You want to start your orthodontic journey on the right foot, and that means having the right expert there for you every step of the way. When you leave your first appointment, you want to walk out feeling confident going forward. Central Massachusetts Orthodontics is here to provide you with all the information you need to get started. To help you out, here are a couple of questions that are good to ask when picking out the right orthodontist.
Is the doctor a trained orthodontic specialist?
This may seem like an obvious question, but it’s an important thing to consider when seeking an orthodontic expert. While some general dentists provide orthodontic treatment, this does not mean they specialize in it. These dentists may provide braces treatment and learn aligner therapy along with dental services such as cleanings, fillings, crowns, and dentures. An orthodontist, on the other hand, specializes exclusively in providing orthodontic services.
This is an important distinction to make. Consider orthodontic treatment the way you would consider receiving specialized surgery. Would you want you or someone you love to receive surgery from a general physician with broad knowledge of surgery, or a dedicated specialist who understands exactly what you need? The same goes for your orthodontic treatment. To guarantee quality orthodontic care, you want a specialist. This means you want an orthodontist who has:
- Studied the growth and maturation of teeth and jaw
- Been introduced to numerous case studies
- Developed diagnostic skills
- Learned biomechanical techniques to properly move teeth
- Studied how to change the development of the dental alveolar complex and facial growth of younger patients
Orthodontic residency programs are very competitive, accepting only the top students in any dental school graduating class. These orthodontic programs tend to last from two to three years along with full-time training that focuses on correcting orthodontic issues with braces and aligners. Most general dentists do not have this same level of in-depth orthodontic training and experience. Dentists are important for developing oral health maintenance. But for specialized orthodontic care, you want someone who knows the specifics of what you need.
Central Massachusetts Orthodontics is ready for what you need. Our team has provided better smiles to patients for decades, and our team of well-trained, eager orthodontic experts has the experience and skills to give you glowing results. If you want a rewarding experience with the right personalized treatment, we’re here for you.
What treatment options does the orthodontist offer?
Every patient has different needs and goals, so it’s important to know your orthodontist has the exact kind of the treatment you’re looking for. At Central Massachusetts Orthodontics, we offer treatment options with advanced orthodontic technology so you can achieve the smile you want. We offer three different treatments:
Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces are the most widely used type of fixed orthodontic appliance. While older models are known for being bulky and painful, modern advancements have made metal braces lighter, smaller, and more comfortable. Dr. Giarrusso or Dr. Livanos will use oral blue to attach the brackets to your teeth and use wire to change the shape and curvature of the wire to move your teeth in the right direction. We’ll also provide elastics for bite correction that come in a variety of colors to add some fun to your treatment.
Clear Braces
Also known as “ceramic braces,” clear braces are similar to metal braces with a more discreet appearance. The brackets are made from a tooth-colored, polycrystalline ceramic material that gives them an almost invisible appearance. This option is a popular choice for adults and older teens who want a less obvious appearance compared to metal braces. Clear braces require more care, as they can break easily and are more likely to stain depending on your eating and drinking habits. But this can be combated with a rigorous oral hygiene routine. This type allows the durability of traditional braces without the responsibility of wear time with clean aligners.
Invisalign
If you don’t want to deal with brackets and wires, Invisalign could be a more desirable alternative for you. This option comprises a series of invisible, removable acrylic trays that straighten your teeth by applying steady pressure on your teeth. You will need to wear them about twenty-two hours a day for them to be effective, although you can remove them to eat, drink, floss and brush your teeth. You will likely go through several trays throughout your treatment, but you will start to see results in only a few months.
How frequent are follow-up appointments with the orthodontist?
While your specific follow-up schedule may vary depending on the orthodontic treatment plan you and our team believe is best for you, we will schedule most patients’ adjustment appointments for about every four to eight weeks. Patients using Invisalign may be seen slightly less frequently, but regardless of treatment, regular appointments with our team are crucial for your overall orthodontic success. When seeking the right orthodontist, it’s important to find someone who knows what you need and won’t waste your time helping you get it.
The average process will take anywhere from one to three years to achieve your ideal smile, but you can begin seeing visible results as early as the first few months with most of our treatment plans. This can be determined through a consultation at our Worcester, Spencer, and Auburn offices. We know you’re busy, so just let us know if you’re running late or need to reschedule. Remember that your participation in the follow-up care is just as important. At our office, we want to work with you to make the most of your time and treatment.
Get the care you need at Central Massachusetts Orthodontics
Choosing an orthodontist is a daunting task, and we’re here to guide you from your first appointment to your last. Our expert team at Central Massachusetts Orthodontics is here to offer you a personalized treatment, a warm and professional experience, and exceptional results. Get in touch to schedule a consultation with Dr. Giarrusso and Dr. Livanos or to talk through your concerns with us! Your satisfaction is as important to us as your smile.