Metal Braces. Clear Braces. Gold Braces. Invisalign. With these options, and so many more, how will you ever choose the best orthodontic option? If you’re in the process of exploring all the possibilities, a consultation with an orthodontist is highly recommended.
Many general dentists offer a limited scope of orthodontic treatments in their office. Given this, should you use a general dentist for braces, or should you use an orthodontic specialist who focuses solely on orthodontic treatments – and nothing else?
All dentists, regardless of their specialty, attend and graduate from dental school. However, specialists must complete 2-3 years of additional training during a residency program, in their chosen area of expertise. By the time an orthodontist is working in private practice, he or she has treated thousands of patients for a full range of routine and complicated orthodontic issues.
Reasons to use an orthodontist instead of a general dentist for braces:
Complete Range of Options
A general dentist might offer one or two orthodontic options. The most common being clear aligners such as Invisalign® or ClearCorrect®. On the other hand, an orthodontist offers a wide range of choices and will help you select the best treatment for your unique needs and goals.
Able to Handle Complex Cases
Not only is an orthodontist able to quickly recognize and identify a challenging case, but an orthodontist also knows which treatment is the fastest and most effective. A complex case is best handled by an orthodontist and not by a general dentist. Just like in the medical field, it is best to seek care from a doctor who specializes in and focuses on your specific needs.
Sole Focus on Orthodontics
An orthodontist sees orthodontic patients every day, all day long. A general dentist typically spends a majority of the day seeing patients that require fillings, crowns, and other general dentistry issues. While a general dentist may know how to straighten a patient’s teeth, this is not necessarily their area of expertise.
Up-to-Date on Latest Trends
Because an orthodontist focuses only on orthodontics, it’s easy for him or her to stay well-informed on the most progressive trends, options, products, and techniques. It’s difficult for a general dentist to spend quite as much time focusing on such a precise specialty.
Skilled Support Staff
When you’re under orthodontic care, you want everyone involved to have extensive experience. Orthodontist assistants are experienced with brackets, wires, aligner trays, or any appliance that is part of your treatment. At an orthodontic practice, you can rest assured that everyone in the office is extremely knowledgeable about the process.
Office Designed for Patients of All Ages
Most orthodontic offices welcome young children, teens, and adults alike. Orthodontic offices are appealing to patients of all ages and designed with age-appropriate amenities.
If you opt for orthodontic treatment from a specialist instead of a general dentist, your regular dentist will communicate and work collaboratively with us to help you reach your orthodontic goals. Have your dental records sent from your general dentist’s office to ours. This helps us review and fully understand your dental history.
Please schedule a complimentary, no obligation consultation with our office. It’s never too soon to bring young children for an initial evaluation. We look forward to meeting you and your family, and discussing your orthodontic needs and treatment options. By selecting an orthodontist to oversee your treatment, you’ll surely be happy with the results!
