Orthodontists—Your Partner to a Healthy, Beautiful Smile

Today’s blog is from our guest blogger, Catherine Manabat, who is writing on behalf of the California Association of Orthodontists.

The California Association of Orthodontists is a resource for parents to learn more about orthodontic treatments and provides general tips on how to achieve healthy, beautiful smiles, get braces-friendly recipes, and find an orthodontist near you by using the Find an Orthodontist Locator service. Why should you choose an orthodontist? Orthodontists receive an additional two-to-three years of specialized education beyond dental school to learn the proper way to align and straighten teeth.

Catherine is also a proud former “braceface” and smiles every day to prove it!

If you have a packed schedule like most people, you probably dread the idea of adding yet another appointment. But there are a ton of reasons why choosing an orthodontist can be beneficial for you and your smile.

Orthodontists are specialists. It’s kind of like choosing who to see if you have heart problems. Sure seeing your general physician wouldn’t hurt—but seeing a cardiologist who specializes in your condition would be far better. Similarly, orthodontists are qualified dentists themselves. After graduating from dental school, they go on to an accredited residency program to work under orthodontists. For at least two years (sometimes more) of full-time training based in a university, orthodontists learn the ins and outs about tooth movement and guiding facial development. They become experts in dentistry to straighten teeth and align jaws, undergoing rigorous training. After all that education, it’s no wonder orthodontists emerge as true specialists in detecting, preventing and treating dental and facial irregularities.

The California Association of Orthodontists makes it easy for you to find an accredited orthodontist near you with their Find an Orthodontist Locator service, or you can also ask your dentist for a referral. Only orthodontists can join this association, and choosing a member of the California Association of Orthodontists ensures that they are indeed an orthodontist—someone who has the additional years of specialized education beyond dental school to give you a healthy, beautiful smile. It’s enough to make anyone smile! J

Join the California Assocition of Orthodontists on Facebook and Twitter, for more tips on braces, braces-friendly recipes, and to share your family’s experience with orthodontists with other parents.