Are you interested in straightening your teeth? Are braces the method you’re most interested in? Are you wondering who you should visit to start the teeth straightening process? Wondering where to go for teeth straightening procedures is a common question in the dental industry. Dentists can provide teeth straightening care, but oftentimes they will refer you to an orthodontist for the straightening process. This is because orthodontists go through additional specialized educational training to become orthodontists. On top of their undergraduate and post-graduate studies in dental care, orthodontists will acquire about 2-3 more years of education. Even though some dentists can provide teeth straightening options, sometimes a specialist is a safer road to pursue, especially in complex cases.
What is the Process to get an Orthodontist Referral?
You actually do not need to visit your dentist to schedule a consultation appointment with an orthodontist. Although, sometimes it is good to have a professional give their opinion on whether you should pursue a teeth straightening procedure or not. Additionally, dentists can provide you with a list of orthodontists they trust, alleviating the need for you to do research.
Sometimes, you may not even notice that you or your child may require orthodontic care. A dentist can spot these potential problems ahead of time and recommend you to visit an orthodontist.
The Process to Getting Braces
The first step to getting braces is booking a consultation with an orthodontist. This initial consultation will help plan the path required for you or your child to receive braces. The consultation will typically involve a full examination. During this examination, if it is determined that braces are necessary, the orthodontist may take x-rays, impressions, and photographs of the mouth, teeth, and bite. Following this examination, the orthodontist will make a specialized plan to best care for you or your child’s smile.
Once the orthodontist makes a plan, the following appointment can consist of the installation of braces. Prior to installation, there will be a thorough cleaning to ensure that there is no debris, plaque, or buildup present on the tooth before the cement (special glue) is added. The wires will also be added to the braces bracket during this appointment. Your orthodontist will also give you guidelines on how to care for your braces at home.
After the installation, there will be frequent visits scheduled to ensure that the treatment plan is in progress. Frequent visits will also allow for adjustments if teeth are not moving the way it was believed they would. New wires will be installed, and perhaps the introduction of other tools like elastics and powerchains.
Should you still visit the dentist when visiting the orthodontist?
It is essential that you still go to all scheduled dental appointments after visiting an orthodontist, and especially after the installation of braces. Brackets can make it difficult to properly brush your teeth or floss. Buildup of plaque can lead to tooth decay. The hygienists at your dental office can ensure that your teeth are properly cleaned each and every visit.
Conclusion
To conclude, visiting an orthodontist is your best option when looking to get braces. Although some dentists can complete teeth straightening procedures, visiting a specialist is a safe and effective way to achieve the straighter smile results you are looking for. The specialization of orthodontics leads to better results than that of a general dentist. Are you interested in braces? Book a visit with us here at Taft Hill Orthodontics!