If you have an overbite, underbite, crooked teeth, or another dental alignment issue, you should certainly seek professional care. But whom should you choose to straighten your smile? Some general dentists offer braces and/or clear aligners, such as Invisalign. However, orthodontists specialize in such services. Does it really matter which one you visit? It might. This blog post discusses why an orthodontist is the best bet.
Orthodontists Have More Training
Just like general dentists, orthodontists must complete dental school. However, an orthodontist goes on to complete extra training after they finish their initial dental education. This additional training focuses exclusively on orthodontics — the dental specialty that deals with teeth alignment, bite alignment, and occlusion. Usually, an orthodontic residency lasts 2 – 3 years.
General dentists are also extremely well educated, but when they choose to complete extra training, it is usually not in the field of orthodontics. Rather, they may focus on things like aesthetic services, root canal therapy, cavity treatment, and other things that they deal with on a regular basis.
Orthodontists Have More Experience
During their residency, an orthodontist sees hundreds of cases of dental misalignment. Therefore, before they can even start their own practice, they have a wealth of experience behind them. They are already well-familiar with how to treat a variety of conditions, from the simple to the complex.
Orthodontists May Offer More Treatment Options
Usually, when general dentists decide to offer orthodontic care, they only provide clear aligners. Some also offer metal braces. Plus, if they run into a particularly complex case, they may have to refer patients to an orthodontist anyway.
Orthodontists, on the other hand, tend to offer a variety of treatments, including metal braces, clear aligners, lingual braces, and beyond. They are in the best position to help you decide exactly which method is best for reaching your goals.
Finding the Right Provider
Ultimately, whom you choose to perform your orthodontic treatment is up to you. Many general dentists do a beautiful job of handling relatively straightforward cases. However, if your case is complex, or you simply want the peace of mind that comes with knowing you are in the hands of a specialist, it would be best to visit an orthodontist.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Isaak Yelizar is a board-certified orthodontist based in Queens and Farmingdale. He has extensive experience, and he always seeks to help patients achieve their goals via the most conservative, efficient means possible. He is happy to work with local general dentists to ensure that patients receive the best care during every stage of their oral health journey. To learn more about how Dr. Yelizar and our team may be able to serve you, contact our Queens office at 929-229-1009.