Here at Dietrich Orthodontics, we know that choosing to improve your smile with orthodontic treatment is a big decision. There’s a lot to research and several factors to take into consideration, but one of the first steps in your journey towards a straighter smile should be choosing an experienced orthodontist you can trust. With so many providers to choose from, you may not be sure where to start. We’re here to help! When you know the right questions to ask, it will help you make a well-informed decision on your care. To learn more about what to ask when choosing an orthodontist, keep reading below!
Is the doctor a trained orthodontic specialist?
This might seem like kind of an obvious question, but it’s actually one of the most important ones you can ask when considering who to trust with your orthodontic care. While most dentists still offer traditional dental services along with cosmetic treatments, others have branched out into orthodontic treatment as well. For example, clear aligners have become increasingly popular with some dental offices. There’s nothing inherently wrong with this, of course, but most dentists will lack the extra years of education and training that orthodontics have before hanging out their shingle. Their practice will also have a divided focus between orthodontic and dental services.
On the other hand, an orthodontist like Dr. Dietrich has spent a number of years learning how to successfully move teeth with braces, aligners, and other orthodontic appliances. After completing dental school, they will attend a residency program focused in Orthodontics and receive a certificate upon graduation. During their time in residency, they learn the biomechanical techniques involved in properly moving teeth, study facial growth and development, and develop a specific set of diagnostic skills. In addition, they treat patients for 2-3 years in their residency, working with their orthodontic faculty.
As you can see, there’s a lot that goes into becoming an orthodontist! As a specialist, Dr. Dietrich’s main focus is creating smiles that are beautiful, functional, and healthy for patients of all ages. If you’re feeling nervous about seeking orthodontic care, this can offer you some peace of mind and extra reassurance.
What treatment options are available?
Modern orthodontics has made it easier than ever to improve your oral health! Dietrich Orthodontics is proud to offer the following treatment options to completely transform your smile.
Traditional metal braces
Traditional metal braces have come a long way in recent years! They have a long track record of producing excellent results for cases that range from simple to complex. The brackets are made from a high-quality mix of stainless steel and fixed directly to the front of the teeth with a wire running through them, which will move them into the desired positions over time. Today’s braces are lighter and more comfortable than ever before, and can be a cost-effective and efficient choice for improving your oral health!
Clear braces
Clear braces function in essentially the same way metal braces do, but use semi-translucent brackets instead of metal ones. This allows them to blend in better with your natural smile for a more subtle treatment option.
Ceramic braces are strong like metal braces, but the material they’re made from can be a bit more prone to chipping or cracking. They’re also slightly more costly than their metal counterparts. For these reasons, we often recommend ceramic braces for our older teen and adult patients only.
Do you offer a complimentary consultation?
Many orthodontic practices will provide a free assessment of your smile before beginning the treatment process. Dietrich Orthodontics is happy to offer potential patients a complimentary consultation that includes digital photographs and x-rays of the teeth, an orthodontic exam, and a discussion about the available treatment options based on your individual diagnosis.
When you schedule your first visit to our Canton or Alliance office, you’ll be greeted warmly and asked a few questions about your medical and dental history. Our team will then take several digital photographs and x-rays of your teeth so understand what’s happening beneath the surface of your smile! You’ll then be introduced to Dr. Dietrich, who will perform a thorough oral examination before walking you through any treatment that’s indicated.
What will my follow-up visits look like?
Whatever your customized treatment plan looks like, you can expect regular follow-up visits with Dr. Dietrich. These visits are an essential part of any orthodontic journey, and allow us to check your progress, make adjustments to the wire, and potentially prescribe elastics (rubber bands) to assist in tooth movement. They’ll be scheduled for every 4-6 weeks or so, but this will depend on your individual treatment plan. We know that families are busier than ever these days, and value your time. We don’t overbook appointments, and always do our best to run on time so you can get in and out as quickly and efficiently as possible!
Expert orthodontic care is waiting for you at Dietrich Orthodontics
When you trust Dietrich Orthodontics with your orthodontic care, you can rest assured you’re putting your smile into the best hands around. We offer a highly-qualified orthodontist, experienced support staff, and a state-of-the-art office to make your orthodontic experience as pleasant and stress-free as possible! To learn more about how our team can take your smile to the next level, get in touch today to schedule your FREE consultation with Dr. Dietrich.