LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – Picking a doctor from the array of options is complicated enough, but add in another decision—choosing between an orthodontist and a dentist—and the options multiply. Dr. David Alpan, a Las Vegas braces expert, offers four reasons why he suggests patients choose an orthodontic specialist for crafting their new smile instead of a general dentist.

1.Specialists receive specialized education.

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who completed a bachelor’s degree and dental school, just like a general dentist. But after that education, an orthodontist completed an additional two to three years of specialized education accredited by the American Dental Association in orthodontics.

“Whereas a general dentist might take a couple courses and begin using braces at his or her practice, an orthodontist spent a couple years developing and practicing the in-depth techniques to properly manage tooth movement and guide facial development,” says Dr. Alpan, a Las Vegas Invisalign provider.

2.Specialists continue training and researching their field.

The state mandates that all dental professionals complete continuing education through online courses, conferences and seminars to maintain licensure. Orthodontists choose options about the latest tools, treatment techniques, scientific research and business practices relevant to their orthodontics, while dentists choose the same for general dentistry.

“Because of state requirements for continuing education, the discrepancy between orthodontists and dentists in specialized orthodontic education, training and research only becomes more apparent,” says Las Vegas orthodontics specialist Dr. Alpan.

3.Specialists only practice orthodontics

“Dentists might treat a dozen patients with braces each year, while orthodontists spend every day, all day, straightening teeth and guiding facial development for patients using braces and other orthodontic appliances,” says Dr. Alpan, who owns Aesthetic Orthodontics in Las Vegas, NV.

4.Specialists know more than cosmetics

While patients might be more confident about their teeth and smile after undergoing orthodontic treatment, the most important benefit is a healthier mouth, according to Las Vegas, NV braces specialist Dr. Alpan. Crooked and crowded teeth can lead to tooth decay, gum disease and possibly tooth loss. An improper bite interferes with chewing and speaking, can cause abnormal wear to tooth enamel and can lead to problems with the jaws.

Dentists might be able to straighten teeth, but they are not experts in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Therefore they cannot insure the proper form and function of a patient’s bite like an orthodontist, such as Las Vegas braces expert Dr. Alpan.

“Really, the bottom line is that dentists focus on restoring, replacing and repairing teeth, not aligning them, which is why I always recommend patients choose orthodontists for orthodontics,” says Dr. Alpan, a Las Vegas invisible braces specialist.