8 Things to Know

1

Orthodontists are professionals who completed dental school and received training from a certified orthodontic residency program. They specialize in improving your teeth and jaw alignment. We recommend you choose an orthodontist who is an affiliate of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) so you can remain confident you will receive quality work.

2

Legislation in certain areas of the United States prevent dentists from misleading patients into thinking they are dental specialists if they haven’t completed the required continuing education for a dental specialty that’s approved by the American Dental Association. It has become commonplace in some areas for general dentists to claim proficiency with orthodontic treatments, and it is important to understand the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist.

3

Although all orthodontists are dentists, all dentists are not orthodontists. You or your child may experience more specialized care and a wider range of treatment options from a professional orthodontist than a general dentist.

4

Next you should try to look for a recognized specialist who studied from a curriculum which was approved and authorized by the American Dental Association.

5

Few people are aware that you don’t need a referral from a dentist to schedule an orthodontist appointment. In fact, almost half of our patients contacted our practice first due to our reputation for providing excellent care.

6

Sometimes children are not ready for a treatment. If an orthodontic treatment is not necessary at your child’s initial consultation, our doctor recommends that the procedure is postponed until it’s convenient and appropriate to resume.

7

Before you make a final selection, ask if the orthodontist you are considering expects to change his or her location soon. There is a strong possibility your orthodontic work will require a long-term commitment, especially since most active orthodontic treatments take at least two years and additional time is needed for retention follow-up. If your orthodontist moves away before you or your child finish treatment, it could result in undesirable outcomes, a prolonged treatment process, or the need to find a new orthodontist to complete the treatment.

8

Dr. Pat Cuozzo received his dental degree from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry and a certificate of specialty in orthodontics from the University of Pennsylvania. He earned his Board Certification from the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO), which is recognized by the American Dental Association. Dr. Pat is an experienced orthodontist who has been in practice well over ten years.