Dentist Orthodontist Woodlawn

Patients in Woodlawn looking for dental care are often confused about the difference between dentists and orthodontists. We talk about how our specialized training is different from regular dentistry at Level Orthodontics but we also talk about how the two fields work together. Like other dentists we went to dental school and learned about the structure of teeth, how to keep gums healthy and oral illnesses. After we had our dental degrees we decided to spend more years training as orthodontists. The only things this extra schooling taught us was how to move teeth and fix jaw alignment problems.

Many people find out they need braces during regular dentist checkups. During regular checkups their dentist sees abnormalities such as crowding, gaps or bite problems. These dentists are very vigilant and know when their patients need specialist care. They send complex alignment cases to orthodontists to be looked at and treated. We love these partnerships because finding problems early makes treatment easier and more effective. Dentists and orthodontists in our area work together to make sure patients get the right care.

We help people figure out which provider is best for their oral health issues. Dentists fix cavities, clean teeth and treat gum disease. They pull out bad teeth, fix dental holes and make crowns for teeth that are broken. They do root canals, dental implants and other procedures to fix teeth. Orthodontists only work on moving teeth and the relationship between the jaw and teeth. We fix bite problems that affect function, straighten crooked teeth and heal gaps. In some cases both professionals need to work together to develop treatment plans.

The partnership between dentists and orthodontists in Woodlawn makes patient care better. We talk to each other often about patients we both have and how their treatment is going. While you are having orthodontic treatment your dentist will still do important cleanings and checkups. They will let us know about cavities or gum problems that need to be fixed straight away. We will tell them about tooth movement that could change the dental work that is planned. This continuous communication makes sure every patient gets coordinated care.

Parents ask if going to the orthodontist means they don’t have to go to the dentist anymore. We usually say that both kinds of care are very important. Getting your teeth cleaned regularly is even more vital while you are getting braces. Even with good brushing food and plaque builds up around brackets and wires. Professional cleanings get rid of buildup that home care can’t get rid of. Dentists also keep an eye out for abnormalities that could slow down the development of orthodontics. We move teeth and dentists keep those teeth healthy. We offer Clear Aligners for those who want discreet treatment options. These make it easier to clean teeth.

Level Orthodontics sees people with different dental needs and backgrounds. Some people come in with great teeth and are ready for orthodontic treatment straight away. Before we start some people need to have their cavities filled or their gum disease under control. We work with their dentist to make sure the treatments are done in the right order. Well planned treatment prevents problems and ensures treatment goes well. This planning together helps patients by preventing complications or delays that aren’t necessary.

As part of our specialized orthodontic training we study facial growth patterns in depth. We know how jaws grow and change over time. Knowing this lets us predict what problems might arise in the future and plan treatments accordingly. We know that the position of your teeth can affect how you breathe, talk and chew. General dentists learn the basics of orthodontics but our specialized training goes much further. We can handle complex alignment problems well because of our specialist knowledge.

Patients get confused about the costs of dental care compared to orthodontic care. Most dental insurance plans cover preventive care well such as cleanings and regular x-rays. Basic restorative procedures like fillings are usually well covered. Orthodontic benefits work differently and often have varying lifetime maximums. Some plans pay a percentage while others pay a set amount. We help patients understand and use both kinds of coverage in the best way possible.

Dentists and orthodontists are always learning and growing in their profession. To stay current we attend conferences and training programs sometimes together. In both fields new techniques and materials are always being developed. Dental societies provide a platform for people to share what they know and discuss difficult cases. These professional connections make the whole dental healthcare community better. Patients benefit when their providers talk to each other and learn from each other.