Hey, guys! Dr. Nate here. Even some of my friends don’t know what I do, so I thought I would explain it here. I want to answer the question, “What is an orthodontist?” and hopefully guide you on why I think (okay, I’m a little biased) that you should only trust your tooth movements to an orthodontist.
Is an orthodontist a dentist?
YES. Every single orthodontist has to be a dentist before becoming an orthodontist. This doesn’t necessarily mean you want me doing your fillings or root canals but at one point in time that was what I did. If you came into our Frisco or Allen locations you would know that dental extractions, fillings, crowns etc. are a thing of the past for me.
Don’t get me wrong, I loved that stuff, especially deep cleanings. Cleaning teeth is so satisfying (any hygienist reading would understand!). But to be the best orthodontist possible I have to focus on traditional braces and Invisalign clear aligners.
What is a board-certified orthodontist?
A board-certified orthodontist decides to take extra exams and present their treatment results to fellow peers who scrutinize their work. This process was rigorous but well worth it because I learned so much from the senior orthodontist who reviewed our cases.
Not every orthodontist is board-certified. Only around 30% of orthodontists are board certified.
What does an orthodontist do all day?
Generally, we talk to patients all day and explain what’s happening. Yes, sometimes I go home, and my throat is sore from talking all day. Many explanations are happening and ensuring treatment is progressing as smoothly as possible.
My goal is to get the best results as efficiently as possible, and nearly nothing gets me more excited than removing braces. Every time I remove someone’s braces, they are just so grateful for being out of braces and getting that beautiful smile they have been dreaming of for so long.
All orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists. Trust your smile to someone who only works on metal or clear braces and Invisalign. This is all we do all day, and we know how to give you that great smile.
Thank you for reading. As always, let me know if you have any questions or comments! I look forward to hearing from you!
