How can you tell the difference between a general dentist and an orthodontist

The internet has ushered in the Information Age. We all use google to understand medical and dental recommendations but the plethora of information has also opened the door for misinformation and confusing conflicting articles available in top searches for the consumer.

One form of misinformation in the public domain is that someone who offers braces or Invisalign is an orthodontist. Unfortunately this leads to botched braces. Luckily there’s not a recorded death of a patient from a poor orthodontic results. However, patients do lose thousands of dollars and time (priceless) in treatment with a primary care or general dentist. Some unlucky patients loose teeth as well from poorly executed treatment plans.

To preserve your teeth, wallet and result your best bet is to verify that you are seeking orthodontic treatment with an orthodontist.

Ask your doctor these simple questions and save yourself or child from a botched result.

• Doctor have you gone to an accredited orthodontic residency? An orthodontist goes to a residency after dental school for an additional 2-3 years. These years are spent mastering the nuances of tooth movement and malocclusion to best treat patients.
• Doctor have you ever treated a mouth similar to mine? May I see before and after photos of your results?
• Doctor have you ever given a referral or received care from an orthodontist for you? Your family? Your staff?
• Do you perform procedures other than orthodontics? If your dentist also does your fillings he or she is not an orthodontist.

Serenity Orthodontics in Cumming GA offers complimentary consults for braces, Damon braces and Invisalign. Seek a second opinion if you feel that your treatment isn’t progressing.