A successful orthodontic treatment experience isn’t just about receiving professional and gentle care. You also need to trust that your doctor and orthodontic team have your best interests in mind and heart.
But what else should you be asking? To help you begin your orthodontic journey, we’ve put together this list of questions to ask before committing to an orthodontic practice for treatment.
You would think this is a no-brainer for your decision-making, but you might also be surprised to find out that just because your dentist offers orthodontic treatment that doesn’t mean they are specially trained in orthodontics. Many general dentists also provide braces treatment and clear aligner therapy in addition to standard dental services such as cleanings, fillings, crowns, and dentures. While an orthodontist, on the other hand, specializes only in providing orthodontic services.
After a dentist has completed their undergraduate medical education, they must attend a graduate school specifically for dentistry and pass a certification exam before beginning their general dentistry work. The same goes for orthodontists, except they must attend an extremely competitive orthodontic residency program after their general dentistry certification. These programs typically last another 2 to 3 years and include full-time training meaning the orthodontist has:
While there are some exceptions, most dentists simply will not possess this level of in-depth orthodontic training and experience. If you are looking for foundational oral health maintenance, trust your dentist. But, if you need specialized orthodontic care, you can trust that Dr. Evan Wilson, D.D.S., M.S., P.A. is a certified orthodontist and has proven himself by achieving the highest level of intensive experience, including being recognized as a top orthodontist and one of America’s Top Dentists by Texas Monthly magazine. At Wilson Orthodontics, the relationship between the patient and doctor is truly a partnership in striving for a common goal: to achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile that will last a lifetime!
Most patients we treat opt for traditional metal braces to straighten their teeth, and while this is the most common option, you have several other options available to reach your smile goals quickly and effectively. By pairing state-of-the-art technology with our thorough understanding of the movement during facial growth, Wilson Orthodontics can successfully treat many dental issues based on your unique needs and goals using T3 Metal braces and Radiance Plus clear braces by American Orthodontics, Invisalign, and Invisalign Teen.
Traditional metal braces are the most widely used type of fixed orthodontic appliance. Though past incarnations have been bulky, awkward, and painful, Dr. Wilson prefers the T3 metal brackets, which are smaller, lighter, and more comfortable than traditional metal brackets. Our advanced braces are made for efficient tooth movement and optimal patient comfort that is unparalleled in speed and accuracy. No two people are alike, and our variety of colored ties allows you to truly individualize your orthodontic experience and match your style.
Our clear braces use the same process as metal braces, but instead of a stainless steel bracket, the Radiance Plus brackets are smaller than ever and made of nearly invisible, purely grown sapphire crystals. This material is one of the strongest substances found in nature, second only to diamond, making these clear braces just as durable as traditional models. The inconspicuous aesthetic makes clear braces a common choice for teenagers and older patients who do not like the appearance of the metal look especially when paired with clear, white, or tooth-colored wires and elastic ties. Some patients have used colored ligature ties with the clear Radiance Plus brackets to give an almost neon look that really pops!
Unlike traditional braces, orthodontic treatment with Invisalign doesn’t rely on a system of metal or ceramic brackets and wires. Instead, Invisalign uses 3-D computer technology to create a custom-fit series of invisible, removable acrylic trays that straighten your teeth by applying steady pressure on your teeth as you wear them. They are replaced every 1 to 2 weeks to make this adjustment gradually. Though you can remove them to eat and brush your teeth, you will need to wear them about 22 hours a day to be effective.
At Wilson Orthodontics, we are also excited to offer Invisalign Teen. This option works the same as standard Invisalign, but the trays have a small dot on the back to indicate adequate wear to help your teen stay accountable for their treatment. And, since we all know how forgetful and rough teens can be, this option also provides a greater number of trays to cover those inconveniences.
While your exact follow-up timing will vary depending on the orthodontic treatment plan you and our expert team determine is right for you, we will schedule most patients’ adjustment appointments for about every four to eight weeks. Patients using Invisalign may be seen slightly less frequently, but regardless, these appointments are crucial for your overall orthodontic process!
The average process will take anywhere from 12 to 36 months to achieve your perfect smile, but visible results are evident as early as the first few months with most treatment plans. We know you’re busy, and we value your time, just give us a heads up if you’re running late or need to reschedule, but don’t forget that your participation in the follow-up care is just as meaningful.
Wilson Orthodontics is your location for modern orthodontic treatment. Our Frisco office is centrally located to serve our community better. Our office is surrounded by various dining and shopping options, allowing you to fit your check-ups into your everyday routine. We value the relationship we build with you and your family throughout your orthodontic treatment journey. We want you to be confident you are receiving the best orthodontic care.
At Wilson Orthodontics, we strive to go above and beyond for every patient. Our supportive and caring team works passionately with you to reach your smile goals.
We prioritize patient education here because you should always know what’s going on with your treatment. We believe in providing high-quality services and lifelong smiles. Since 1999, Dr. Wilson and his team have helped create over 5,000 brilliant smiles around Plano, The Colony, Prosper, McKinney, Celina, and Little Elm, TX. So, we know you deserve an experienced orthodontist that helps you feel empowered from your first appointment to your last retainer checkup.
There’s never been a better time to reach for the smile you’ve always wanted, so get in touch today to schedule your FREE consultation with our expert team!