dentist

Seeing a Dentist While In Braces

November 5th, 2021

Seeing a Dentist While In BracesEven though it may seem like you’re in the dental exam chair a lot while you’re in braces (or clear aligners), seeing the orthodontist is not the same thing as seeing your regular dentist. Keep reading to find out why.

The Difference in an Orthodontist and Dentist

Both of these dental professionals play a big part in keeping mouths healthy and improving your oral health, but in different ways. A dentist covers a broad range of dental problems, specializing in teeth, gums, nerves, and jaws. A large part of general dentistry is treating or preventing tooth decay. Orthodontists are specialists who focus on correcting the alignment of teeth. This may include correcting bites, occlusion, and/or the straightness of one’s teeth.

Why See Both

While you’re wearing braces, it’s vitally important that you keep up with your regular dental checkups. Even though Dr. Cox went to dental school before diving into his specialty, your orthodontist appointments will not include a regular cleaning or an exam of the overall health of your teeth. Keeping up with your twice-a-year dental checkups while you’re in braces will allow for you to have your teeth professionally cleaned as well as check for tooth decay or other dental problems.

Brushing and Flossing with Braces

Braces and other orthodontic treatments play a big part in your overall dental health. But there is one potential drawback if you aren’t careful – brushing and flossing can be a bit more difficult with braces on. It’s a small risk, but one that doesn’t need to be ignored. Brackets and wires can make it hard to get food particles out from in between your teeth. Leaving food or sugar on your teeth for a prolonged time can lead to tooth decay or cavities. Keeping up with your dental appointments is the very best way to make sure that any problems are spotted early. Your general dentist is also able to spot any gum problems that an orthodontist isn’t looking for at your exam.

A Team Effort

Orthodontists and dentists work hand-in-hand to keep your teeth, mouth, and gums healthy. The goal of our entire team – and of good general dentist offices – is to always make sure our patients get a well-rounded approach to oral health!

Do I Need a Dentist Referral?

January 20th, 2015

Not everyone has their own family dentist and many people forget about mentioning orthodontic work during their regular dentist appointments. The good news about coming to Pridemore and Cox Orthodontics is that you don't need to have any type of referral in order to book an appointment or to learn more.

Although there are some patients that come into our orthodontic office directly from a dentist referral a great deal of the people that we see in our offices are referred by other orthodontic patients and simply from finding our website online or through our advertising. If you are ever curious or concerned about your oral health it's important to set up an orthodontics consultation directly by calling our office.

You might feel a bit intimidated by the concept of price for orthodontic treatment but it is important to note that many health plans will cover the cost of orthodontic treatment, you’re financing in treatment options available and in all cases we will offer up the initial consultation for orthodontic treatment completely free of charge.

This means that you can have all of your questions answered, a recommendation for orthodontic treatment and an assessment of your oral health all at no risk to you and completely free of charge. To book a free consultation contact our office today. Regardless of whether you have a family dentist or dental referral Pridemore and Cox orthodontics is available to help you!