3 Things You Should Know About Orthodontists

Orthodontists are the specialists you see when you need orthodontic treatment. For example, if you need braces, you go to see the orthodontist. They specialize in correcting a wide range of dental problems. There are three things you should know about your orthodontist.

1. Every Orthodontist Is a Dentist

Every orthodontist starts out as a dentist. They go through the same schooling as your general dentist and can provide the same treatments that a general dentist provides, like fillings, exams, extractions, and more. However, not every dentist is an orthodontist. Only 5% of dentists are orthodontists, according to the Orthodontics Association.

Orthodontists learn everything there is to know about general dentistry, but they then go on to learn all about their specialty. Most orthodontists do not provide general dentistry services and they instead focus on providing orthodontic treatment.

2. They Go to School for a Long Time

To become an orthodontist there is a lot of schooling involved. To become a general dentist, you must go to undergraduate school for about four years, then you go to dental school for four more years. When a dentist is done with dental school, if they decide they want to specialize in orthodontics, they must go to school for two additional years.

These professionals have a lot of formal training. Even when an orthodontist is done with all the formal education, education does not end. Continuing education and training are a part of being an orthodontist. That’s how they keep up with the evolving treatment technology. An orthodontist becomes certified in different treatment methods by keeping up with training and passing exams.

3. Many Providers Were Patients Just Like You

A recent survey done by the American Dental Association found that 58% of orthodontic specialists have, at some point in their lives, worn braces. This means that your orthodontist very likely knows exactly what it feels like to wear braces from the first-person point of view.

Orthodontic treatment is available to correct overbites, underbites, cross bites, and other dental alignment problems. These experts will help you reach your goals. You deserve a healthy straight smile, and, with the help of an orthodontist, you can have one. Make your appointment today with a board-certified orthodontist from Best Smiles.