What is an orthodontist?

Do you know the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist? There are many among us who may answer that question with a blank stare. The question is important, because orthodontists bring a specific set of skills, education and training to the table that allow them to provide the services they do. All orthodontists are dentists but not all dentists are orthodontists. Only six percent of dentists go on to become orthodontists. Providing braces or Invisalign as part of the services available in a dental office does not mean those services are provided by an orthodontist. Dr. John Budd and the staff of Phoenix-based Budd Orthodontics would like to help answer the question at hand for prospective patients in Phoenix and Scottsdale. So what exactly is an orthodontist?

All orthodontists complete an additional 2-3 years of residency training in addition to the four years of training required to become a general dentist. This additional experience makes them specially qualified to give you the most beautiful, healthy smile possible. This additional training is accredited by the American Dental Association and entitles the dentist to be a member of the American Association of Orthodontists if completed at an accredited university.

Once this additional training has been completed, the orthodontist will have the requisite skills to treat the misalignment of teeth and facial development through the use of braces, Invisalign, retainers and other methods. Depending on the goals of each patient, orthodontic treatment may be carried out for purely aesthetic reasons in order to improve the appearance of the patient’s teeth or for the health benefits created by having a well-aligned bite. Orthodontists also work with oral surgeons to carry out facial reconstruction in order to fix jaw abnormalities.

If you or a loved one needs braces or Invisalign, or requires some other form of orthodontic care, contact Dr. Budd and his friendly staff. They will provide a free consultation to discuss your orthodontic needs. Straighter, properly aligned teeth not only look better and give you more self-confidence, they also prevent health problems such as tooth decay and periodontal disease. Go ahead – make your smile the best it can be.