Kaplan Orthodontics - Choosing The Right Orthodontic Care

Choosing the Right Orthodontic Care

By Dr. Jason Kaplan, Orthodontist | Owner, Kaplan Orthodontics

When it comes to straightening your teeth, there are several treatment options, including seeing an orthodontist, using DIY aligners, or working with your general dentist. Each option has its place, but visiting an orthodontist offers unique advantages, especially for more complex cases.

Orthodontists are dental specialists who complete 2-3 years of additional training focused on aligning teeth, correcting bites, and managing jaw issues. Their expertise allows them to develop customized treatment plans, monitor progress closely, and adjust as needed to ensure the best possible outcome. This level of specialized care helps prevent complications and ensures your teeth and bite are properly aligned for long-term oral health.

DIY braces, such as mail-order aligners, have become popular due to their convenience and lower costs. These aligners can work for mild cases, but since there are no in-person evaluations, some potential issues—like bite misalignments, gum disease, or tooth movement risks—might go unnoticed. Without professional oversight, there's also a greater chance of treatment not working as intended, possibly requiring additional correction later.

Your general dentist, on the other hand, may offer orthodontic services such as clear aligners. Dentists provide excellent care for general oral health and can be a great option for simple orthodontic cases. However, more complex issues—like severe crowding, jaw misalignments, or significant bite problems—are best managed by an orthodontist. Orthodontists have the specialized training and experience needed to address these challenges efficiently and effectively.

Ultimately, working with an orthodontist offers peace of mind, knowing you’re receiving care from a specialist who can handle every aspect of your treatment. While DIY aligners and dentist-provided orthodontics can work in certain situations, an orthodontist ensures that your teeth, bite, and jaw are all aligned correctly, giving you the healthiest, most stable smile for the future.

To learn more about Kaplan Orthodontics, visit: https://jkaplanortho.com/