Orthodontist…what does that mean? Many consumers are confused why they should choose an orthodontist in the Redwood Shores CA area at Redwood Shores Orthodontics versus a general dentist or pedodontist to straighten their teeth with braces or Invisalign. Plain and Simple… the answer is experience and training.
Orthodontist…What Is The Difference?
- All are dentists who specialize in oral care, and all are technically dentists.
- Orthodontists complete an additional two – three years of training in orthodontics, above and beyond general dentistry
- Pedodontists complete an additional two – three years training to specialize in all areas of general dentistry for children
- All orthodontists are dentists, but only 10 percent of dentists are orthodontists. Orthodontists limit their practice to moving teeth and correcting jaw irregularities
- Dentists and Pedodontists refer their patients to an orthodontist if they have problems with the alignment of their teeth or a bite abnormality of some kind. The same as a physician would refer you to a cardiologist or orthopedist if you had heart or skeletal issues.
- If you do not suffer from a bite irregularity or misaligned teeth, you will likely never have to see an orthodontist. If you do, an orthodontist is the best qualified professional to treat your needs for a healthy long term dental result.
In an effort to keep up with the ever-changing world of technology and great advances in orthodontic care, Dr. Eric Wu regularly attends numerous training and education seminars. He is an active member of:
- American Association of Orthodontists
- Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists
- California Association of Orthodontists
With the sudden rise in general dentists and pedodontists offering orthodontic services, it is important to understand the differences in treatment delivery and care! At Redwood Shores Orthodontics all we do is orthodontics, all day long, day in a day out, with thousands of beautiful smiles created over the years. Before you make your final selection to straighten your teeth, contact our office for a free smile exam and learn about the difference.