Female orthodontist working on a patient's teethHave you been considering straightening your teeth to improve your smile? Deciding where to go to straighten your teeth, how to pay for it, and what type of braces to choose can seem endless. In recent years, many general and pediatric dentists have begun offering orthodontic treatment in addition to their other services, which makes the decision even more complicated. When you’re making the decision of who to choose for your provider, consider these reasons for why you should choose an orthodontist.

Choosing Your Doctor

An orthodontist’s education goes beyond general oral health care and offers specialized training in straightening teeth, correcting bite problems, and jaw alignment issues. They are experts in facial surgery, jaw correction, and advanced maxofaciallary treatment techniques. Choosing an orthodontist to perform your orthodontic treatment means you are selecting a professional that has devoted their education and career to creating beautiful smiles.

Orthodontist Training

Did you know that all orthodontists are also dentists? In order to become one, a doctor must first go through dental school before they complete an orthodontic residency program. The residency is normally two to three years long and gives them the opportunity to work on many orthodontic cases under the supervision of skilled orthodontists. A full-time residency requires a budding orthodontist to complete over 40 hours per week to ensure they are properly trained. This education gives them the opportunity to hone their skills with many different cases and treatment plans.

Specialization

When you choose to invest in straight teeth, you want to make sure it’s done right. An orthodontist is a specialist that specializes in straightening teeth and has undergone rigorous training for orthodontics.

Expertise

Orthodontists have knowledge of the latest techniques and technology, and can therefore choose the best treatment plan for your teeth. Many dentists only offer Invisalign as an option and have only the most basic training in how to use the system for teeth straightening. However, this is not the best option for all patients. They can offer a wide variety of treatment options and have the skills to treat even the most severe cases.

Considering Invisalign?

If you are an adult or a teenager interested in discreetly straightening your smile, you have come to the right place. We are able to effectively treat very challenging cases with Invisalign. Dr. Holbert’s case experience with Invisalign ensures you will have a successful Invisalign journey.

Better Understanding of Jaw and Bite Alignment

Orthodontists are uniquely qualified to address jaw and bite alignment issues, such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites. These alignment problems can lead to a host of oral health issues, including tooth wear, speech difficulties, and even chronic pain. They have the training and expertise to correct these misalignments in ways that improve both function and appearance. By addressing the underlying causes of these issues, orthodontists not only create straighter teeth but also contribute to better overall oral health and comfort for the patient.

Preventing Future Dental Issues

Choosing an orthodontist for your teeth straightening needs is a proactive way to prevent future dental issues. Crooked or misaligned teeth are not just a cosmetic concern; they can also make proper cleaning difficult, leading to plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. They are trained to recognize these potential problems early on and can design treatment plans that not only straighten your teeth but also improve your oral hygiene. With their help, you can avoid more serious dental problems down the road, ensuring a healthier smile for life.

Holistic Approach to Orthodontic Care

Orthodontists take a holistic approach to your oral health, considering how the positioning of your teeth affects your entire facial structure. They understand the relationship between teeth, muscles, and bones and how changes in one area can impact the others. This comprehensive perspective allows orthodontists to create a more balanced and harmonious facial profile, enhancing both aesthetics and function. Whether you’re dealing with jaw alignment issues or facial asymmetry, an orthodontist’s expertise ensures that your treatment improves not only your smile but also your overall facial appearance.

Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments

When you choose an orthodontist for your teeth straightening treatment, you benefit from ongoing monitoring and adjustments throughout the process. Orthodontic treatments often require regular check-ups to ensure that everything is progressing as planned and that adjustments can be made as needed. Orthodontists are skilled at identifying when minor changes need to be made to keep the treatment on track, ensuring that you achieve the best possible results. Their continuous oversight means your teeth will be guided into their ideal position efficiently and safely.

The team at Holbert Family Orthodontics specializes in providing individualized, caring service because we know that every patient has unique needs. When you choose an orthodontist and schedule your complimentary consultation, we will walk you through all of the treatment options available and partner with you in choosing the treatment plan for the best possible outcome. We look forward to starting your smile journey today!