The Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist
It’s easy to assume that because dentists and orthodontists both work on your teeth, they are doing the same job, but that’s simply not the case. While dentists and orthodontists both go to dental school, an orthodontist has at least three more years of education and specialization at an accredited university in order to diagnose, prevent, and treat dental and facial irregularities. While receiving this education, orthodontists also develop the skills and tools they need to properly align and straighten teeth.
Why Should You Always Choose an Orthodontist Over a Dentist for Braces
Over the years, we’ve met with many patients who have been sadly mislead into believing that their dentist was a trained orthodontic specialist. While it’s possible for a dentist to take online or weekend courses in order to achieve a certificate or dental-orthodontic association membership, this is not the same as attending an accredited university where training occurs daily over three years.
Most dentists are quick to recognize the complexity of orthodontic treatment, and they are happy to refer their patients to specialists like the team at Molen Orthodontics. However, there is a small minority of dentists who will attempt to perform orthodontic treatment on their own, without the necessary knowledge and training afforded by residency programs at accredited universities.
Trust Your Orthodontic Treatment to Molen Orthodontics
One of the main benefits of choosing Molen Orthodontics over a dentist is that we are dedicated to customizing your treatment plan. We use cutting-edge Damon braces and our decades of experience to craft a smile to complement your facial features, without making your profile look flat. The result is a natural looking, healthy smile, thanks to the way we position the braces on each individual tooth.
If your dentist has recommended orthodontic treatment, it’s important that they also recommend an orthodontist. Much like you wouldn’t call a plumber to fix an electrical outlet, you should only work with an accredited orthodontist to achieve your smile goals. For more information on orthodontic treatment, you can download our FREE guide: Orthodontics for Adults: Treatment Options for Patients Over 21, or scheduled a FREE consultation to get started!