What’s Better – Invisalign Treatment from a Dentist or Orthodontist?

If you’re unhappy with the current condition of your smile and you’re not eager to have your teeth straightened with traditional braces, then all hope isn’t lost. You can still have the look of your ivories rejuvenated with the Invisalign alternative. Before undergoing the procedure, though, you need to determine whether to have the treatment administered by a dentist or orthodontist. Find out the answer as you continue reading!

What is Invisalign?

Whereas traditional braces use brackets, wires and bands to apply constant pressure to teeth to move them to their correct position, the Invisalign method takes a different approach to deliver the same results.

It involves a series of clear, plastic aligner trays that are custom-designed by a dentist. This is accomplished using digital imaging and bite impressions that aid in creating a treatment plan that fits your specific needs. The protocol is then sent to an Invisalign-certified lab that will fabricate a series of aligner trays.

How the Invisalign Procedure Works

Instead of visiting your dentist every four weeks for adjustments as is common with traditional braces, you’ll wear each set of aligner trays for two weeks and then exchange them for the next pair in the series. Then, every six-to-eight weeks, you’ll visit your dentist so the professional can make sure you’re on track.

Is a Dentist Better-Suited to Provide Invisalign?

A common misconception is that only orthodontists are qualified to place Invisalign clear aligners. The reality, though, is any dentist can undergo the necessary training to become a certified provider.

Here are some of the advantages of choosing a dentist to oversee your treatment:

• Cleanings – By working with a dentist, your oral health will be addressed from a wholistic standpoint. That means that in addition to receiving Invisalign treatment, you’ll also be able to benefit from cleanings that are crucial to maintaining excellent oral health.
• Examinations – You also stand to benefit from the careful examinations that are conducted to monitor your oral health. Thus, any budding issues can be identified and corrected early.
• Relationship – By receiving all your care from one dentist, you’re able to build a lasting relationship, and you’ll have the assuredness of knowing the professional understands the full scope of your oral health.
• Comprehensive Care – If you have a busy schedule, then the last thing you want to do is drive around town to have different procedures performed. By working with a dentist who provides other services in addition to Invisalign, you’ll save time and money.

It Starts with a Consultation

To get answers to any other questions about the Invisalign procedure and to find out whether you’re eligible, reach out to a local dentist to schedule an appointment. Then, you can have all your oral health needs met under one roof. So prepare to enjoy a beautiful and functional smile for years to come!

About the Author

A graduate of Baylor College of Dentistry, Dr. Bita Kamali has nearly two decades of experience providing the utmost in dental care. Still, she remains committed to learning more, which is why she takes continuing education courses annually. Specializing cosmetic dentistry, which includes the placement of Invisalign aligner trays, Dr. Kamali helps patients smile with confidence at Parkway Vista Dental, and she can be reached for more information through her website.