ORTHODONTICS is the specialty of dentistry that deals with problems caused by poor alignment of the teeth and jaws. Treatment means more than a beautiful smile, it can also aid the health of the teeth and gums. An orthodontist is specially-trained and certified to diagnose and treat the many types of malocclusions (mismatched teeth). He must undergo two years of additional training after dental school. To become board eligible he must pass a comprehensive written examination and limit his practice exclusively to the treatment of orthodontic problems. Finally, after practicing for a minimum of five years, one may apply for board certification by the American Board of Orthodontics. This procedure includes presenting a series of case reports on many types of problems treated. These reports include before, after, and two years post-treatment records. After these conditions have been met, the members of the American Board of Orthodontics conduct a complete oral examination of the orthodontist regarding the cases treated, orthodontic care and recent orthodontic advances. If the board is satisfied, the orthodontist becomes certified as a Diplomat of the American Board of Orthodontics.
Reasons To Consult Your Orthodontist
Any time you or your dentist notice a condition which causes concern.
Reasons To Begin Orthodontic Treatment Early
The condition present could cause harm to the teeth or gums.
Function of teeth in the present position may interfere with normal growth and development.
High chance that correction of problem early may decrease the need for any future treatment.
Patient may suffer psychological problems due to present conditions.
Reasons Not To Begin Treatment Too Early
If there is no harm in waiting, all conditions can be corrected in one phase of treatment.
Patient has less chance of becoming discouraged due to multiple and lengthy treatment procedures.
Decreases time in appliances and number of appointments.
Decreases final cost of treatment.
Helps orthodontist make best decision as to proper treatment.
Barrer & White Orthodontists • 311 Penn Avenue
West Reading, PA 19611 • (610) 376-3956
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ORTHODONTICS is the specialty of dentistry that deals with problems caused by poor alignment of the teeth and jaws. Treatment means more than a beautiful smile, it can also aid the health of the teeth and gums. An orthodontist is specially-trained and certified to diagnose and treat the many types of malocclusions (mismatched teeth). He must undergo two years of additional training after dental school. To become board eligible he must pass a comprehensive written examination and limit his practice exclusively to the treatment of orthodontic problems. Finally, after practicing for a minimum of five years, one may apply for board certification by the American Board of Orthodontics. This procedure includes presenting a series of case reports on many types of problems treated. These reports include before, after, and two years post-treatment records. After these conditions have been met, the members of the American Board of Orthodontics conduct a complete oral examination of the orthodontist regarding the cases treated, orthodontic care and recent orthodontic advances. If the board is satisfied, the orthodontist becomes certified as a Diplomat of the American Board of Orthodontics.