All Orthodontists are Dentists, but Only 5% of Dentists are Orthodontists



People oftentimes interchange the terms “dentist” and “orthodontist”. This is the reason why most of the patients schedule appointments on the wrong clinics and thus, they end up being referred to other specialists. To make things clear, dentists and orthodontists are not the same. Orthodontists specialized in the field of orthodontics after they graduated from dentistry. This means that all orthodontists are dentists but only 5% of dentists are orthodontists. In order to have a clearer point of view with the two terms being discussed, read below for their detailed comparison and descriptions.

Dentistry

Dentistry is a wide branch of medicine that involves the study as well as diagnosis and prevention of different diseases and conditions pertaining to oral health. The coverage of dentistry also includes the maxillofacial area, its adjacent structures, and the impact or effects they have on the human body. Dentistry is an essential part in achieving a good overall health of every person thus oral health concerns should not be taken lightly. The one who practices dentistry is called a dentist and the dentist’s supporting team consists of dental hygienist, dental assistants, dental therapist, and dental technicians.

The most common dental treatments in which dentists attend to includes tooth decay (dental carries) and gum disease (periodontal disease). They are commonly treated by extractions, dental fillings, or root canals. In severe cases, tooth extractions require surgery.

In order to become a dentist, you must complete at least two years of undergraduate studies or a bachelor’s degree. Once these requirements are completed, you must then undergo four years of dental schooling in order to qualify as a Doctor of Dental Medicine or Doctor of Dental Surgery. Furthermore, to be able to perform more complex treatments, one must undergo additional training in sedation, dental implants, and maxillofacial surgery.

Orthodontics

On the other hand, orthodontics refers to the specialty of dentistry that involves the treatment, study, and diagnosis of tooth irregularity, malocclusions, or disproportionate jaws. Orthodontic treatments deal with modification and control of facial growth as well as dental displacements. Orthodontic treatments commonly utilized different appliances in order to correct teeth misalignments or jaw problems. Among these devices are palatal expanders and braces. Palatal expanders are used to correct disproportionate jaws. Basically, it helps in creating more space on the upper jaw for the crowded teeth to align properly and fit into the lower jaw teeth. Braces on the other hand focus on correcting the positions of teeth. It works by applying gentle pressure on the teeth through the appliances which moves the teeth over the course of the treatment.

Aside from the cosmetic benefits of orthodontic treatments, it can also help patients improve the functionality of their teeth in order to chew their food properly, speak fluently, or smile flawlessly. Coupled with the latest technology of clear and ceramic aligners, surely you can improve your smile without someone noticing you are undergoing an orthodontic treatment. Put into simple words, patients won’t have to sacrifice the look of their current smile in order to have a perfect one in the future.

Dentists vs. Orthodontists

Comparing dentists and orthodontists can be done easily as each of them has clear boundaries. Since orthodontics is a specialty in dentistry, this means that orthodontists can do everything that a dentist can do however dentists can’t do everything that orthodontists can do.

Hence, if you are looking for someone who can take care of both of your overall oral health as well as some teeth alignment problems, then orthodontists are the ones to approach. Always remember, all orthodontists are dentists but only 5% of dentists are orthodontists. 

To see an orthodontist today, call 252-727-0020 or visit www.sanbornorthodontics.com for a complimentary consultation!!!

Happy Earth Day 2013

The idea for Earth Day was the brainchild of Gaylord Nelson, a senator from Wisconsin. He envisioned an Earth Day that would be a kind of environmental teach-in. The first Earth Day celebration took place on April 22, 1970, and a surprising 20 million people participated on that day. Ultimately, it became the largest organized celebration in US history.

Earth Day Over the Years
Over the years, the recognition of the day, and the number of people celebrating it all over the world, turned Earth Day into an international celebration. Because it is celebrated throughout the world, it is not only the largest international environmental observation, but it is also more widely celebrated than any other environmental event in the world. Today, Earth Day is celebrated in 175 countries where over 500 million people participate in celebrations.

The Earth Day Movement
The Earth Day movement is credited with developing the idea that people should “think green”. It encouraged congress to enact laws, including one that resulted in the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency. It also inspired the passage of the Endangered Species Act.

The Five R's and Their Importance

• Reduce – Reduce by avoiding unnecessary purchases. Reduce your use of materials that wind up in landfills. Reduce the use of chemicals around your house. Reduce your use of disposable bags, plates, cups, eating utensils, and batteries.
• Reuse – Instead of using plastic bags for your groceries or purchases, bring your own reusable bags. When you go to buy coffee at Starbucks, take a travel mug so you don't have to get your coffee in a disposable paper cup. Instead of storing food in disposable refrigerator containers, buy containers that can be washed and reused. Don't use regular batteries. Whenever possible, opt for rechargeable batteries that you can reuse.
• Recycle – Most cities offer a recycling program to collect used bottles, cans, and newspapers. Recycling includes collecting recyclable materials that would otherwise be considered waste, sorting and processing recyclables into raw materials such as fibers and manufacturing raw materials into new products.
• Re-buy – Make an effort to purchase things that are made through recycling. When purchasing furniture, look for items that are made from reclaimed wood. When buying paper for kids school work, computer printer paper, holiday cards, or anything else, make a point of purchasing recycled paper products. Instead of buying clothing at full retail price, shop for second hand clothing. You will save a lot of money by doing so!
• Rethink – Rethink the way you do things so that you do them in an eco-conscious way at all times. Instead of driving to work alone, consider taking the bus or going in a carpool. Walk or ride your bike when you're only going a short distance. Plan your shopping trips and errand runs so that you can do everything on one day, and do it in a way where you can save time and gas.

Other ways to "think green" include growing your own food, composting yard waste and food scraps, or by participating in local recycling programs. Join a group like Freecycle so you can share your unneeded and unwanted possessions with people who can use them. Likewise, you'll be able to get things you need or want for free.

Earth Day teaches people that the planet belongs to everyone, so everyone is equally responsible for protecting it. Although Earth Day is an environmental celebration, the orthodontic of team at Sanborn Orthodontics wants to remind you that you don't have to wait until then to make changes that will allow you and your family to live a greener life.

Happy Earth Day from the team at Sanborn Orthodontics!!!

Ask Dr. Robert Sanborn: "What should I ask during my orthodontic consultation?"

If you have been thinking about undergoing orthodontic treatment to straighten teeth or correct jaw alignment, the first step is scheduling an orthodontic consultation at Sanborn Orthodontics. During the consultation we will actively listen to your concerns and address all of your questions, as well as discuss a treatment options that would best suit you or your child's situation.

Here are your top five questions that most patients want answered during their initial orthodontic consultation:

• Can I benefit from orthodontic treatment, and if so, how long will it take?
• How frequently will my appointments be scheduled?
• Can I expect any pain when getting braces? (Ask Dr. Robert Sanborn about the ways we address pain management).
• Will I need to have teeth extracted, headgear, expansion appliance, etc. ?
• How much will it cost and what payment options do you offer?

Visit our website for more answers to your questions prior to your initial consulation.
Dr. Robert Sanborn and our team at Sanborn Orthodontics are happy to answer all your questions and concerns, and we are happy to explain all aspects of your treatment plan, as well as the expected outcome. We believe your orthodontic experience should be comfortable, hassle-free, and most importantly, leave you with the smile you've always wanted!!!