Why Choose an Orthodontic Specialist Over a General Dentist?
Some dentists offer orthodontic treatments. So, you may be wondering the importance of orthodontists, or if you should even consider an orthodontist for these types of treatments at all. The reality is that there are differences between dentists and orthodontists. And, while a dentist may be able to perform orthodontic treatments, you may wish to consider choosing an orthodontist for your teeth alignment needs.
Schooling for both Dentists and Orthodontists
It’s true that both dentists and orthodontists have to attend and graduate dental school to perform dental treatments. So, each job description learns how to identify and treat common dental concerns. However, the length of time differs for each occupation. Dentists who wish to solely perform general dentistry have to graduate from dental school, which takes 8 years (bachelor’s degree and dental school). But, those who wish to become orthodontists must continue dental school with a 2-3 year residency.
Typically, dentists who perform both general dentistry and offer orthodontic treatments continue with educational classes until qualified to offer desired treatments. So, they may continue with classes while simultaneously offering general dentistry. But, an orthodontist has completed up to 11 consecutive years of schooling before practicing orthodontic procedures.
Which Profession for Which Issue?
Basically, an orthodontist is a specialized type of dentist who has training in treating severe cases of teeth alignment and positioning. And, dentists who perform general dentistry can help to identify and treat common oral health conditions. So it’s important, before choosing between a dentist and orthodontist, to consider your oral needs before choosing which type of doctor is best.
For example, a dentist can fix a cavity. But, if that cavity is the result of overcrowding of teeth and the inability to properly floss or brush, an orthodontist can help to straighten the teeth so that proper alignment is obtained. So, if you simply need to identify your issues and get a routine cleaning, a dentist is fine. But, if you need to fix the alignment of your teeth and prevent further issues, an orthodontist is the correct and most effective choice.
Your Orthodontist Consultation
Fortunately, a consultation with an orthodontic can not only help to identify the issue you’re experiencing, but the treatment which will best help to provide you with the beautiful smile you want and deserve. Start the journey to your new smile and schedule your orthodontist consultation with a specialist at Sequence Orthodontics.
Why Should I Wear a Retainer After Braces?
Finally–the moment you’ve been waiting months to arrive. After a number of adjustments, tightenings, and daily maintenance, your braces are coming off! Undoubtedly, the day you get your braces removed is exciting and satisfying. You can’t wait to show off your straight, pearly whites to everyone you know. But, just when you think you’re free, your orthodontist reminds you of your after braces retainer. While it may not be something you’re excited about now, wearing your retainer after having braces is something you will thank yourself for doing in the long run.
The Importance of a Retainer
Braces work by utilizing wires which slowly turn and shift teeth to their optimal positioning. This movement is slow. But, even slower is the rate at which the mouth will register the new positioning as permanent. So, retainers can be used to keep the newly positioned teeth into place until permanent positioning is fixed. Without using a retainer on a daily basis after braces, a patient can have an orthodontic relapse. And, the use of braces may be required to once again realign the teeth.
How Long Will I Have to Wear My Retainer?
At first, retainers must be worn at all times of the day. Usually, a non-removable bottom retainer is applied and a removable top retainer is provided. Typically, all-day wear of retainers is suggested for the same amount of time the braces were worn. After this amount of time, removable retainers should be worn during the night. The wearing of retainers during sleep is commonly practiced for years, or until permanent teeth settlement is thought to be achieved. However, if patients are serious about the permanent aligning of their teeth, they will wear a retainer at night for the remainder of their lifetimes. This is because the bone is ever growing and shaping.
Do You Think You May Need Braces?
Since bones are ever-shifting and growing, individuals may find that they need braces later in life. Or, maybe you just haven’t considered orthodontic solutions to teeth alignment until now. Whatever the case, there is an orthodontic solution which can help you get the smile you’ve always wanted. To get your orthodontic consultation, contact the Sequence Orthodontics location nearest you.