October is Orthodontic Health Month

What is an orthodontist?

Do you know that every orthodontist is a dentist, but not every dentist is an orthodontist?  An orthodontist has completed 4 years of dental school and has a dental license.  However, they have also completed at least 2 additional years of school to study how to safely and efficiently move teeth though bones and gum tissues.  Orthodontists understand the complex biological systems and the engineering principles involved when putting forces on teeth with very specific directions and magnitudes.  Did you know that Dr. Oakley was an engineer for 7 years before deciding to pursue orthodontics…

What’s the best option to straighten your teeth?

Today there are more options than ever to straighten your teeth.  Traditional braces are smaller and more comfortable.  Clear (ceramic) braces are a great alternative to metal braces for people who want their braces to be less noticeable.  Clear braces also look great with color O-ties – the colors really pop!  And of course, clear aligners (like Invisalign) are becoming more and more effective at straightening teeth and correcting bites.  Make sure to ask Dr. C and Dr. Oakley which options would work for you!

Do I need to see a dentist while I’m seeing my orthodontist?

You might be wondering why you need to see the dentist while you’re seeing an orthodontist (didn’t we just say the orthodontist is a dentist)?  Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are extremely important during orthodontic treatment.  In fact, your dentist may recommend even more frequent cleanings during this time.  Although Drs. C & Oakley do check on your brushing (and will make you try again and again); brushing well is not the same as a dental cleaning.  Dentists and dental hygienists check and clean below the gum line and get off any hard calculus that has formed.  While your orthodontist is monitoring the position of your teeth and your bite and checking for visible cavities, we do not take the kind of x-rays needed to see if cavities are developing between your teeth.  If it’s been more than 6 months since your last visit to the dentist, please schedule an exam and cleaning ASAP!

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