Choosing Your Orthodontist
10 Things You Should Know Before Choosing Your Orthodontist
1. Straight teeth are essential to optimal health
Straight teeth help you to effectively bite, chew and speak, but did you know that
straight teeth are less prone to decay and injury than crooked teeth? Misaligned
jaws can contribute to abnormal wear of tooth surfaces and excessive stress on gum
tissue and the bone that supports the teeth and the jaw joints. Early correction
of tooth and jaw misalignment can help prevent these problems and may be less costly
than treating more serious problems that can develop as a result of delaying treatment.
2. Straight teeth boost self-esteem
Teeth that work better also look better! A beautiful smile is a benefit of orthodontic
treatment. It contributes to good self-esteem, self-confidence and self-image –
important qualities at an early age. In this way, orthodontic treatment can benefit
social and career success, as well as improve a person's general attitude toward
life.
3. You should choose a certified orthodontic specialist
An orthodontist is a dentist who, after graduating from dental school, completes
additional full-time university education in an accredited orthodontic residency
program supervised by actual orthodontists. This specialized training lasts at least
2-3 academic years, and sometimes longer, making orthodontists educated experts
in a specific field of dentistry that straightens teeth and aligns jaws.
Orthodontists limit their practices to orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics,
which means they specialize in orthodontic treatment only. They diagnose, prevent,
and treat dental and facial irregularities. Selecting an orthodontist who is a member
of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO)
is your assurance that you have chosen an orthodontic specialist.
4. You should research before you choose an orthodontist
Most orthodontists have a biography on their websites. If not, you will want to
call the office to find out where he/she went to school, if he/she is board certified,
if he/she treats children and/or adults, how long he/she has been in practice, if
he/she offers the treatment you are interested in, if he/she has received any awards,
etc.
5. Orthodontics is affordable
Orthodontics is a great investment and orthodontists strive to make orthodontic
care affordable for your family. Most practices offer FREE initial orthodontic exams
and evaluations. To make payment easy for the rest of your treatment, practices
will offer payment by most major credit cards and a variety of payment options.
Many offices accept insurance plans and are experts at maximizing your available
benefit. Check with your orthodontist to see what is available in his/her office.
6. Treatment times are shorter
Due to the many technological advances available today in the field of orthodontics,
such as clear aligners and self-ligating braces, many patients are enjoying significantly
shorter treatment times. Treatment is shorter, more comfortable and requires fewer
appointments – making it easier for busy, active families to fit it into their
schedules.
7. Less noticeable cosmetic treatment options are available
Today, orthodontic specialists can offer several cosmetic treatment options, such
as clear aligners, clear braces, and lingual braces (braces behind the teeth) that
are virtually invisible!
8. Children should receive an orthodontic evaluation before the age of 7
Although orthodontic treatment is possible at any age, there is such a thing as
the ideal time. Starting treatment at the right time gives the patient more conservative
treatment choices, which can prevent the need for extractions or surgical procedures
later. That's why the American Association of Orthodontists advises early orthodontic
screenings. Most orthodontists offer free orthodontic examinations for new patients.
With no obligation, an initial exam will give you the expert information to direct
your treatment choices as well as the opportunity to meet the orthodontist and his/her
team.
9. Orthodontic treatment is available for adults
Orthodontics is not just for children anymore. There are many treatment options
available for adults from Invisalign® and retainers to full comprehensive treatment.
Many adult patients are finding out now how a healthy, attractive smile can enhance
their careers and social lives. It's never too late to start building the smile
you deserve.
10. Schulman Study Group orthodontists are special
Schulman Study Group orthodontists are a very special group. Members of this professional
group are committed to supporting each other in pursuing the most progressive and
innovative treatment techniques. Excellence in practice and care is the mission
that unites and drives the members of the Schulman Study Group. When you choose
a Schulman Group orthodontist, you are choosing a specialist that is committed to
being the best and giving you the best treatment and care possible.
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