An Orthodontist is a specialist in a specific area of dental health in the same way that a Cardiologist is a specialist in heart health. If a person has a heart condition, the specialist they see is a Cardiologist. If you have teeth that are crooked, crowded, showing gaps, a jaw that is not aligned properly or problems with your bite, the specialist you should speak to before agreeing to any treatment is an Orthodontist.

After graduating from dental school, 4 out of 5 Dentists become General Dentists. A very small number (one of twenty) are accepted and go on to obtain a postgraduate degree in Orthodontics. Only after additional years of education at an accredited university as well as an Orthodontic internship can they present themselves as Orthodontists. Taking seminars, night courses or weekend programs does not mean that a General Dentist is suddenly an Orthodontist.

While a General Dentist may dabble in and, offer Orthodontic treatments and products based on limited, non-university training, an Orthodontist spends every day diagnosing and treating patients who require expert Orthodontic care. Being an Orthodontist is not part-time profession.

Why accept the first and perhaps only Orthodontic treatment suggestion you’re given by a General Dentist who has far less training, experience and knowledge? A certified Orthodontist has the education, expertise and professional perspectives that will give you more choice in terms of treatment options and cost. You’ll only understand all your options for Orthodontic treatment options by speaking to a certified Orthodontist.