What is an Orthodontist

WHAT IS AN ORTHODONTIST?

An orthodontist is a specialist who focuses on the prevention and treatment of dental misalignment and malocclusion. Orthodontists like Dr. Quraishi undertake two to three additional years of training after dental school at an accredited university residency program and then pass national board examinations in order to become certified as an orthodontist. This education, along with the experience of a practice dedicated solely to orthodontics, gives orthodontists a unique ability to create a customized treatment plan and carry out safe, predictable, and efficient treatment.

WHAT DOES AN ORTHODONTIST DO?

Orthodontists help patients identify misalignments in the teeth and jaw that could lead to discomfort, decay, speech defects, and gum disease. Your orthodontist will work closely with you to readjust your bite and smile alignment to prevent these problems and promote optimal oral health.

HOW TO CHOOSE AN ORTHODONTIST

Choosing an orthodontic practice to trust with the beauty of your smile or your child's smile is an important decision. Orthodontic treatment has the potential to be a long process, so you'll want to make sure you or your child are comfortable with the doctor and staff. Your orthodontic experience is something you'll remember for the rest of your life, so make sure it's something to smile about. Ask someone you trust for a recommendation.

CONSIDER EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Once you have a list of a few orthodontists, do a little research. Find out about their educational background, where they went to school, and what kinds of continuing education or specialty training they've had. Before you set up a consultation with an orthodontist, make sure he or she is a licensed member of the American Association of Orthodontists. This ensures that they remain up-to-date on the newest and most effective clinical procedures.

YOUR ORTHODONTIST REGULARLY TREATS:

Irregular Bite: Overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite can lead to difficulties with speech and chewing. They can also strain the muscles of the jaw and result in TMJ pain.

Overcrowding: Many patients’ mouths are not large enough to accommodate all of their adult teeth. Your orthodontist can change the alignment of the teeth to promote proper smile growth.

Aesthetic Imperfections: A bad bite, crookedness, or overcrowding can completely change a person’s appearance. Dr. Quraishi can use advanced treatments to restructure the jaw, mouth, and smile.

WHAT TREATMENTS WILL MY ORTHODONTIST USE?

Dr. Quraishi is passionate about using the latest dental tools and technology to create the best patient experience possible. During your first visit, she will gently examine your teeth and teach you all about your treatment options. She will help you discover how orthodontics might change your smile and quality of life.

Dr. Quraishi uses Invisalign, metal braces, clear braces, lingual braces and retainers to treat patient smiles. Your treatment plan will be personalized to suit your preferences.

We love what we do and would be happy to welcome you warmly into our orthodontic family while we create the smile of your dreams together. Give us a call today to schedule your appointment with our qualified orthodontist.

A FEW THINGS TO CONSIDER

Who will be overseeing your treatment: the orthodontist or assistants?
What types of insurance does the office work with and what kind of financing do they offer?
Do the orthodontist and staff seem interested in making your experience personalized or do you feel like “just a number?”