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.

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