In recent years, we’ve seen more and more general dentists offering some level of orthodontic treatment in their practices. This has led to an increase in the number of patients wondering if they can bypass an orthodontist altogether and have their family dentist straighten their smile. We get it! If you have a dentist’s office you’re already familiar with, it can be tempting to stick with them. However, there are some important differences between dentists and orthodontists, even if there is an overlap in services sometimes. If you’ve been comparing orthodontists vs. dentists, wondering what the differences are, we have the answers for you!
Choosing to improve your oral health with orthodontic treatment is a big investment, and we know it’s not one you take lightly. Dr. Alborzi is a highly trained and experienced orthodontist. When you understand what she has to offer that other dentists don’t, it will help you decide which provider is best for you. Let’s get started by taking a closer look at what an orthodontist is!
Extra education and training (and lots of it)
Dentists and orthodontists both begin their careers in dental school. However, orthodontists take a different path after graduation, one that includes several extra years of specialized training in aligning the teeth and jaws. Orthodontic residency programs are highly competitive, with only the top students in any dental school graduating class accepted. These orthodontic programs usually last about 2-3 years, with a full-time focus on identifying and correcting orthodontic issues.
Once this rigorous residency program has been successfully completed, a dentist will become an orthodontist. A simpler way of putting it is that orthodontists are dentists who have had many additional hours of specialized training and experience in orthodontics. There are exceptions to every rule, but in general, most dentists will not possess this exhaustive level of education and training.
Does that mean some dentists can provide quality orthodontic care?
All dentists will receive some basic orthodontic training in school, and there are some dentists who can provide quality orthodontic care to their patients. This is often due to that particular dentist participating in continuing education seminars on orthodontics. Many also acquire extra orthodontic experience through workshops and other training opportunities. This is commendable, of course, but the truth is, workshops and seminars simply can’t cover such extensive and specific material in any real depth.
Before moving forward with orthodontic treatment by your family dentist, consider what an experienced orthodontist like Dr. Alborzi can provide. This includes:
- a wider variety of affordable treatment options
- a customized treatment plan based on your unique smile, specific needs, and desired results
- more efficient treatments and visits, since orthodontics is the main focus
- the best possible outcome for your smile, particularly if your case is complex or severe
Here at Alborzi Orthodontics, we have one focus and one focus only: providing patients of all ages with world-class orthodontic care and exceptional results! Our team puts a lot of time, energy, and effort into perfecting our techniques, and we perform teeth straightening procedures daily. We also keep up to date on the latest in industry practice, team members regularly attend continuing education courses, and our office is equipped with cutting-edge orthodontic equipment. You can count on us to provide you with nothing but the best in high-quality care with a personal touch!
Specialized treatment produces the straightest smiles
As the patient, your choice of care provider is up to you. But when it comes to your oral health and how your mouth feels and functions, we think it makes sense to go with a qualified orthodontist like Dr. Alborzi. Her comprehensive education, training, and experience are hard for most general dentists to beat!
Specialized orthodontic care can also help avoid any unnecessary complications. An orthodontist is more likely to notice the small things that a 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 both time- and cost-effective. What’s not to love?
Treat your smile to the best with help from Alborzi Orthodontics
If you’re looking for a stress-free orthodontic experience and long-lasting results you’ll love, you won’t do better than Alborzi Orthodontics! Our talented team offers high-quality treatment plans and unmatched care from your first appointment to your last. Since our sole specialty is orthodontics, we have the experience and expertise necessary to give you nothing but the best in treatments, cost, and efficiency.
Are you ready to take the first step towards the confident smile you’ve always wanted? We’d love to meet you and help you understand how orthodontics can benefit your smile! When you schedule a FREE consultation with our office, Dr. Alborzi will perform a painless but thorough oral examination. Following this exam, she’ll provide a diagnosis and outline a personalized treatment plan just for you.
This is a no-pressure appointment! Even if you decide not to pursue orthodontic treatment immediately, we’ll be happy to answer any questions or address any concerns you might have in order to help you make an informed decision when you’re ready.
With a new year on the horizon, there’s never been a better time to get started on a new smile! Get in touch today to schedule your complimentary consultation with Dr. Alborzi.