Choosing an Orthodontist

An Orthodontist maple grove minnesota is a dental professional who specializes in the proper alignment of the teeth and jaw. Your dentist and orthodontist can work together to make sure you receive the best care and have a beautiful, healthy smile.

What is an Orthodontist?

If you and your dentist determine that you would benefit from straight teeth or if you have a jaw misalignment, your dentist may refer you to an orthodontist. However, you do not need a referral to visit an orthodontist. An orthodontist completes the same dental schooling as a dentist but continues their education and training in an accredited orthodontic residency program for an additional two to three years. They focus on the alignment of the teeth and jaw using dental appliances to guide facial and jaw development. Having properly aligned teeth and a good bite makes for a healthy body. Orthodontic treatment is not just for cosmetics and can be used on patients of all ages.

Does the further education make a difference in the outcome of treatment?

The additional two to three years an orthodontist studies and practices their craft makes a very big difference in the process and outcome of orthodontic treatment. As an expert in their field, an orthodontist is able to diagnose a problem, determine the best method of treatment, laying out the treatment plan with a specific time frame and supervise the execution of treatment and how well you are progressing throughout the process all for your individual case. Once treatment is completed, an orthodontist is able to work with the patient to establish long term results.

Can my Dentist provide orthodontic treatment?

While your dentist may offer one or two options in the form of clear aligner therapy or braces, that does not qualify them as an accredited orthodontist. Since dentists do not continue specialized education and training after four years of dental school, they will not have the same level of education as an orthodontist who received training from an orthodontic residency program. After graduating from dental school, roughly six percent continue on to an accredited orthodontic residency program.

The prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities are what an orthodontist focuses on. If your dentist only provides orthodontic treatment and they are a member of the America Association of Orthodontists, you can be sure they are an accredited orthodontist. If they provide general dentistry such as dental cleaning, composite fillings and crowns and veneers then they are not likely to be an accredited orthodontist.

What if my Dentist says they can provide orthodontic treatment?

Some dental offices do offer orthodontic treatment but are mainly focused on preventative and restorative dental care. Minor orthodontic treatment may be no big deal for a dentist to treat but you should consider finding an AAO and Board Certified orthodontist for a second opinion. As with medical doctors, there is a review of all subjects in medical school before a student chooses a field and continues on to a residency program in that field. Dental school does provide some education in orthodontics but the expertise is developed in the two to three year residency program completed after dental school. This extra training is what gives an orthodontist the extensive knowledge and ability to treat patients. Orthodontists have numerous options when determining how best to treat an individual and are not limited to a few orthodontic appliances as a dentist would be.

What is an AAO Orthodontist and Why You Should Choose One

The American Association of Orthodontist, AAO, only allows membership to orthodontists who have completed the required special education and training from an accredited program after graduating dental school. Only orthodontists can be admitted for membership so choosing a doctor who is a member of the AAO will ensure that you are receiving treatment from an actual orthodontist, not a dentist that does orthodontia.

How do I find an Orthodontist and how do I know if my Orthodontist is a member of the AAO?

The website for the American Association of Orthodontists has a locator option to find accredited Orthodontists in your area. If you search for your doctor, they will appear on the website if they are a member of the AAO.

Are there board-certified Orthodontists?

Yes! Diplomates of the American Board of Orthodontics have successfully completed the American Board of Orthodontics Specialty Certification exams. The American Board of Orthodontics is the only specialty certifying board for orthodontia that is recognized by the American Dental Association.

If you have major alignment work that requires the specialized treatment of an orthodontist, your dentist can help you find an orthodontist that they know and trust!

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