There are three steps in an orthodontist’s education: college, dental school and orthodontic residency program. It can take 10 or more years of education after high school to become an orthodontist. After completing college requirements, the prospective orthodontist attends dental school. Upon graduation, the future orthodontist must be accepted* as a student in an accredited orthodontic residency program, then successfully complete a minimum of two academic years of study (three years of study if they also attain a Master’s Degree associated with research in their field). The orthodontic resident learns the skills required to manage tooth movement (orthodontics) and guide facial development (dentofacial orthopedics).  Only those who have successfully completed this formal education may call themselves “orthodontists.”

 Orthodontists limit their scope of treatment to orthodontics only.**  Orthodontists are uniquely qualified in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of orthodontic problems. They dedicate their professional lives to creating healthy, beautiful smiles in children, teens and adults.  Orthodontic care is often part of a comprehensive oral health plan.  Orthodontists use a variety of “appliances,” including braces, clear aligner trays and retainers, to move teeth or hold them in their new positions. Because of orthodontists’ advanced education and clinical experience, they have the knowledge and skills necessary to recommend the best kind of appliance to meet every individual patient’s treatment goals.  Only orthodontists are eligible for membership in the American Association of Orthodontists.

 *On average, there are about 15 applicants for every opening. **Unless they have also completed specialty education in another dental specialty recognized by the American Dental Association.

Today, nearly four million children in the United States and Canada are receiving treatment from members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). And while parents know that orthodontic treatment results in a healthy, beautiful smile, many don’t realize the important long-term health benefits.

As part of its commitment to education, the AAO provides parents with this list of answers to commonly asked questions about orthodontic care.

1.    Why is orthodontic treatment important?
A: Straight teeth and properly aligned jaws contribute to good dental health as well as overall physical health. Orthodontic treatment can boost a person’s self-image as teeth, lips and jaws move into position and improve appearance.

2.    How do parents know if their child needs orthodontic treatment?
A: The best way is to visit an orthodontist. The AAO recommends that all children get a check-up with an orthodontist no later than age seven.

3.    What if my child still has baby teeth at age seven? Should they still see an orthodontist?
A:  Yes.  By age 7, enough permanent teeth have arrived for orthodontists to evaluate how the teeth and jaws meet, and to identify current or developing problems.  If a problem is detected, the orthodontist and parents can discuss when treatment may be necessary.

4.    How does a child’s growth affect orthodontic treatment?
A: Treatment and growth often compliment each other. In some cases, the orthodontist takes advantage of a child’s growth to guide jaws and teeth into their ideal positions.

5.    How often do you visit your orthodontist while in orthodontic treatment?
A: Typically a child will see the orthodontist every 6-12 weeks throughout the course of treatment.

6.    If you currently don’t have an orthodontist, what is the best way to find someone to treat orthodontic problems?
A: To find an orthodontist near you, ask for a referral from your family dentist, your pediatrician or your child’s school nurse. Or you can visit www.braces.org and click on the Find an Orthodontist service. It is important to choose an orthodontist who is a member of the AAO.  Orthodontists receive an additional two to three years of specialized education beyond dental school to learn the proper way to align and straighten teeth.  Only those with this formal education may call themselves “orthodontists,” and only orthodontists may be members of the AAO.

7.    What is the average cost of orthodontic treatment?
A: Fees will vary, depending on the treatment needed.  Most orthodontists offer convenient payment plans, making treatment more affordable than ever.  Most orthodontists will work with you to find a plan that fits your family budget.  In addition, many patients have dental insurance that includes orthodontic benefits. Check with your employer’s human resources department to learn about your coverage.

To all of our patients and parents at Altherr Orthodontics, this year (2012) is 10 years that our practice has been in the Apex area!  Wow!  To celebrate our decade of helping create smiles, we will be having contests each month for our patients, and even their parents.  So, please look out for our newsletters or emails or visit our website or Facebook and Twitter pages.  Call us if you have any trouble receiving or going to these various media formats.  The following is a list of our events, contests and prizes for 2012:

 February- Altherr Idol Contest with the prize of $100.  Details on our website, Facebook and Twitter pages.

April- Altherr Orthodontics Car Magnet Contest with the prize of a $100 gift card to Scruffy Duck Car Wash for the spring pollen on your car.  We are handing out magnets now until mid April.  If we don't give you a magnet at your appointment, please come by and ask us for one.  We can also give you the details about this contest, etc. 

May- Mother’s Day Contest with the prize of free (100%) orthodontic treatment for one of our patient’s mom’s where the patient gives 10 reasons why your mom deserves or needs braces.

June- Father’s Day Contest with the prize of free (100%) orthodontic treatment for one of our patient’s dad’s where the patient gives 10 reasons why your dad deserves or needs braces.

 August- Summer Vacation Contest with a “Flat Dr. Altherr”.  3 categories with the winner of each group receiving a $75.  The categories are the furthest, funniest and most creative.  We will be handing out the Flat Dr. A’s starting in April.  Please take a picture with the flat Dr. A and either bring it in at your next appointment, email us or post it on our Facebook page to be entered into the contest.

On behalf of the entire team at Altherr Orthodontics, thank you for 10 great years!!!!!
Dr. Altherr