As more people search for ways to get the smile they’ve always dreamed of, there are now more and more practitioners offering teeth-straightening services without undergoing specialist training. While these practitioners may have attended weekend courses and claim to provide ‘orthodontic services’, consumers need to be aware that they may not be formally registered specialist orthodontists. Only specialist orthodontists are fully qualified and recognised by the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA) to straighten teeth and align jaws.
An ongoing education
Orthodontists have undertaken an additional 3 years of specialist training – over and above their general dental degree. When they’re not seeing orthodontic patients, they’re learning more about the field, which ensures they are across the latest technology available to patients.
This includes attending conferences and education sessions, as well as reading the latest research into technological advancements. Most importantly, orthodontists are able to apply their expert knowledge to this information to uncover false claims and ensure they’re offering the best and safest options for their patients.
Why doesn’t my local orthodontist offer shorter treatments?
To help teeth transition to their new position and correct bad bites safely, orthodontic treatment needs to be a gradual process. Placing too much pressure on teeth can weaken their placement and cause damage to the roots and gums. This is the reason why most orthodontic treatment plans can take between 18 months to 2 years. If something is worth doing, it is definitely worth doing properly!
In many cases, quick treatments are, in fact, identical to the initial stage of regular orthodontic treatments. The only difference is that rather than the patient completing a full course of regular orthodontic treatment (ie. where jaws and all teeth are properly aligned), a quick treatment generally does not extend beyond the early cosmetic stage. This means that while the front teeth will appear straight, any underlying bite issues will often be left uncorrected.
Only a specialist orthodontist has the training, knowledge and clinical expertise to distinguish which types of patients can be safely finished in a faster than average timeframe and which patients require comprehensive management.
Have metal braces changed?
Absolutely! We might call them traditional metal braces, but the reality is that they have evolved a lot since they first came into use in the orthodontic world. They’re not the same braces as you might remember from your own childhood. These days they’re smaller and subtler, but more effective. With each helpful technological advancement in the field of orthodontics you can rest assured that your orthodontist is across these developments and knows how to implement the necessary changes in their orthodontic practice.
Does that mean that metal braces are the only option for my family?
There are reasons why metal braces are the most common form of orthodontic treatment you’ll see. They’re one of the most cost-effective options, they’re able to perform the full range of complex tooth movements and their results have been proven to be both safe and predictable.
However, metal braces are not the only option. Ceramic “clear” braces, lingual braces or even clear aligner treatments like Invisalign®, Spark® and 3M Clarity can be just as effective in achieving an optimal result.
Your orthodontist will help you select the best type of treatment for you or your child.
How can I find out more?
Whether you have unanswered questions about the different types of treatments, want more information about your options or simply want some expert advice to ensure you’re making the best choice for your family, your specialist orthodontist is there to help.
Search the Australian Society of Orthodontists (ASO) database to find a specialist orthodontist in your area who can assess your case in more detail.
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