Invisalign Treatment in The Woodlands, TX: Why Choose an Orthodontist Over a Dentist?

When it comes to getting Invisalign in The Woodlands, one of the first questions people ask is whether they should work with an orthodontist or a dentist. While there are similarities between these two types of medical professionals, there are also some significant differences you should know about.

Let’s dive into what you need to know when choosing between an orthodontist or dentist for Invisalign treatment in The Woodlands.

Differences Between Orthodontists vs Dentists

The distinct similarity when comparing an orthodontist and a dentist is both of these individuals are doctors focused on oral care — including teeth, gums, jaw, and nerves. An orthodontist is trained and qualified to handle entirely the same care as a dentist. On the other hand, most dentists are not trained in orthodontic practices.

As we take a closer look at the differences between orthodontists vs dentists, it comes down to training, education, and specialty. The majority of dentists focus solely on oral health, which includes cleaning teeth, repairing cavities, taking care of root canals, extractions, and beyond.

Orthodontists are able to handle all of these treatments as well but instead focus on correcting crooked teeth, fixing bites, occlusions, and other alignment issues. They typically need to attend an accredited orthodontics program for a minimum of two years of specialized education. This gives them the background and training they need to take on these types of oral concerns.

Qualifications for Invisalign Treatment

When someone requires dental care, such as a root canal or a wisdom tooth extraction, they usually search for a dentist. Alternatively, when someone is interested in braces or Invisalign, the more common option is to work with a specialized orthodontist.

The process for becoming certified in Invisalign follows four steps:

1. Go through the orientation

Every professional who wants Invisalign certification must go through an initial orientation with an Invisalign Onboarding Specialist. The orthodontist or dentist will then go through an online learning module that prepares them for the upcoming course.

2. Complete the professional education course

The primary education course includes eight hours of training that can be completed either virtually or in person. This includes training for the medical assistants who will be helping with the Invisalign treatment process. To pass, the dentist or orthodontist must earn seven continuing education credit hours that are approved by the Academy of General Dentistry Program Approval for Continuing Education (AGD PACE).

3. Use post-course support

Following the course completion, orthodontists get an additional ninety days of support from their specialist as they learn the system, products, and other aspects of using Invisalign. This support may include additional training sessions with the team, after which a territory manager will be assigned for long-term support.

4. Continued learning practices

As with most industries, orthodontics is constantly changing, which means keeping up with the most up-to-date Invisalign practices is essential. Orthodontists regularly go through new courses, in-person classes, and other learning modules to stay in the know. They can earn additional CE credits as they complete these sessions and complete Invisalign treatments. The more the medical professional accomplishes, they’re able to meet higher tiers of service as they grow from being bronze providers all the way up to being a Diamond Plus Provider.

Why Choose an Orthodontist for Invisalign Treatment in The Woodlands

Both orthodontists and dentists can become certified to treat with Invisalign. But due to their additional education, orthodontists are frequently chosen as the more desirable providers. Their background in treating crooked teeth and other misalignments makes them more qualified as they monitor the process from start to finish.

Invisalign clear aligners are a popular option available for people looking into smile correction. If you’d like to work with the top Invisalign orthodontist in The Woodlands, then look no further than Dr. Kendra Pratt Manning, a Board-Certified family orthodontist.

Get in touch with our team to learn more, or book a consultation today!