Are you considering having your teeth straightened, but you’re unsure where to start? Doing your research is essential when choosing a reputable orthodontist in your area.
In this blog, we’re exploring why orthodontic treatment is worthwhile and how to choose the most suitable dental practice for your individual needs and expectations.
What is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dentist with specialised training in how to treat irregularities with the teeth and jaw. Problems such as misaligned teeth, crowded teeth, gapped teeth, and widely spaced teeth can be resolved with the help of an orthodontist, who will use a fixed and/or removable brace to achieve this.
An orthodontist is required to undertake a postgraduate qualification at either Masters or Doctorate level. At the end of the course, they must take their examination to obtain a Membership in Orthodontics from the Royal College of Surgeons. They are then eligible to become registered as a specialist orthodontist by the General Dental Council.
Why does having straight teeth matter?
We’re so glad you asked! As there are so many reasons to have your teeth straightened.
High levels of self-esteem
This is probably the benefit most people think of when they consider orthodontic treatment. Improving the appearance of a crooked smile can do wonders for your self-esteem, helping you to grow your confidence around friends and colleagues. Many of our patients tell us they no longer fear smiling around others and for photos and Zoom calls.
Fewer cavities
Unnatural gaps should not exist between your teeth, as they make it difficult to clean your teeth when you floss and brush. Once your teeth are well aligned, your brush and floss will manage to reach tooth surfaces they previously could not.
Clear speech
Speech impediments commonly accompany misaligned teeth, making it difficult to carry out presentations and lead meetings. With speech impediments such as lisps resolved, you will find it easier to communicate with others without feeling self-conscious.
Fewer accidents
Protruding teeth are more susceptible to injuries, particularly during contact sports. Unfortunately, protective mouthguards cannot be worn if you have protruding teeth, as they are designed for correctly aligned teeth. Once your teeth sit in a healthy position within your mouth, trauma is less likely to cause severe damage to your teeth. We can also discuss the possibility of having a sports mouth guard created to protect your teeth once
your orthodontic treatment is complete.
The factors to consider when choosing an orthodontist
Reviews and mentions
When you head to Google to find a ‘reputable orthodontist near me’, take a look at the reviews page on any given practice website. It’s also worth searching for related hashtags on social media channels to see if the practice has been mentioned by others. You may also find news articles about the practice with photographs or interviews with the orthodontists and dentists who work there, which can help give you a sense of how the practice is run and its ethos.
State-of-the-art technology
The use of cutting-edge technology can make a huge difference to how a treatment is overseen and carried out.
We are an impression-free practice and use our TRIOS intra-oral scanner to create accurate 3D images of your teeth and mouth, which provide the foundation for creating your braces or aligners. Digital impressions streamline the planning process and are less invasive than traditional impressions, which can often induce a gag reflex.
The TRIOS technology also allows us to simulate potential treatment outcomes for orthodontic treatment before you even start wearing your appliance. This makes for highly predictable results.
Opening hours
Orthodontic treatment requires multiple appointments during which your teeth are checked over, and your brace is tightened. With this in mind, it’s important to consider a practice’s opening hours to make sure you’re able to visit at a time and day that suits you.
Here at one80 Dental, we offer evening appointments through to 7 pm and early appointments before working hours at 8:30 am. To see a full list of our opening times, please click here.
Atmosphere and philosophy
First impressions are everything. If you attend an initial appointment with a treatment coordinator or a clinic and don’t feel you’re being listened to, that’s an immediate red flag.
A good orthodontist will take the time to get to know you and treat you as an individual. You should never feel as if a clinician is trying to rush you.
When choosing the right orthodontist for you, you will also want to feel comfortable in your surroundings. Is the patient lounge a comfortable place to await your appointment? Does it make you feel relaxed? Are the reception staff welcoming, and is the atmosphere orderly? These are all aspects to consider when you visit a dental practice for the first time.
Experience and training
A dental practice is only as good as the clinicians who work there. Even with all the best tech and materials, if a practice doesn’t have dentists and orthodontists with the right skill base, it’s never going to be equipped to offer outstanding treatment and care.
Each member of the one80 Dental team has been selected on their extensive experience, training and values. Our Specialist Orthodontist Tania Murphy has continued to develop her experience since qualifying as a dentist in 1996. She has held membership in orthodontics since 2003 and a Fellowship in Dental Surgery (Orthodontics) in 2005. Tania undertakes all aspects of orthodontic work and loves to work with adults and children alike. You will find Tania to be a conscientious and caring individual who has a genuine desire to help you feel more comfortable and confident about your smile.
Contact one80 Dental for Specialist orthodontic treatment
Book an appointment with our Treatment Coordinator or initial consultation with a clinician to start your teeth straightening journey. Click here to contact us.
