Is Getting Braces from Your Dentist a Good Idea?

When talking about the alignment of teeth and repairing bites, orthodontists are generally the names that strike the minds of many individuals. Orthodontic dentists have undergone some extra training that enables them to be able to handle even the most difficult cases. However, the question that on the other hand calls to be answered is; do we have general dentists offering such treatments, too? The number seems to be increasing these days. This can be proved by the increasing number of general dentists offering orthodontic treatment such as braces or clear aligners. This implies there should be an answer as to whether they are allowed to offer such a service. This article will consider the good and bad sides of ordinary dentists giving orthodontic treatment and how this affects those patients who want to get the most excellent treatment for their smiles.                   

 

What are the differences between orthodontists and general dentists?

General Dentists 

Scope of Practice

General dentists offer check-ups and cleaning, fillings, crowns, and other restorative work, and possibly simple surgeries like tooth extraction.

They identify and manage simple diseases of the mouth such as caries, periodontal diseases, and infections. 

Education and Training

A general dentist might either possess DDS or DMD once he/she has received four years of training at a dental school. As for orthodontics, there is much that they might not know since they work on different types of disorders and problems associated with teeth.

Orthodontic Services 

General dental practitioners can offer simple orthodontic services such as Invisalign therapy, repositioning crooked teeth etc. Their understanding of orthodontic dental treatment is not equal to that of orthodontists. In these practices, they may treat minor malocclusion or even refer patients with complicated cases regarding malocclusion to orthodontic specialists.

Continuing Education 

Some general dentists also choose to do additional coursework or become specialised in orthodontics to offer patients more orthodontic options.

Orthodontists 

Specialisation 

Specifically, orthodontist Narrabeen Dentist are specialists who diagnose, prevent, and treat malocclusion or the anteroposterior dental and facial relationships. They focus mainly on correction of teeth alignment, orthodontic and surgical corrections of malocclusions as well as beautifying the facial profiles of patients.

Education and Training 

After a few years in general dentistry, an orthodontic dentist goes into orthodontics. The dentist is taught how to utilise specific orthodontic tools, like metal braces or invisible aligners, for figuring out difficult issues.

Treatment Planning 

They can also design individual treatment plans based on the patient type, condition, and projected goals. They take other issues such as the shape of the face, the position of the jaw and the position of teeth into consideration to get the best outcome.

Complex Cases 

Since orthodontics is a branch of dentistry, orthodontists are very capable of helping anyone with their orthodontic problems regardless of whether they are minor enough such as having crowding teeth or very serious like having facial deformities. Orthodontic dentist can handle various complicated cases that may involve severe malocclusion or some complex orthodontic issues.

Is it ethical for the general dentist to perform orthodontic treatment? 

With some basic education, general dentists can yet offer simple procedures like clear aligner treatment or simple tooth movements, but this is within the capacity of their training. In detailed cases or other cases where simple procedures may not apply, a patient should be referred to an orthodontic specialist like the best Invisalign dentist for better results and safety. Here are some considerations:

Training and Education

Any general dentist who wishes to carry out orthodontic treatment should undergo further training and education in the field.

Case Selection

General dentists are advised to try to analyse the level of complexity of each particular case and to address patients to orthodontists in case it is necessary. 

Collaboration with Specialists

Working together with orthodontists like Invisalign Treatment Warriewood clinic, general dentists can broaden their range of services through either referral or consultation. 

Conclusion

General dentists on the one hand can give rudimentary orthodontic services. On the other hand, they must acknowledge their limitations and know when to send patients to experts. What is required includes; carefully selecting cases, proper training as well and a commitment towards ensuring patient safety. By working together with an orthodontic dentist, dentistry practitioners will be able to make sure that patients are treated properly and efficiently. At last, there should always be the best result that can be achieved for the good health and smile of the patient.