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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.

Most of us associate orthodontics exclusively with the straightening of our teeth. This is a logical association, but the truth is that the importance and influence of orthodontics extends beyond straight teeth and an improved smile. Dr. John Budd and the staff of Phoenix-based Budd Orthodontics remind our patients in Phoenix, Scottsdale and throughout the Valley of the Sun that proper orthodontia elicits a number of health benefits that will serve you well moving forward. If you’re a candidate for a visit to the orthodontist, a better understanding of these benefits may inspire you to schedule that visit sooner than later.

Tooth Decay and Periodontal Disease – properly aligned teeth can prevent certain physical health problems, and tooth decay and periodontal disease are central among them. In terms of tooth decay, untreated orthodontic issues may exacerbate this issue. Simply put, properly aligned teeth are easier to keep clean and collect less plaque. Should plaque and tarter continue to build up in your mouth, you may be at risk of developing gingivitis and, eventually, periodontal (gum) disease. Should this condition worsen, certain teeth may become loose or have to be removed.

As you can see, even if you are making an effort to keep your teeth clean, their misalignment may render your diligence in this area ineffective. Thus the importance of scheduling an appointment with your local orthodontist to make sure your teeth are properly aligned.

Fracture or Injury – protruding upper teeth are more at risk of being broken or fractured in an accident than properly aligned teeth. Repositioning your teeth via orthodontics can greatly reduce this risk.

Improved Self-Confidence – the truth is that we live in a world in which first impressions are vital. One of the key elements of making a good first impression is your smile, and if your smile is less than stellar your self confidence is certain to be as well. Straightening your teeth is not only a good idea from a physical health standpoint. It also makes us feel more confident in social situations, at work or anywhere else in which we interact with others. Being happy with your smile is important, and a good orthodontist can create that reality for you.

The benefits of orthodontic treatment are ones that keep on giving. If you’ve been putting off scheduling your visit to an orthodontist, you owe it to yourself to call today. For your health and your self-confidence, it makes sense to see an orthodontist and begin the process of properly aligning your teeth.

Thank you for taking the time to visit our blog. Please check back often for weekly updates on fun and exciting events happening at our office, important and interesting information about orthodontics and the dental industry, and the latest news about our practice.

Feel free to leave a comment or question for our doctors and staff - we hope this will be a valuable resource for our patients, their families, and friends!