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Dr. Paul O'Connell Explains Orthodontic Consultations At 3Dental - Orthodontics
Dr. Paul O'Connell Explains Orthodontic Consultations At 3Dental - Orthodontics
Did you know, around 33% of children need orthodontic treatment at some point? But what exactly does an orthodontist do, and why is their job so important for our smiles, self-esteem, and overall health?
This article provides a comprehensive overview of orthodontists, detailing their roles, the treatments they offer, and the benefits of orthodontic care.
What Is An Orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a fully qualified dentist who chooses to enter into a three-year postgraduate programme that allows them to specialise in orthodontics treatment. Orthodontists diagnose and treat alignment issues in the teeth and jaws, fixing bite function and straightening teeth.
A specialist orthodontic practice will identify problems and develop a treatment plan to enhance your overall dental health, giving you a beautiful smile.
Here’s A Closer Look At What Orthodontists Do:
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Christina Ryan Testimonial - Orthodontics
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Dr.Sandra Montano - Orthodontist - 3Dental
- Diagnosis and treatment planning: Orthodontists use various diagnostic tools such as X-rays, photographs, and digital scans of your mouth to create detailed treatment plans. They assess your dental and facial structure to determine the best action for optimal alignment and bite for you.
- Application of orthodontic devices: They apply braces, clear braces and aligners and other devices designed to move your teeth or hold them in place. This part of the job requires precision and a deep understanding of how different forces affect tooth movement and jaw development.
- Monitoring progress: Throughout your treatment, orthodontists monitor the progress of your teeth movement and make adjustments to your orthodontic devices as needed. This helps ensure your treatment goals are met within the expected timeframe.
- Patient education: Orthodontists also advise about how to care for your orthodontic devices and maintain good oral hygiene during your treatment.
- Collaboration with other dental professionals: In cases where you might require multi-faceted dental treatment, orthodontists collaborate with other dental professionals to ensure you receive the comprehensive care you need.
Orthodontist Vs. Dentist: What's The Difference?
Orthodontists and dentists both focus on oral care, but they serve different roles in dental health. While all orthodontists are dentists, not all dentists are orthodontists.
Dentists provide general dental care, while orthodontists are specialised in managing the alignment of teeth and jaws.
Dentists
- After earning a general dental degree, dentists are qualified to diagnose and treat various oral health issues. This includes cavities, gum diseases, root canals, and preventive care.
Orthodontists
- Orthodontists start as dentists and then undergo additional specialised training (usually two to three years) in an accredited orthodontic programme. Their specialisation focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities. This includes fitting
braces, clear aligners, retainers, and other corrective devices.
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What Are The Signs That I Might Need Orthodontic Treatment?
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Sean Fitz's Smile Transformation
- 6 Month BracesSigns that you might need to see an orthodontist include crowded or crooked teeth, gaps between teeth, and noticeable overbite or underbite:
If your teeth are crowded, crooked, misaligned or misplaced, an orthodontist can determine the best treatment options to straighten the teeth and align your bite.
If you experience jaw pain, clicking, or popping of the jaw joint (TMJ disorders), an orthodontist can assess your bite and jaw alignment to see if orthodontic treatment can alleviate these symptoms.
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If you have large gaps between teeth that affect the aesthetics of your smile and the function of your teeth, orthodontic treatment can close these gaps and distribute your teeth evenly along your jawline.
If you have an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite, these can lead to difficulty in speaking and eating, and in some cases, can cause facial asymmetry.
If you're self-conscious about your smile or the alignment of your teeth, an orthodontist can provide options to enhance your smile through braces, clear aligners, or other corrective methods.
Remember, it's never too late to visit an orthodontist. The majority of our clients are adults seeking orthodontic treatment for cosmetic reasons or to correct long-standing dental issues.
Meet Your Orthodontic Team
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Dr Paul O'Connell
Practice Limited to Orthodontics
Read Bio)
Dr Paul O'Connell
Bachelor Dent. Sc. (Trinity College Dublin) 2004
Practice Limited to Orthodontics
Dr. O’Connell studied dentistry at Trinity College in Dublin, graduating in 2004. Prior to this, he studied and worked as a pharmacist.
Paul has also run his own highly successful dental surgery for over ten years in Limerick city and carries with him a wide range of knowledge and experience in all fields of dentistry.
Paul has trained extensively throughout Europe and the USA, learning various aspects of dentistry, most notably short-term and comprehensive orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry and endodontics (root canals).
He studied endodontics at the prestigious Eastman clinic, University College in London and Manchester University, before moving on to study at the top dental cosmetic clinics in Harley street, as well as abroad in Italy.
He trains constantly to improve his knowledge and skills in advanced dental techniques and enjoys applying them to help his patients get the very best in dental care.
Find out more about Paul O'Connell's role at 3Dental on his author page.
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Dr Paula Taracido
Practice Limited to Orthodontics
Read BioDr Paula Taracido
Bachelor Dent. Sc. (University of Santiago de Compostela (Galicia, Spain)) 2013
Practice Limited to Orthodontics
Paula graduated from the University of Santiago de Compostela (Galicia, Spain) in 2013 with a bachelor's degree in Dental Science.
She moved to Ireland in 2014 and has worked in private practices since then, maturing her skills in all areas of dentistry.
Since then, she developed a special interest in Orthodontics and enrolled in a 3-year masters in Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopaedics by the IDEOD institute in Seville, where she also became an Invisalign provider.
She joined the 3Dental team in 2017.
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Dr Sandra Montano
Specialist Orthodontist
Read BioDr Sandra Montano
Bachelor of Dental Science (BDS), University College Cork, Ireland. Master’s Degree in Orthodontics, Barcelona University, Spain. Postgraduate Certificate, Orthodontics and Orthopaedic Growth. PhD, TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) and Occlusion. Postgraduate Degree, Orofacial Pain and Temporomandibular Disorders.
Specialist Orthodontist
Dr Sandra Montano is a renowned Specialist Orthodontist, duly registered in both Ireland and Spain.
Excelling academically, Dr Montano distinguished herself as the top student of her year in dentistry, leading to an invitation to undertake a rigorous four-year full-time specialist training program in Orthodontics at Barcelona University. She excelled and graduated as the top student in her class, earning a Master's Degree in Orthodontics.
With over two decades of dedicated experience, Dr Montano specialises in the art of straightening teeth and enhancing facial appearance through Orthodontics and Orthopedic treatments. Her expertise is further enriched by numerous advanced qualifications, including a postgraduate certificate in Orthodontics and Orthopaedic growth in patients, a PhD in TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) and occlusion, and a postgraduate degree in Orofacial pain and Temporomandibular disorders.
Dr. Montano's illustrious career also includes a prestigious surgical orthodontics and jaw surgery residency under the mentorship of one of Spain's most esteemed Maxillofacial surgeons.
Based in South Dublin, she is a specialist orthodontist at 3Dental, where she has established a stellar reputation for delivering first-class results and superior orthopaedic care. As a Diamond II Invisalign provider, Dr. Montano brings extensive experience in all types of clear aligners, possessing profound insights into treatments for teens, children, and patients experiencing growth.
Dr Montano is not just a practitioner but also an active member of several leading professional bodies. Her involvement in the Orthodontic Society of Ireland (OSI), the Spanish Society of Orthodontics (SEDO), the European Orthodontic Society (EOS), the European Aligner Society (EAS), and the Pierre Fauchard Academy underscores her dedication to being at the forefront of the latest techniques and innovations in orthodontics. This commitment ensures she remains at the cutting edge, continually enhancing her expertise and shaping the future of orthodontic dental care.
Dr. Montano's commitment to excellence and comprehensive approach to patient care make her a venerated figure in orthodontics. She is trusted by patients and respected by peers for her depth of knowledge, innovative techniques, and incredible results.
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Dr Robert Price
General Dentist with a Focus on Aligners and Implants
Read BioDr Robert Price
BDS, University College Cork
General Dentist with a Focus on Aligners and Implants
Dr Bobby Price is a distinguished member of the 3Dental team, providing treatment in General Dentistry, Aligners, and Implants. Born and raised in Limerick, Dr Price began his career in the dental field as a dental nurse at 3Dental, gaining invaluable experience early on. He then pursued formal dental education at University College Cork, dedicating five years to studying Dentistry and receiving his Bachelor of Dental Science (BDS).
Dr Price has mastered delivering compassionate and skilled dental care throughout his education and professional development. His approach to dentistry is centred on creating a relaxed and caring environment for his patients, ensuring they feel at ease during their treatments.
Currently, Dr Price is completing his master's in Dental Implantology at Salford Manchester and has successfully completed hundreds of aligner cases, showcasing his commitment to advancing his expertise and providing cutting-edge dental solutions.
At 3Dental, Dr Price values the modern surgeries and state-of-the-art technology that enable him to offer the best possible care. His core value is to ensure that every patient feels they have received the best service and value for their investment. He takes pride in his high standard of work, which not only meets his professional standards but also earns the appreciation and trust of his patients.
When not perfecting smiles, Dr Price enjoys an active lifestyle, engaging in activities like golfing, running, and watching rugby. His active lifestyle and interest in sports reflect his dynamic personality and his pursuit of excellence, both personally and professionally.
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Dr Cem Algul
Specialist Orthodontist
Read BioDr Cem Algul
Bachelor Dent. Sc. (University of Szeged, Hungary) 2016, Specialising in Orthodontics, 2019
Specialist Orthodontist
Dr Cem Algul is a highly skilled orthodontist with a passion for creating beautiful, healthy smiles. He graduated from the University of Szeged in 2016 with a degree in dentistry, and shortly after, he knew that he wanted to specialise in orthodontics.
After completing his general dentistry training, Dr Algul pursued a speciality in orthodontics, which he completed in 2019. During his training, he developed a keen eye for detail and a commitment to using the latest techniques and technologies to help his patients achieve optimal results.
Today, Dr Algul is recognised as a leading orthodontist in his community, and he is known for his friendly, compassionate approach to patient care. He takes the time to get to know his patients and works closely with them to develop personalised treatment plans that meet their unique needs and goals.
Whether helping a child achieve a healthy, straight smile or working with an adult to correct problems with their bite and improve overall dental health, Dr Algul is committed to providing the highest level of care and achieving the best possible outcomes for his patients.
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Dr Kahei Hernández
Practice Limited to Orthodontics
Read BioDr Kahei Hernández
Bachelor Dent. Sc. (San Pablo CEU University, Madrid) 2014, MSc. Dentofacial Orthopedics and Orthodontics (Alcalá University, Madrid) 2020
Practice Limited to Orthodontics
Kahei graduated in dentistry in 2014 from San Pablo CEU University in Madrid and worked as a general dentist for six years.
In 2020 he received his three-year master's degree in Dentofacial Orthopedics and Orthodontics from Alcalá University in Madrid and became a qualified Invisalign provider.
Kahei is currently splitting his time working as an orthodontic dentist in Dublin and Madrid. He came to Dublin to grow as a professional and experience living abroad.
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Rayan Rehman
Orthodontic Therapist
Read BioRayan Rehman
Dublin Dental Hospital
Orthodontic Therapist
Rayan is a graduate from the Dublin Dental hospital in Trinity college. She has experience in all areas of dentistry but has a key interest in orthodontics and prosthodontics.
Rayan enjoys working with patients and seeing the end result of a satisfied patient.
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Sarah Dempsey
Orthodontic Therapist
Read BioSarah Dempsey
Dublin Dental Hospital Orthodontic Therapy
Orthodontic Therapist
Previously, Sarah worked in a small specialist orthodontic practice for 8years. She joined the previous practice as a dental nurse and, in 2018, went back to college to study orthodontic therapy at Trinity College/Dublin Dental Hospital.
She enjoys being clinically involved with the patients' treatments from start to finish and seeing the transformation after treatment is complete.
Sarah joined 3dental in July 2022 and enjoys her role within the practice. She likes that 3Dental is a multi-disciplinary practice, and all treatments are carried out here with clinicians having direct contact with each other when involved in cases, particularly complex cases.
Sarah enjoys spending time with her family and going to the gym in her spare time.
Common Orthodontic Treatment
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Metal Braces
- Braces: Whether you need kids braces for your child, or adult braces for yourself, these essential appliances gradually realign the teeth into the correct position. Depending on your unique needs, the orthodontist might recommend fixed braces (also known as train track braces) or removable braces, such as Invisalign.
- Retainers: A retainer will ensure your teeth remain in their new positions after your initial treatment.
- Face masks: Headgear and face masks can correct underbite and overbite issues. They're primarily used in younger patients - although adults might wear them in severe cases.
Transform Your Smile With An Orthodontic Treatment Plan From 3Dental
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Sarah Dempsey - Orthodontic Therapist
Across Ireland, from our Dublin clinic to our Limerick clinic, and our Galway clinic, 3Dental orthodontists are at the forefront of orthodontic treatment, using the latest technology to provide treatments for adults and children.
Our orthodontic specialists will work with you to transform your smile, giving you a huge confidence boost. Modern treatments now mean there are more options for adults, including invisible aligners, which help correct alignment issues without being obtrusive.
We pride ourselves on creating a friendly environment for patients with flexible payment options and ongoing support throughout your treatment.
Please get in touch today to arrange an appointment.
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