Here at Elm Tree Orthodontics, we know that making the choice to improve your oral health with orthodontic treatment is a big decision. There are many factors to consider before taking the plunge, and it can be a little overwhelming if you’re not sure where to begin! It’s important to us that our orthodontic patients feel empowered and educated from your first visit to your last. Your smile is too important to trust to anything less than an experienced orthodontist, so we’ve put together a list of three questions to ask when choosing an orthodontist for your care.
Keep reading below to find out more about what you need to know before committing to an orthodontic practice for treatment with braces or Invisalign.
Is the doctor a trained orthodontic specialist?
This may seem like an obvious question, but in reality, it’s the most important thing you can ask when exploring treatment with braces or clear aligners. This is because some general dentists are also able to provide orthodontic treatment, even though they don’t specialize in it.
Typically, you’ll see general dentists offering common dental services such as crowns, fillings, and dentures. Occasionally, they may offer orthodontic treatment, such as clear aligner therapy. It’s become increasingly popular for some dentists to offer Invisalign, for example. An orthodontist, on the other hand, spends their days providing only orthodontic services to patients of all ages.
This is a distinction that matters! If you or your child required specialized treatment or surgery, would you feel comfortable with your family physician handling your case, or would you prefer a dedicated specialist? We feel that your smile deserves the same consideration. An orthodontist is essentially a dentist who has also had several years of additional specialized training and experience. This means an experienced orthodontist like Dr. Desai has:
- Harvard Dental degree, Columbia University specialized orthodontic training
- studied the growth and maturation of the teeth and jaw
- been introduced to numerous case studies
- developed diagnostic skills
- learned biomechanical techniques to properly move teeth
- studied how to change the development of the dental alveolar complex and facial growth of younger patients
Orthodontic residency programs tend to be extremely competitive, accepting only the top students from any dental school’s graduating class. These orthodontic programs usually last three years and include full-time training that focuses on correcting orthodontic issues with braces and aligners. While there are exceptions to every rule, most dentists won’t possess this same level of exhaustive orthodontic training and experience.
Dr. Desai has the expertise needed to provide patients in Hamden, North Haven and the surrounding communities with smiles that are healthy, attractive, and functional. You can feel confident your smile is in the best possible hands when you choose the team at Elm Tree Orthodontics for your treatment!
Our team’s only focus here is orthodontic care and treatment. Dr. Desai performs teeth straightening procedures daily, and we all keep up to date on the latest in industry practice by regularly attending continuing education courses. You can trust our talented team to deliver a stress-free orthodontic experience and superior results.
What treatment options does the orthodontist offer?
There’s never been a better time to be an orthodontic patient! Modern technology allows us to offer a wide range of affordable treatment options, from traditional braces to clear aligners. At Elm Tree Orthodontics, we offer the following treatments to patients of all ages.
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces and are more comfortable today than ever before. At Elm Tree Orthodontics, we use Damon metal braces to provide our patients with superior comfort and faster treatment times. Damon braces are also self-ligating, eliminating the need for elastics and rubber bands.
Invisalign clear aligner therapy
Instead of brackets, bands, and wires, the Invisalign system uses a series of customized aligners to straighten your teeth gently over time. These aligners are nearly invisible and also removable, giving you the freedom to eat and drink what you want while in treatment. This also makes it easier to brush and floss properly! The aligners are designed to fit comfortably over your own teeth and have no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment.
How frequent are follow-up visits with the orthodontist?
Office visits are an essential part of treatment, so you should try your best not to miss any of these follow-up appointments! At Elm Tree Orthodontics, we generally schedule them for every 6-12 weeks. During these visits, Dr. Desai will check the movements your teeth are making and make any necessary adjustments to keep your treatment on track.
Because each smile is unique, and every patient responds to treatment in their own unique way, treatment times will always vary from case to case. However, the average patient will spend anywhere from 12-24 months in treatment. You’ll see your orthodontist regularly during this time, so it’s important to choose a practice you’re comfortable with!
Put your smile in the best hands with the team at Elm Tree Orthodontics Orthodontics!
When you’re looking for an optimal orthodontic experience, you simply can’t beat Elm Tree Orthodontics! Our talented team is unmatched in skill, expertise, and the level of high-quality care every patient receives. Since Dr. Desai’s sole specialty is orthodontics, you’re guaranteed to receive nothing but the best in treatments, cost, and efficiency. You can expect outstanding service, a beautiful smile, and personalized treatment from your first appointment to your last!
If you’re ready to take the first step in your orthodontic journey, we’d love the chance to meet you and talk more about how our treatment options can transform your smile. Get in touch today to schedule your FREE consultation with Dr. Desai.