How to Select a Skilled Orthodontist in Brooklyn

When you decide it’s time for you or your child to get braces, it’s important you leave no stone unturned in your search for a skilled orthodontist. Otherwise, you may end up wearing your braces for longer than you anticipated, or you may have to wear braces a second time to achieve the right result. That will cost you more money and inconvenience in the long run.

That’s because orthodontic cases can be complicated. Oftentimes, an orthodontist corrects more than just the aesthetic appearance of your teeth. A highly trained and skilled orthodontist can also devise a treatment plan that corrects bite abnormalities and directs the growth and development of a child’s mouth and jaw.

If you conduct an online search, you’ll likely turn up any number of orthodontic practices in your neighborhood. While there are many skilled orthodontists in the Brooklyn area area, it’s important to be comfortable with the orthodontic practice you select.

First, learn some basics about orthodontists.

How is a skilled orthodontist different from a general dentist?

An orthodontist is a dentist who has received specialized training in tooth movement, jaw function and facial aesthetics. An orthodontics training program takes several more years of education following the completion of dental school.

Some general dentists may offer to provide orthodontic treatment, but it’s probably best to find a board-certified orthodontist who is specially trained in the art and science of orthodontia.  Plus, skilled orthodontists perform this type of work on a daily basis, so they are able to practice and hone their craft.

While it’s best to find a skilled orthodontist to plan and execute your orthodontic treatment, you might feel more comfortable by allowing your general dentist to do the work. And some general dentists may have adequate experience in orthodontic treatments. Even so, you should check out their qualifications and expertise before you choose this course. You should also determine how complicated your case is before selecting a course of action. If you have a bite abnormality or more significant problem related to your facial structure, you should opt for a skilled orthodontist. Before deciding to allow a general dentist to perform your orthodontic treatment, seek a consultation with a skilled orthodontist first.

Get as many consultations as you like

Often, a general dentist will refer you directly to an orthodontist, but don’t feel obligated to use their services if you’re not comfortable with the proposed course of action. Friends may also point you to orthodontists they’ve used. Feel free to investigate these orthodontists and move forward with treatment if you’re comfortable. However, it’s best to get several opinions before moving forward.

All skilled orthodontists use the same tools of the trade, but their approach to your individual needs may differ. One orthodontist may recommend you have several teeth extracted, while another proposes another route. And if your case is complicated and will require dento-facial orthopedics or more in-depth treatment, you should certainly seek the advice of several skilled orthodontists to ensure you’ve been presented with all your options.

Most orthodontists provide free consultations, so don’t hesitate to seek as many consultations as you need until you feel comfortable with a skilled orthodontist.  During the consultation, the orthodontist will examine your teeth and mouth. A skilled orthodontist can identify what needs to be done, how long it might take, what types of braces are appropriate for you and provide an estimate of how much the treatment will cost.

Don’t worry about offending an orthodontist by getting multiple opinions about your orthodontic treatment. Orthodontists are professionals who understand you want to be thorough in your search for the right treatment plan.

What happens after I’ve selected a skilled orthodontist in Brooklyn?

After you’ve made a selection, the orthodontist will make a mold of your mouth and take panoramic x-rays and possibly photos of your face. These tools will help the orthodontist create a treatment plan tailored precisely to your mouth’s needs. After the orthodontist examines the mold and x-rays, he or she will develop a plan and ask you to return to the office. At that point, you’ll find out exactly what needs to be done and how much it will cost.

What are Dr. Al Janabi’s qualifications?

Dr. Al Janabi completed his dental surgery and orthodontics training at the State University of New York Stony Brook.  Dr. AlJanabi provides patients with traditional orthodontic treatment as well as dentofacial orthopedics, a method used to correct improper jaw alignment and bite abnormalities.

Dr. AlJanabi is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, New England Society of Orthodontists and the Bay Ridge Dental Society.

Dr. Al Janabi and the staff at Brooklyn Orthodontics are pleased to provide complimentary consultations. Please contact our office today to make an appointment.

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