Does your child need an orthodontist or dentist?
In some states – including Texas – general dentists are permitted to provide braces, Invisalign®, and other orthodontic treatments. So if you have been told that your child needs braces, you may be inclined to go to your regular dentist, especially if you have a long-standing relationship. But is this really the best choice, even with a trusted provider? Should your child see an orthodontist or a dentist? If this is your first foray into adolescent dental care, it can be confusing!
Dr. Wint Tun offers a full range of orthodontic services at Harmony Orthodontics in Tomball, TX. Your child’s general dentist will be a key part of your treatment team, and she will work with them to provide a continuum of care. At the same time, her training and expertise makes her a better choice for improving your child’s dental alignment.
To learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment, contact us today.
Orthodontist vs. Dentist: Training and Education
Both an orthodontist and dentist must attend dental school. Once finished, dentists can immediately begin practicing. Orthodontists, on the other hand, must then complete a multi-year residency program, focusing exclusively on craniofacial and alignment issues.
Many orthodontists stop here. But the remaining practitioners – including Dr. Tun – pursue board certification. This helps to ensure that they have the best possible training and are able to provide highly specialized treatments. To become board-certified, orthodontists must pass rigorous clinical and written exams. The recent pass rate of these exams was 78.8%. They must then renew their certification every ten years.
What treatments do dentists and orthodontists perform?
General dentists are responsible for overall oral health. In addition to preventive exams and cleanings, they offer restorative treatments. These include fillings, crowns, and bridges. Many dentists also provide cosmetic treatments, and some offer periodontal care, implant dentistry, and larger prosthetics. And, as stated above, many also provide braces and clear aligners.
Though orthodontists are trained in general dentistry, they typically focus exclusively on tooth and jaw alignment. In addition to braces, they may offer more specialized treatments, including:
- Early orthodontic treatment
- Self-litigating braces
- Invisalign®
- Retainers
- Palatal expanders
- Tongue cribs
- Space maintainers
Why choose Harmony Orthodontics?
When it comes to your child’s health, you obviously want the very best. So the choice is clear – see an orthodontist with the best possible training and experience. Dr. Tun became the Chief Resident in the orthodontic residency program at the University of California, San Francisco. Only five residents per year are accepted to this highly competitive program.
As the owner of Harmony Orthodontics, Dr. Tun combines her education with her compassionate care and her love for aesthetics. She believes that all patients deserve a beautiful smile they are proud to share, and she works tirelessly to provide the best possible results. She and her team also understand the importance of communication and presence in their patients’ lives. They will always take the time to answer questions and will respond to any messages – including texts – within 24 hours.
Contact Us to Schedule an Appointment
To schedule your no-cost, no-obligation consultation, contact Harmony Orthodontics today.
Make your appointment online or call 832-699-3683.