Making the decision to pursue orthodontic treatment is a big deal! If you’ve been considering an orthodontic evaluation for you or a family member, you might wonder if this is something your general dentist can take care of. After all, you’re already familiar with them and it’s normal to prefer the known over something new. However, there are a few reasons why you should trust your family’s smiles to an orthodontist. The differences between these fields are things you should be aware of to help you make the best decision for your unique smile.
Here at About Faces and Braces, we know that you want nothing but the best for your family, including healthy teeth and a beautiful smile. Our practice is proud to offer expert orthodontic care to patients of all ages throughout our community! Dr. Shawn and Dr. Candice are highly trained and skilled orthodontic specialists who have been providing families in Springfield, Clarksville, and Nashville with exceptional care for many years. Understanding how orthodontists like ours differ from a general dentist will help you make the most informed decision, so keep reading to learn more!
Extra education, specialized training, more experience
Dentists and orthodontists start off on the same path, with both beginning their careers in dental school. However, once they graduate, dentists will normally begin practicing, while orthodontists must embark on another few years of specialized education. During this time, they’ll learn about the way our mouths grow and mature, develop specific diagnostic skills, and work on a number of case studies. They’ll also receive training in biomechanical techniques and learn how to successfully move the teeth with braces, aligners, and other appliances. As you can see, becoming an orthodontist is an extensive process, which is one reason why only 6% of dentists pursue this specialty!
While all dentists receive some orthodontic training in dental school, it’s usually very basic. Most general dentists won’t possess the level of training and expertise an orthodontist has when it comes to straightening smiles, though of course there are exceptions to every rule.
Some general dentists are capable of providing quality orthodontic care to their patients, and they often choose to sharpen their skills with continuing education seminars and workshops that cover related topics. Unfortunately, these courses are often unable to sufficiently cover the same extensive material the orthodontic student studies. Even dentists with some orthodontic experience will lack the level of education and training as an experienced orthodontist like Dr. Shawn or Dr. Candice.
What are the benefits of choosing an orthodontist?
If your dentist offers orthodontic care, we understand why you would consider choosing them for your family’s orthodontic care. However, before you move forward with that plan, we encourage you to consider the benefits that come from choosing an orthodontist. These include:
- a wider variety of treatment options—About Faces and Braces offers traditional metal braces, clear braces, and Invisalign clear aligners
- a customized treatment plan—Dr. Shawn and Dr. Candice will create this based on your specific needs, lifestyle, and the desired results
- a more efficient treatment process—orthodontics is our only focus, which means we can produce the best possible outcome, particularly in complex or severe cases
Our practice is focused on orthodontic care and treatment, with our doctors performing teeth straightening procedures day in and day out. We’re always working to perfect our technique and our entire team stays up to date on the latest in industry practice by regularly attending continuing education courses, both in-person and online (obviously the more popular option these days!) We also keep our Springfield, Clarksville, and Nashville offices equipped with the best and latest in orthodontic technology, all of which allow us to provide patients with the highest-quality care and exceptional results.
Specialized care produces superior smiles
As the patient, you’re in charge of your care. It’s up to you to choose the healthcare provider you feel most comfortable with in any situation! But when it comes to creating a fully functional mouth that looks and feels good, an orthodontist is often the safest bet for the best results. While some dentists offer orthodontic services, Dr. Shawn and Dr. Candice have specialized education and training in how to safely and effectively move the teeth, plus years of experience in creating beautiful smiles for patients of all ages.
Orthodontic care can also help avoid any unnecessary complications. Orthodontists are more likely to notice small things a general dentist may overlook. They are also committed to only recommending the most appropriate treatment plan for each patient! This can reduce treatment times and lessen the chance of any complications. When you choose About Faces and Braces, you can feel confident that your treatment plan will be time-effective, affordable, and built around your unique needs.
Trust your family’s smiles to About Faces and Braces
Your family’s smiles are too important to trust just anybody! Our expert team is proud to offer patients world-class service, affordable treatment options, and the latest in orthodontic technology. You’ll enjoy a rewarding process from the first appointment to the last! Since orthodontics is our only specialty, your smile is our top priority.
If you and your family are ready to take the first steps towards healthier smiles, we’d love to schedule a FREE consultation for you! During this initial visit, you’ll receive a thorough evaluation by one of our doctors, including a discussion of any issues that may be present and a personalized treatment plan.
This is a no-pressure visit! If you decide not to pursue orthodontic treatment immediately, we’ll still be happy to answer your questions and address any concerns you have in order to help you make an informed decision.
Your family deserves the best, including a lifetime of healthy smiles! Get in touch today to schedule your FREE in-office or virtual exam.