You probably know what a dentist does, but fewer people are familiar with what goes on in an orthodontist’s office. This lack of clarity can result in some myths and misconceptions about what an orthodontist does. At Brady Orthodontics, we offer modern orthodontic care to Winnetka families. What exactly does this care entail? Let’s take a look at some of the myths surrounding orthodontics and clear them up!
Dentists and orthodontists are interchangeable
The biggest myth surrounding orthodontists is that they’re interchangeable with dentists. Both careers start at dental school, and both professionals want to help patients maintain a healthy smile. 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 cosmetic appearance of your smile. If 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. Brady 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 said, both dentists and orthodontists 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. Only the top students in any dental school’s graduating class are accepted. They usually 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 completed, a dentist will become an orthodontist.
The specialized treatment dentists and orthodontics provide are the same
Dentists and orthodontists both have solid oral health education, with plenty of training and experience when it comes to caring for smiles! However, an orthodontist like Dr. Brady will have more years of specialized education. Although some dentists provide basic orthodontic care, like clear aligners or braces for minor misalignments, orthodontists specialize in identifying and correcting certain issues.
Orthodontists are the ideal choice for helping patients avoid any unnecessary complications. They’re more likely to notice the small things that a general dentist may overlook. 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 family dentist offers orthodontic care, you may be considering them as an option. This is understandable, as most of us prefer the things we’re familiar with over the unknown. 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
Here at Brady Orthodontics, our primary focus is orthodontic care and treatment. That’s why we put so much time and work into perfecting our skills! Dr. Brady performs teeth straightening procedures daily most weeks, and our office keeps up to date on the latest in industry practice. Our office is equipped with modern technology, allowing us to provide every patient with only the best in customized orthodontic care.
Orthodontists only treat teens
If the term “orthodontics” makes you picture a teenager, you’re not alone. While it’s true that tweens and teens make up a majority percentage of orthodontic patients, treatment can help patients of all ages. Alongside teens, we work with young children and adults in our Winnetka office. We know that there’s no age limit for achieving a better smile and better oral health!
Keep your smile perfect at Brady Orthodontics
If you want orthodontic care with the best technology, there’s no one like Brady Orthodontics in Winnetka. Dr. Brady will create a custom treatment plan just for you and provide you with the right care throughout your smile journey. Since orthodontics is his primary specialty, Dr. Brady has the experience necessary to give you the best in treatment, costs, and efficiency as you align your jaw and smile!
If you still have questions, we would love to chat with you for your FREE consultation to get you started on your treatment journey. There is no pressure or obligation to enter a treatment plan. Only great individualized information to help you decide what is right for you.
