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According to BioMed Central, over nine million Americans receive orthodontic treatment, including braces or Invisalign, each year. This makes orthodontics the third-largest dentistry treatment completed. If you have teeth that are overcrowded or have large gaps, you have teeth that are crooked or crossed, or you have an overbite or underbite, you may be looking for a dental professional to help straighten your teeth. One of the questions you may have is whether dentists can provide orthodontic treatments. Read on to find out the answer to this question.

Can Dentists Provide Orthodontic Treatments?

Technically speaking, yes, dentists can provide orthodontic treatments, and many do provide orthodontic treatments, including Invisalign and braces. The reason for this is that there is no requirement for a dentist to complete an orthodontic residency program in order to offer orthodontic treatments. However, they are not allowed to call themselves an orthodontist unless they do undergo an orthodontic residency program.

What Should You Look For In a Dentist That Offers Orthodontic Treatment?

If you decide to utilize the services of a general dentist who offers orthodontic treatment, you should always take the time to ensure that they have training when it comes to orthodontic devices. Many general dentists undergo training or certification programs as part of their dental continuing education requirements. If you are looking to work with a dentist when it comes to straightening your teeth, you should always learn what training they have had in regard to braces. You should also always take a look at the before and after pictures of patients they have worked with. This will help you to see the quality of the work and how effective their treatment is when it comes to straightening teeth.

There are many benefits associated with straightening your teeth. You gain self-confidence, improve the spacing between your teeth, and can help to correct bite issues that may cause you pain later in life. There are many different options available to you when it comes to straightening your teeth, including braces or Invisalign. A general dentist can help to oversee the teeth straightening process, as can an orthodontist. If you are looking to straighten your teeth, schedule a consultation with us today. We offer general dentistry and orthodontic services. Call us now to book your appointment!

If you’re thinking about getting dentures, you probably have a lot of questions. Around 41 million people in the United States had dentures in 2020, according to Statista. Your dentist will inform you of what you need to know about denture wearing and will help prepare you for getting them. To understand the denture process, read on to get an idea of this type of dentistry.

Trust the Dentists

Dentists want you to trust them and the process. They have years of experience and education behind them, and they stay up to date on the latest techniques. They want to make sure you are confident going into any procedure that you’re going to be taken care of.

Trust Your Options

We want you to know that there are choices that you have for your dentures. There are several types on the market, and we can go over which is best for your situation.

Trust the Budget

There are several different costs that come with getting dentures. You will want to talk with us about your options and the costs associated with them. They can help you figure out the best way to pay for your upcoming dentistry.

Trust the Process

There are three stages of getting dentures. There is extraction, an optional temporary denture stage, and your final dentures. Here’s how it will work.

Tooth extraction – The dentist will pull your teeth to get ready for the dentures. All will be extracted for full dentures, but you still may need one or more pulled for partials if they aren’t healthy. Your dentist will talk with you about that.

(Optional) Temporary dentures – You may get temporary dentures to help ease the wait time between extraction and your final set. You will need to heal in the meantime as well.

Final dentures – You will have an impression made of your mouth, and your final dentures will be created. Once received, we’ll check the fitting, make adjustments, and have you begin to get used to your final set of dentures. You may need a few adjustments before they are well-fitted.

If you have dentistry questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please give our office a call. We’re here to answer all your concerns.

According to experts in the dental industry, approximately 90% of people 20 years old or older have at least one cavity. Even if you’re lucky enough to have come this far without any cavities, an annual dental cleaning should be a part of your routine. Continue reading to learn more about the importance of yearly dental visits.

Your Dentist Will Conduct a Cancer Screening

One of the most important parts of your regular dental visit is the screening that your dentist conducts for signs of oral cancer. Like most other types of cancer, when it’s discovered in its earliest stages, cancer of the mouth, gums, and tongue can be successfully treated. Your dentist will also check your head, neck, and throat for any signs that something may be amiss. This is an important reason to visit your dentist.

Clean Teeth Are Healthy Teeth

Your regular dental cleaning helps to keep your mouth, teeth, and gums clean and healthy. This prevents the buildup of plaque and tartar and helps to curtail the development of cavities. Regular cleanings are also great for your gums. If you are showing early signs of gum disease, or gingivitis, it’s important to see your dentist on a regular basis to prevent the condition from worsening. And, you’ll love the way your teeth and gums feel when your hygienist finishes your cleaning. Who doesn’t love a fresh and clean mouth?

Regular Check-Ups Catch Problems Early

X-rays are often part of a regular dental appointment. Even without x-rays, seeing your dentist on a regular basis allows them to notice any problems as they are developing. When spotted early, gum disease and tooth decay can be treated before they become major problems. There are even some medical conditions that your dentist could be the first to notice. When regular dental visits are a part of your medical routine and care, you give yourself a better chance of staying healthy. Don’t underestimate the importance of dental care and good oral hygiene as part of your overall health and wellness.

Our team is here to take care of all your dental needs. We recommend that you undergo a dental cleaning at least once, if not twice a year. If it’s been a while since your last visit to the dentist, give us a call today and schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Straight teeth are important for a child’s health and self-esteem. A misaligned bite can cause speech difficulties, difficulty chewing, and an increased risk of gum disease, so it’s important to determine when your child is ready for orthodontic treatment. Let’s gain more insight into knowing when to consider Invisalign for your child.

1. Permanent Teeth

According to KidsHealth, it’s suggested that children should visit an orthodontist when their permanent teeth start coming in, around age seven. At this age, Invisalign treatment can be considered to begin the process of realigning your child’s teeth. Your orthodontist can adjust the aligners as your child’s mouth grows.

2. Jaw Growth

Your orthodontist will also consider your child’s jaw growth. Jaw growth usually stops around age 11 or 12. The orthodontic specialist may still recommend this treatment before growth stops, depending on the severity of your child’s orthodontic needs.

3. Teeth Grinding

A pattern of teeth grinding can indicate that Invisalign aligners may be necessary. Teeth grinding can cause dental issues, and this orthodontic treatment can correct the issue. Otherwise, teeth grinding can cause long-term damage to your child’s teeth.

4. Overjet

An overjet is when the upper front teeth stick out over the bottom teeth. Using Invisalign treatment can help correct the overjet by shifting the lower jaw forward. When left untreated, an overjet can cause speech difficulties, gum recession, and other dental problems.

5. Crowded Teeth

Crowded teeth can cause plaque buildup and gum disease. Luckily, Invisalign treatment can fix overcrowding. Invisalign aligners can gradually move teeth into their correct positions without the use of metal braces or wires.

6. Small Gaps

Invisalign aligners can close small gaps between teeth. This can improve the appearance of your child’s smile and help them feel more confident. It can also reduce the risk of gum disease because it helps to prevent plaque buildup between the teeth.

7. Orthodontic Evaluation

The best way to determine if Invisalign is right for your child is to have an orthodontic evaluation. An orthodontist will be able to assess your child’s teeth and jaw and create a treatment plan best for them.

There are many reasons you may need to take your child to the local orthodontist for treatment. Luckily, Invisalign can help your child achieve a straight, beautiful smile. If you’re considering Invisalign treatment for your child, consult with our local orthodontist office today!