra super amable y muy profesional,respondio a todas mis preguntas y dudas que tenia en cuanto al tratamiento. by AGMClick to read more
42 mi · 6565 Arlington Blvd, Ste 501, Falls Church, VA 22042
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 7 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
A native of Northern Virginia, Dr. Sybil Jones grew up in Loudoun County. For her dental education, she remained at Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry, where she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. While in dental school, Dr. Jones was deeply involved in community service and mentor...Click to read more
Orthodontist
5.00
·17 reviews
Dr Ammar is a great orthodontist The cases that he treated are phenomenal I highly recommend him by NRCClick to read more
42 mi · 6565 Arlington Blvd, Ste 501, Falls Church, VA 22042
Accepts Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield, Cigna + 7 more
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
The first thing you will notice about Dr. Ammar when you enter our practice is his genuine enthusiasm and passion for the orthodontic field and his patients. Dr. Ammar makes it a personal goal to bring every single patient that joins the Elite Family the smile of their dreams by utilizing his expert...Click to read more
Orthodontist
5.00
·11 reviews
Excelente servicio por parte de la doctora cruz, me encanta el amor que tiene por su trabajo y lo bien que lo hace. by BRClick to read more
44.5 mi · 311 Maple Ave W, Ste J, Vienna, VA 22180
Accepts Delta Dental
Also offers video visits · Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Claudia Cruz is a bilingual, board-eligible, certified orthodontist dedicated to crafting smiles that work best for the unique biology and lifestyle of each patient. She is exceptionally trained in the latest techniques and advancements in both conventional and cutting-edge treatments in orthodo...Click to read more
Other providers
Availability last updated 04/30/2026
Availability last updated 04/30/2026
Orthodontist
5510 mi · 5632 the Alameda, Baltimore, MD 21239
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Mamata Mukkara, DMD is a Orthodontist in Baltimore, MD. Their office is located in 5632 the Alameda, Baltimore, MD.Click to read more
Orthodontist
5510 mi · 6304 Kenwood Ave, Rosedale, MD 21237
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
John Brummer, DDS is a Orthodontist in Rosedale, MD. Their office is located in 6304 Kenwood Ave, Rosedale, MD.Click to read more
Orthodontist
5510 mi · 6666 Security Blvd, Gwynn Oak, MD 21207
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Olwyn Diamond, DDS is a Orthodontist in Gwynn Oak, MD and Baltimore, MD. Their offices are located in 6666 Security Blvd, Gwynn Oak, MD and 2835 Smith Ave B, Baltimore, MD.Click to read more
Orthodontist
5510 mi · 7211 Park Heights Ave, Pikesville, MD 21208
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Moshe Stern, DDS is a Orthodontist in Pikesville, MD and Baltimore, MD. Their offices are located in 7211 Park Heights Ave, Pikesville, MD and 2504 Willow Glen Dr, Baltimore, MD.Click to read more
Orthodontist
5510 mi · 8406 Harford Rd, Parkville, MD 21234
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Robert Isaacs, DDS is a Orthodontist in Parkville, MD and Baltimore, MD. Their offices are located in 8406 Harford Rd, Parkville, MD and 4301 Ebenezer Rd, Baltimore, MD.Click to read more
Orthodontist
5510 mi · 1134 N Rolling Rd, Catonsville, MD 21228
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Lawrence Wang, DDS is a Orthodontist in Catonsville, MD and Ellicott City, MD. Their offices are located in 1134 N Rolling Rd, Catonsville, MD and 10045 Baltimore National Pike A1, Ellicott City, MD.Click to read more
Orthodontist
5510 mi · 4301 Ebenezer Rd, Baltimore, MD 21236
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Jessie Henry, DDS is a Orthodontist in Baltimore, MD. Their offices are located in 2011 Gough St, Baltimore, MD and 4301 Ebenezer Rd, Baltimore, MD.Click to read more
Orthodontist
5510 mi · 109 Old Padonia Rd, Cockeysville, MD 21030
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Stuart Sheer, DDS is a Orthodontist in Cockeysville, MD and Mount Airy, MD. Their offices are located in 109 Old Padonia Rd, Cockeysville, MD and 602 Center St 203, Mount Airy, MD.Click to read more
Orthodontist
5510 mi · 12209 Tullamore Rd, Lutherville Timonium, MD 21093
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Mohammad Izadidehkordi, DDS is a Orthodontist in Lutherville Timonium, MD and Potomac, MD. Their offices are located in 12209 Tullamore Rd, Lutherville Timonium, MD and 11400 Lake Potomac Dr, Potomac, MD.Click to read more
Orthodontist
5510 mi · 10282 Baltimore National Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21042
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Michael Pantos, DMD is a Orthodontist in Ellicott City, MD. Their office is located in 10282 Baltimore National Pike, Ellicott City, MD.Click to read more
Orthodontist
5510 mi · 22 Truck House Rd, 4, Severna Park, MD 21146
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Perry Bonner, DDS is a Orthodontist in Severna Park, MD. Their office is located in 22 Truck House Rd 4, Severna Park, MD.Click to read more
Orthodontist
5510 mi · 1215 Annapolis Rd, 207, Odenton, MD 21113
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Robert Winnard, DMD is a Orthodontist in Odenton, MD. Their office is located in 1215 Annapolis Rd 207, Odenton, MD.Click to read more
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Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with an Orthodontist in Baltimore?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for an Orthodontist in Baltimore, book an appointment, and see the Orthodontist within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Orthodontists in Baltimore who accept your insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find a Baltimore Orthodontist who takes my insurance?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Baltimore Orthodontist who takes your insurance. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with an Orthodontist in Baltimore?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find Orthodontists in Baltimore and book appointments instantly. You can search for Baltimore Orthodontists by symptom or visit reason. Then, choose your insurance plan. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Orthodontist in Baltimore?

When you search for Baltimore Orthodontists on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see Orthodontists in Baltimore who match your preferences.


How can I find a Baltimore Orthodontist who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for Baltimore Orthodontists with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated Orthodontist in Baltimore?

You can use Zocdoc to find Orthodontists in Baltimore who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with an Orthodontist online in Baltimore?

Orthodontists in Baltimore on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Orthodontists who offer video visits.


Are video visits with an Orthodontist online covered by my insurance?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Orthodontists in Baltimore who accept your insurance for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find an Orthodontist in Baltimore who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for an Orthodontist who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find an Orthodontist in Baltimore who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for Orthodontists in Baltimore. Many Orthodontists offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


Who are orthodontists?

Orthodontists are dental specialists highly trained in correcting the misalignment of the teeth and jaws. They can help correct dental issues, including crowded or crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, and gaps between teeth. Orthodontic treatment can involve braces, clear aligners, retainers, and other specialized devices to shift teeth into their correct positions and improve the function and appearance of a person's smile. Orthodontists work closely with general dentists and other dental specialists to ensure that patients obtain comprehensive care for their dental needs.


If misaligned teeth or jaws are causing dental issues for you or a loved one, consider scheduling a consultation with an orthodontist near you. They can evaluate your ailment and recommend the best treatment to enhance your oral health and give you a beautiful smile.


Education and medical training of orthodontists

An orthodontist's education and medical training are rigorous and embody metabolism functions and clinical experience. After completing a bachelor's degree, aspiring orthodontists must attend a four-year dental school program. Once they have graduated from dental school, a residency program in orthodontics is essential. This residency program typically lasts two to three years and provides doctors with advanced training in orthodontics. 


During the residency program, orthodontists learn about diagnosing and treating various dental and facial irregularities, including misaligned teeth and jaws. They discover how to use orthodontic appliances, such as braces and aligners, to correct these irregularities and improve patients' oral health and facial aesthetics.


Additionally, orthodontists must pass a written and clinical examination to become board-certified. Board certification signifies an orthodontist's high competency level and commitment to offering quality care to patients. Continuing education is also essential for orthodontists to stay current with the recent advancements and maintain their certification. 

Many orthodontists attend conferences, workshops, and other educational events to keep up-to-date with new technologies and techniques.


Why should you visit an orthodontist?

One should visit an orthodontist if they require repositioning their jaw or teeth. Along with these, there are several other issues that an orthodontist can treat, such as

  • Protruding front teeth - If one has protruding front teeth, the doctor can help improve them cosmetically and protect teeth from damage during injuries or falls. 
  • Crowding - If one has a small jaw, the space may not be enough for the teeth to grow adequately. Orthodontists perform procedures like removing a few teeth to make space if needed.
  • Impacted teeth - One-half of the teeth are affected in the gum tissue, indicating an incomplete eruption.
  • Crossbite - When one or more upper teeth do not maintain the gap and come down right on the lower teeth, which leads to clenched teeth.


What types of treatments do orthodontists provide?

Before visiting an orthodontist near you, it can be beneficial to understand how an orthodontist can help you and the treatment methods they can offer. Orthodontists specialize in correcting dental misalignments, aiming not only for cosmetic improvement but also to enhance oral function and protect teeth from potential issues. They employ various dental appliances to achieve these goals. Some treatments offered by orthodontists are - 

  • Fixed-space maintainers - These are utilized to prevent adjacent teeth from shifting into the space left by a lost baby tooth until the adult tooth emerges. A band is attached to one tooth, and a wire connecting it to another helps maintain the space between teeth.
  • Braces - A common orthodontic treatment consisting of brackets, wires, and bands. The bands are anchors secured around teeth, while brackets attach to the front. Arch-shaped wires pass through brackets, creating tension that gradually repositions teeth. Monthly adjustments are made during follow-up visits, and the treatment duration varies.
  • Aligners - A discreet alternative for adults that are easily removable while eating, flossing, or cleaning teeth. These invisible trays are worn for a few weeks before switching to a new one.
  • Palatal expander - A palatal expander targets the upper jaw, applying pressure through screws to widen the arch. This plastic plate, secured to the palate, encourages outward growth of the bones' joints.
  • Headgear - This consists of a strap at the back of the head connected to a metal wire or face bow in the front. It aims to maintain the position of back teeth, pull back front teeth, and impede upper jaw growth.
  • Retainers - They are used post-treatment to prevent teeth from reverting to their previous positions and discourage thumb-sucking in children. Overall, orthodontic interventions contribute to aesthetic improvements and play a crucial role in optimizing oral function and safeguarding dental health.


Malocclusion of teeth and its treatment

Malocclusion refers to improper positioning of the teeth. It can result in chewing problems and might also cause clenching if left untreated. Some examples of malocclusions are crowded teeth, crossbite, overbite, underbite, and open bite. A person with perfectly aligned teeth typically has no crowding or spacing issues. Usually, upper jaw teeth will slightly overlap the lower jaw teeth when closing the mouth. It is imperative to resolve these issues as soon as possible.

Preventing malocclusions is difficult as most malocclusions are hereditary. Environmental factors like pacifiers and bottle feeding for over three years can also influence the growth and development of the teeth and jaw. Practices like thumbsucking should also be limited. Early detection and the right treatment of the ailment will also prevent severity. Depending on the type and severity, malocclusion is classified into three major types -

  • Class 1 - Crowding or spacing issues (most common)
  • Class 2 - Severe overbite (upper teeth overlap the lower teeth) 
  • Class 3 - Severe underbite (lower teeth overlap the upper teeth)

Depending on the severity and type, an orthodontist will recommend various treatments like braces, retainers, removal of teeth, reshaping, bonding, capping, etc. For proper diagnosis and treatment of malocclusion or any other orthodontic issue, seeking the expertise of an orthodontist near you is the best course of action.


Orthodontist vs. Dentist: Understanding the key differences

While both orthodontists and dentists are dental professionals who focus on oral health, the two have some key differences.


Dentists typically provide a wide range of general dental services, including routine checkups, cleanings, fillings, extractions, and root canals. However, their primary focus is on preventing and treating dental problems related to teeth, gums, and other soft tissues in the mouth.

On the other hand, orthodontists specialize in diagnosing and preventing dental and facial irregularities, such as misaligned teeth, bite problems, and jaw abnormalities. They use orthodontic appliances like braces and aligners to straighten teeth, correct bites, and improve facial aesthetics.

Another significant difference is the scope of their practice. While dentists offer various dental services, orthodontists primarily focus on orthodontic treatment. They work closely with dentists to offer comprehensive dental care, but their practice focuses on orthodontic treatment.


What to expect at your first orthodontic appointment

Your first visit to the orthodontist near you is an essential step in beginning your journey toward a healthier, more aligned smile. This appointment aims to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals. Here's an overview of what typically happens during this visit.  

Introduction and paperwork  

When you arrive at the orthodontic office, the staff will welcome you and provide any necessary forms if you haven't completed them online. This paperwork collects important details like your dental and medical history, personal preferences, and concerns about your teeth or jaw.

Initial examination  

Once the paperwork is done, you'll meet the orthodontist to examine your teeth, jaw, and bite thoroughly. This step is crucial for identifying misalignment, overcrowding, or bite problems. To obtain a detailed view, your orthodontist may use diagnostic tools, including X-rays, photographs, or digital scans.

Discussion  

After the examination, the orthodontist will review their findings and explain any issues they observe. You'll learn about the potential treatments available, including options like braces or aligners. This step is the perfect opportunity to ask questions about the process, expected outcomes, or how long treatment might take. A skilled orthodontist near you will ensure you feel informed and confident about your care.  

Customized treatment plan  

The doctor will make a specialized treatment plan using the examination results and your input. This plan outlines the recommended approach, the appliances to be used, and the anticipated duration of treatment. It also includes details about expected results and any challenges or risks that may arise during the process.  

Financial discussion  

The orthodontic team will then discuss the financial aspects of your treatment. This step includes a breakdown of costs, available payment options, insurance coverage, and any discounts or payment plans. This step ensures you fully understand the financial commitment before moving forward.  

Scheduling  

Once you agree on a treatment plan and payment arrangements, you'll schedule your next appointment. This could be for placing braces, receiving aligners, or further assessments. Scheduling begins your orthodontic journey, bringing you one step closer to your ideal smile.  

Follow-up visits  

Depending on the complexity of your treatment plan, you'll need regular follow-ups to monitor your progress. These visits allow the specialist to make necessary changes and ensure your treatment stays on track. Choosing an orthodontist near you makes these appointments more convenient and ensures consistent, accessible care throughout your treatment.  


Find highly skilled orthodontists near you

Malocclusions require immediate attention from orthodontists to prevent them from becoming severe and avoid any difficulty in the future. Orthodontists must also check the devices used for the treatment to identify improvement. All of these require frequent visits to specialists. Do you need help finding a top-rated orthodontist in Baltimore, Maryland? Look no further! Our team of orthodontic specialists provide top-quality care.


Booking appointments and getting the right doctor is very important, as the wrong use of dental devices can cause more problems. However, long queues make it tough to get appointments on time. Zocdoc provides a platform where you can easily book appointments just by searching for the condition you're suffering from. It saves time and spares you the hassle of waiting in queues. Zocdoc, along with providing safe and secure appointment bookings, also provides you with all the information you might require to decide on the specialist you want to go with. The doctor's profile mentions vital information such as their educational background, board certification, professional experience, and spoken language. You also get to access the doctor's public ratings and reviews, which will give you an idea about your experience with the specialist.


Schedule appointments with highly skilled orthodontists near you in Baltimore, Maryland, to achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you've always wanted.


If your insurance plan isn't shown on Zocdoc, you can upload a photo of your medical insurance card. Zocdoc will scan the image to determine and display your probable plan. This service is available only for medical insurance cards, not vision or dental. If you face difficulties uploading the card's image, you can contact Zocdoc's support team for help. For further information, log on to the Zocdoc patient help center page

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Orthodontic statistics in Maryland

According to the 2017 Orthodontic Workforce Report by the American Association of Orthodontists, 10,658 orthodontists were practicing in the USA in 2017, around 3.27 per 100,000 population. Since 2001, there has been a 15% increase in professionally active orthodontists in the USA. It is also stated that approximately 33% of orthodontists hold certification from the American Board of Orthodontics.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Maryland employed 540 orthodontists in 2021. As per the National Library of Medicine, the state also boasts the highest employment of orthodontists in the USA. Additionally, the percentage of children receiving orthodontic treatments has increased over the last decade. The rate of children receiving dental sealants has increased from 33.8% to 42.8%, concluding that Maryland has made progress in providing oral health care to children.


Sources

Healthline

Medical News Today[1]

Medical News Today[2]

The American Academy of Oral Medicine

Ontario Association of Orthodontists

Colgate

American Association Orthodontics

National Institutes of Health

American Association of Orthodontists

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.

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