So you’ve got questions about your orthodontic care. Fantastic!
There’s nothing we at Orthodontic Associates like to see more than a patient who’s proactive about their care. It’s good to be informed!
And there are so many questions to ask! What exactly does an orthodontist do, anyway? How did Dr. Miller become an orthodontist? What’s the difference between an orthodontist and a general practitioner?
We asked Dr. Miller to sit down with us and go over some common questions to ask when choosing an orthodontist. Read on to find out what he said.
Is the doctor a trained orthodontic specialist?
You might not know it, but general dentists can and do sometimes operate in a limited capacity on orthodontic treatments.
While a general dentist may technically be capable of providing treatment, it’s essential to understand that orthodontists like Dr. Miller have undergone years of specialized training on top of dental school. Orthodontic programs are highly competitive, and the American Association of Orthodontists reports that only 1 in every 15 applicants is accepted.
While your dentist has a good understanding of your general oral health, orthodontists like Dr. Miller have studied the growth and maturation of the teeth and jaw. They’ve developed refined diagnostic skills to predict issues associated with treatment and the most appropriate course of corrective care and have undergone extensive training in the development of facial features in childhood and adolescence.
Don’t you want to leave your specialized care needs to a specialist?
What treatment options are available for my case?
Orthodontic Associates prides itself on making a wide range of treatments available to our patients. We want you to love your care and encourage you to work with Dr. Miller to find the best option for your needs.
Tried and true, these have been in service in one form or another for over 200 years! Rest assured, today’s braces are more comfortable and easier to handle than ever. Frequently, these are still the best option for many patients.
Clear braces
Also known as ceramic braces, these operate like metal braces. They’re made of transparent materials and are much less noticeable. One drawback is they require slightly more attention than traditional metal bracket braces.
Clear aligners
Clear aligners like Invisalign are a series of invisible, removable, and comfortable acrylic trays that straighten your teeth like braces. Clear aligners are removable, which makes cleanup significantly less challenging. At Orthodontic Associates, we’re proud to offer Invisalign, which performs demonstrably better than other brands.
How frequent are follow-up visits with the orthodontist?
Most corrective treatments will require frequent visits. Anywhere from every six weeks with Invisalign, from monthly to bi-monthly visits with braces, are typical.
Patients with Invisalign may be seen slightly less frequently, but these appointments are still essential to the orthodontic process! Also, you’ll want to come by every few weeks for your new trays.
Every treatment is unique, but your course generally takes 12-36 months. We look forward to delivering you the most incredible smile possible, no matter your plan!
How much is my initial visit?
At Orthodontic Associates, we’re happy to offer new patients their consultation free of charge.
Dr. Miller grew up admiring his father, orthodontist Dr. Miller Senior, because of the joy he saw being spread to patients who were able to smile with more confidence than ever before or who experienced relief from chronic pain based in temporomandibular disorders (TMJ).
That’s why we don’t see dollar signs when you come to see us – we see people. Call today!