Choosing to improve your smile with orthodontic treatment is a big decision! There’s a lot to consider before deciding to make the leap, and all that research can sometimes feel a little overwhelming. If you aren’t sure where to start, don’t worry—we’re here to help! At David & Goldberg Orthodontics, we want you to feel educated and empowered in your orthodontic journey. That begins with finding an experienced orthodontist you feel comfortable with and confident in.
With so many providers to choose from, finding the right orthodontist for you can be a bit of a challenge. Achieving a beautiful smile is an investment of your time and finances, after all! To help you make an informed choice on who to trust with your teeth, we’ve put together this list of important questions to ask first. Keep reading below to learn more!
Is the Doctor an Orthodontic Specialist?
This may seem like a really obvious question since we’re already talking about orthodontists. It’s actually one of the most important things you can ask, however, since there are some general dentists who are also able to provide orthodontic treatment. While most dentists focus on common dental services and cosmetic treatments, you may come across one that offers some limited orthodontic treatment as well, often in the form of clear aligners.
Conversely, the sole focus of a trained orthodontist is to create beautifully aligned smiles for patients of all ages by offering a range of orthodontic care. As trained professionals, orthodontists will be able to track your progress throughout the treatment process. They’ve spent more than ten years total learning how to manage tooth movement and guide facial development, so you’re putting your smile in the very best hands!
Dr. Davis earned his dental degree and a Master’s degree in Orthodontics from Indiana University School of Dentistry and taught there before he began practicing orthodontics. He is also a board-certified Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, a distinction only 10% of all orthodontists achieve.
Dr. Goldberg completed his D.M.D. at Tufts Dental school in 2007 and his orthodontic specialty training in 2009. Upon graduation, he was appointed to the clinical faculty at Tufts Orthodontics. Dr. Goldberg worked as an orthodontist in the Boston area for 10 years before relocating to Greensboro to be closer to family. Together, he and Dr. Davis have over 50 years of orthodontic experience!
Is Your Orthodontic Consultation Free?
Another important question to ask when choosing an orthodontist is whether or not they offer free consultations. Many offices, including Davis & Goldberg Orthodontics, offer a free assessment of your smile before beginning the treatment process! This free visit will often include digital photographs and x-rays of your teeth, an orthodontic exam, and a discussion with the orthodontist about your options before making a final decision.
On your first visit to our High Point or Greensboro office, you’ll be introduced to some of our team before we go over your medical and dental history. If we don’t have a panoramic x-ray available from your dentist, we’ll take one at this time. This shows us all the teeth in detail and gives us a better look at what’s happening below the surface of the gums as well.
Next, it’s time to meet your orthodontist! Dr. Davis or Dr. Goldberg will perform an oral examination and review your panoramic film. The information that we obtain from this exam, along with your history and the images collected, is what our doctors will use to make an initial diagnosis and customize a treatment plan for your unique smile.
What Treatment Options Are Available to You?
Although many people tend to equate orthodontics with teens in braces, the truth is that patients of all ages can benefit from a variety of treatment options! When deciding on an orthodontist, ask them to explain what treatments are available to you. It’s important to educate yourself on which option might work best for you, your lifestyle, and your smile goals. Davis & Goldberg Orthodontics is proud to offer the following treatment options for a total smile makeover!
Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces are the most popular orthodontic appliance and have a proven track record of efficiency. The brackets are made from a durable mix of stainless steel and affixed directly to the front of the teeth with a wire running through them. Today’s braces are more comfortable, effective, and aesthetically pleasing than ever before and deliver excellent results in cases from simple to complex.
Clear Braces
Clear braces, also known as ceramic braces or tooth-colored braces, function the same way metal braces do. However, they use semi-translucent or tooth-colored ceramic brackets instead of metal to blend in better with a patient’s natural smile. When paired with clear, white, or tooth-colored wires and elastic ties, ceramic braces provide an incredibly subtle option for straightening teeth!
Although ceramic braces are strong like metal braces, the material they’re made of can be more prone to chipping or cracking. They also tend to be slightly more costly than metal brackets. Since they can be more expensive and are slightly more prone to breakage, we will generally only recommend ceramic braces for our older teen and adult patients.
Invisalign Clear Aligner Therapy
Invisalign is an exciting alternative to braces that uses a series of clear aligners instead of brackets and wires to straighten teeth. The aligners are designed to be removable, which offers patients a bit more freedom and flexibility than braces. The trays are made of soft thermoplastic resin and custom-designed to fit snugly over teeth.
Patient compliance is important with the Invisalign system. The aligners need to be worn for 20-22 hours per day throughout the treatment process and must also be switched out for the next in the series every 1-2 weeks, depending on the treatment plan. This allows them to keep up with the movement of the teeth.
Not all treatment options are appropriate for every case. That’s why our doctors will create an individualized treatment plan for you based on your specific smile needs!
Find the Right Orthodontist for You Here at David & Goldberg Orthodontics
If you’re ready to take the first step to improved oral health and a beautiful smile, we’d love to meet you and walk you through everything we have to offer! We work hard to create a welcoming environment and stress-free orthodontic experience from start to finish, and our doctors offer personalized care with exceptional results. Get in touch today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step towards transforming your smile!
