Invisalign Orthodontics Or Braces

Do you really need to travel all the way to NYC just to see an orthodontist? What is an orthodontist anyway, and what can they do that a general dentist cannot? How do I know if I need to see an orthodontist for invisalign orthdontics, or dentist in Westchester? In this short article, Dr. Bard J. Levey, cosmetic dentist in Croton and Hartsdale NY in Westchester County, answers these important questions.

1) What is the difference between an orthodontist and a general dentist?
An orthodontist is a dentist who has at least 2, and usually 3 years of extra training after dental school focusing exclusively on human growth and development issues, growth modification strategies, and advanced teeth movement techniques. An orthodontist limits their practice exclusively to the practice of orthodontics. A general dentist learns growth and development theories, but obviously does not focus their practice on tooth movement.

2) When is it best to see an orthodontist instead of a dentist for braces?
This answer depends on several factors. If the patient is a young child (under 12 years old) with much growth ahead of them, it is far better to see an orthodontist for any growth modification issues (like expanding the palate, slowing down the grown of the lower jaw, etc.). For teenagers with severe crowding, severe spacing, or bite problems (like overbite, underbite, crossbite) the advanced training of an orthodontist puts them in a unique position for more complex treatment options. For fully grown teenagers with simple crowding or spacing issues (too much or too little space between the teeth), Invisalign Teen, performed by general dentist or orthodontist is a reasonable choice. Similarly for adults, if the problem is a slight/limited crowding or slight spacing problem (ie. gaps between the teeth or rotated/twisted/misaligned teeth), Invisalign orthodontics or clear teeth braces can be fitted by either a dentist or orthodontist.

3) What if I don't like the size, shape, and/or color of my teeth? Should I have them straightened first by orthodontics and then do veneers to make my smile look better?
Depending on your particular situation, you might have another option. If you do not like the size, shape, and/or color of your teeth, you can choose "instant orthodontics." Instant orthodontics is a process in which your teeth are actually shaped (ie. enamel and dentin is removed-similar to the process when preparing a tooth for a dental crown) and covered with a veneer of porcelain that can be a much nicer color. Using this technique, the cosmetic dentist (not orthodontist) can also control the size, shape, and alignment of your smile resulting in a beautiful final result. This option for smile makeovers is much quicker than tooth movement with orthodontic braces on your teeth and usually takes just 2 office visits (about 3 weeks total). For some people, Lumineer porcelain veneers can be placed and do not require the removal of any enamel or dentin tooth structure.

Dr. Bard J. Levey, with state of the art offices in Croton on Hudson, and Hartsdale in Westchester County NY offers free consultations and second opinions for adults with questions or concerns about their smile. Dr. Levey's Smile Design Studio focus' on the dental needs and wants of adults, using the most up to date technology and techniques available, based on Dr. Levey's 1000+ hours of advanced continuing education.