To become an orthodontist, you must be a dentist first. Orthodontists attend four years of regular dental school, but then spend another two-to-three years of additional specialty training in orthodontics. They are experts in the art and science of moving teeth into the ideal positions to create beautiful, healthy smiles.
Orthodontics is a specialized area of dentistry that is best performed by an orthodontist. Although some general dentists advertise that they can provide orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign®, general dentists do not have the specialty training that orthodontists have. You wouldn't ask your general physician to perform a complicated heart or lung procedure – you would visit a cardiovascular or pulmonary specialist. In the same way, instead of seeing a general dentist for your orthodontic procedure, you should seek the expert care of an orthodontic specialist.
Not Just For Straightening Teeth
Besides a beautiful smile, there are other reasons to seek orthodontic treatment. Misaligned teeth and/or an incorrect bite are problems that may affect more than just the appearance of your smile. The following oral conditions can usually be corrected or improved by orthodontic treatment:
- Sleep apnea, mouth breathing and snoring
- Grinding or clenching of the teeth
- Speech impediments
- Tooth decay and gum disease
- Jaw or TMJ pain
- Problems chewing and eating
Drs. James C. Hull, J. Turner Hull and Grant G. Coleman are orthodontic specialists that combine impeccable patient care with unbeatable results. For over 25 years, our orthodontists have provided the people of Charlotte and Union County with quality and affordable treatment, helping to create smiles that will last a lifetime. We invite you to contact one of our orthodontic offices with your questions and concerns. From the doctors and staff, we look forward to meeting you and your family!