Many patients know what a dentist does, but not as many know what happens in an orthodontic office. This can result in some myths and misconceptions about what orthodontists do for their patients. At Ollins Orthodontics, we’re proud to offer up-to-date care to everyone who visits us. Let’s clear up some myths about orthodontists and explain how Dr. Ollins can improve your oral health!
Dentists and orthodontists are interchangeable
The most popularly-held myth about orthodontists is that they perform the same job as general dentists. Both careers begin with dental school, and both doctors want to help you maintain a healthy mouth. However, there are a few key differences between the two. If you’re concerned about tooth pain or suspect a cavity, a dentist should be your first stop! These dental health professionals can treat aching teeth, decay, cavities, gum disease, and other common health problems. They also offer checkups and professional cleaning services to keep your mouth in tip-top shape.
Orthodontists have a more specialized focus. Most of the patients we see daily have been referred by dentists or are experiencing orthodontic issues like crooked teeth or a misaligned bite. These problems go beyond the physical appearance of a patient’s smile. When left untreated, they can lead to symptoms that may affect everyday tasks such as eating, speaking, and even digesting food properly! An orthodontist like Dr. Ollins has been trained to identify and correct bad bites and other misalignments using braces, clear aligners, or other appliances.
Dentists and orthodontists receive the same education and training
As we’ve stated before, dentists and orthodontists both begin their careers in dental school. However, after graduation, orthodontists take a different path by embarking on several extra years of specialized training and education. These programs are highly competitive, and only the top students in any dental school’s graduating class are accepted. They typically last about 2-3 years, with a full-time focus on identifying and correcting orthodontic issues to create a healthier, more balanced smile. Once this residency program has been finished, a dentist will become an orthodontist.
The specialized treatment dentists and orthodontics provide are the same
Dentists and orthodontists both have a solid oral health education, with plenty of training and experience when it comes to caring for patients! However, an orthodontist like Dr. Ollins will have more years of specialized education. While some dentists provide basic orthodontic care, like clear aligners or braces for minor misalignments, orthodontists specialize in identifying and correcting certain issues.
Orthodontists help patients avoid any unnecessary complications. They’re more likely to notice the small things that a general dentist may overlook and will only recommend the appropriate treatment plan for you. This means treatment times are reduced, there’s less chance of complications developing, and the treatment plan itself will be time and cost-effective.
If your general dentist offers orthodontic care, you may consider them as an option first. This is understandable, as most of us prefer people we’re familiar with over someone we haven’t met. However, before you move forward with orthodontic treatment by your dentist, consider what an experienced orthodontist will be able to provide you. This includes:
- Traditional metal and clear ceramic braces
- More efficient treatments and visits, since orthodontics is the main focus
- A customized treatment plan created just for you based on your unique smile, specific needs, and desired results
- The best possible outcome for your smile, particularly if your case is complex or severe
At Ollins Orthodontics, our primary focus is orthodontic care and treatment for our patients. That’s why we put so much time and work into perfecting what we do! Dr. Ollins performs teeth straightening procedures most weeks, and our team keeps up to date on the latest in industry practice. Our office is equipped with the most current equipment. This allows us to provide every patient with the best in customized orthodontic care.
Orthodontists only treat teens
If the term “orthodontics” makes you think of kids or teenagers, you’re not the only one. Teens and tweens do make up the largest percentage of orthodontic patients. However, treatment can be helpful for patients of all ages! In addition to teens, we work with young children and adults in our Nutley, New Jersey office. We know that there’s no age limit for achieving a better smile!
Your smile is safe with us at Ollins Orthodontics
Ollins Orthodontics wants to help you on your road to the perfect smile. Our well-trained doctors will create a custom treatment plan and provide exceptional care from your first appointment to your last. Orthodontics is our primary specialty, our caring team has the skills and experience to give you the best in treatment at the best costs, and with the best efficiency as you work to align your jaw and smile!
No matter where you are along your orthodontic journey, we want to be there for you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule your FREE consultation here at our Ollins Orthodontics office. There is no pressure or obligation to enter a treatment plan but great individualized information to help you decide what is best for your smile.
