An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed a minimum of two years full-time additional graduate training beyond dental school and general practice. Orthodontists are trained to evaluate and correct problems related to the development and positions of the teeth and jaws. There is a lot more to orthodontics than retainers, braces and wires. That is why the specialty is actually known as Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics. A clinical scientific research project and thesis is a requirement to receive specialist status in Ontario. During our training, a multitude of orthodontic patients are treated including those requiring jaw surgery, cleft lip and palate and those with complex dentofacial abnormalities.
The consumer must be aware that the orthodontic specialist is extensively trained, provincially licensed and certified by the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario, to have the skills, expertise and experience to provide consistent quality orthodontic care.
The orthodontic specialist works in conjunction with your family dentist, and if required other dental specialists, to provide comprehensive care in a team approach.
When making decisions regarding their dental and health care, we recommend that patients be completely informed of the benefits and risks involved in the treatment choices that are suggested. As orthodontists, our knowledge and experience is available for the asking and we will do our utmost to explain any aspect of treatment or care. As professionals, we are always striving to improve our techniques and modalities of care, all the time being aware of the scientific principles behind our treatment decisions. Your well-being comes first.