Frequently Asked Questions (1)

What is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. 

Why choose an orthodontist to straighten my teeth? 
Just as there are specialists in medicine (such as cardiologists, obstetricians, dermatologists etc.), there are specialists in dentistry.  There is a difference between an orthodontist and a dentist who does some orthodontics.

Orthodontists are qualified dentists, who after graduating from dental school, go on to additional full-time university-based education in an accredited orthodontic residency program supervised by orthodontists. That intensive training lasts 2-3 years and is solely focused on orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics.  By learning about tooth movement (orthodontics) and guidance of facial development (dentofacial orthopedics), orthodontists are the uniquely trained experts in dentistry to straighten teeth and align jaws.

An orthodontic specialist is an expert on moving teeth and helping jaws develop properly.  Orthodontists completely limit their practice to orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics to assure you that you are receiving the highest quality care. Most orthodontic insurances only pay for braces once in a lifetime.  Have an orthodontic specialist do it right the first time!

What is a board certified orthodontist?  Aren’t all orthodontists board certified?
A board certified orthodontist has completed a graduate program in the specialty of orthodontics that is accredited by the American Dental Association. Completion of an accredited orthodontic specialty program makes the orthodontist eligible to become board certified through the voluntary examination process of The American Board of Orthodontics (ABO).  The ABO is the only certifying board recognized by the American Association of Orthodontists and the American Dental Association.  Involvement in the certification process is a demonstration of the orthodontist's pursuit of continued proficiency and excellence.

The certification process involves a thorough Written Examination covering all areas of orthodontics and facial growth. Successful completion allows the orthodontist to present treated cases to a Board of expert examiners.  Upon successful completion of case presentations and oral examination, the orthodontist becomes a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics and can then call themselves board certified.  Only 38% of orthodontists in the United States and Canada are board certified.  Both Drs. Matthew and Courtney Dunn are proud to be board certified orthodontists.

Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist?
Absolutely not!!  Unlike medical insurance, you do not need a referral from your general dentist.  You can make an appointment for a free exam without any worries.  We love to meet new patients.  If you are new to the area and looking for a dentist, we would also be glad to give you recommendations.

Are braces necessary?
No.  But, straight teeth help an individual to effectively bite, chew and speak.  Straight teeth contribute to healthy teeth and gums.  Properly aligned teeth and jaws may alleviate or prevent physical health problems.  Teeth that work better also tend to look better.  An attractive smile is a pleasant “side effect” of orthodontic treatment.  An attractive smile is a wonderful asset.  It contributes to self-esteem, self-confidence and self-image—important qualities at every age.  A pleasing appearance is a vital component of self-confidence. A person's self-esteem often improves as orthodontic treatment brings teeth, lips and face into proportion. In this way, orthodontic treatment can benefit social and career success, as well as improve a person’s general attitude toward life.

When should I look for orthodontic problems in my children?
As soon as their permanent teeth start to erupt, you can start to look for developing orthodontic problems.  Here are some signs that may indicate the need for an orthodontic evaluation:
Early or late loss of baby teeth
Difficulty chewing or biting
Crowded or blocked out teeth
Teeth that do not meet at all
Jaws and teeth that are out of proportion with the rest of the face
Habits (like thumb sucking) continued after the permanent incisors erupt
Upper teeth that “stick out”
If your child is extremely self-conscious of his/her smile

Of course, you can always call Dunn Orthodontics for a complimentary consultation so Drs. Courtney and Matthew Dunn can check for potential problems for you.

When is the best time to see the orthodontist?  Do all the permanent teeth need to be in?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have their first orthodontic screening by age 7.  Drs. Matthew and Courtney Dunn are trained to spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth even while baby teeth are present.  The advantage of early detection is that some orthodontic problems may be easier to correct if found and treated early.  90% of the time, we will just monitor the growth and development of your child every 9-12 months until he/she is ready for full treatment.
Remember – there is no age limit for orthodontics!!  At Dunn Orthodontics, we love to treat adults as well as children.

 

Arizona Dental Association