An orthodontist is a specialist who focuses on preventing, diagnosing and treating misaligned bites, known in the biz as malocclusion. They have the expertise to use appliances like braces to straighten the teeth for a smile that not only looks amazing but is more functional as well.
What Type of Training Does an Orthodontist Have?
Every orthodontist gets their doctorate from dental school. Upon completion of dental school, some graduates go into practice right away while others choose to pursue a dental specialty, which requires additional training in a two- or three-year residency program. There are nine dental specialties sanctioned by the American Dental Association including the two Dr. Chan trained in, orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. During their residency, aspiring orthodontists spend some more time in the classroom and gain extensive clinical experience meaning they treat actual patients. When they’re finished, they must pass examinations to become a certified specialist in orthodontics. So, after high school, your orthodontist had to go to school for 10 or 11 more years before they could start perfecting patients’ smiles.
Do I Have to See an Orthodontist?
If you want to straighten your teeth, it’s essential that you visit an orthodontist. An orthodontist has the skills and training to determine the root cause of your misalignment, whether it’s dental or skeletal, and recommend the right treatment for your individual needs. Since aligning the bite can create permanent changes in your teeth, and sometimes even the structure of your face, opting for a certified specialist in orthodontics is a smart move.
Thanks to all of those years Dr. Chan spent hitting the books, he can manage tooth movement with orthodontics and guide facial growth and development with dentofacial orthopedics. This can help patients avoid surgery and extractions and ensures dramatic results that last a lifetime.
Want to Benefit From an Orthodontist’s Expertise?
You don’t need a referral from a dentist to see Dr. Chan. We have locations in Bothell, Mill Creek and Monroe, Washington and Juneau, Alaska. Simply contact the office of your choice and we’ll schedule you for a complimentary visit. It’s that easy!
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