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Dentist vs Orthodontist for Invisalign?

asked 1 year ago by Ruthie4355
Latest answer by Robert Fields, DDS
Question viewed 1,339 times
Tags: comparison, dentist, Groupon, orthodontist

I bought a "Groupon" for invisalign treatment to save money, but the catch is I have to choose 1 out of 4 providers. I searched the dentists on the invisalign website, and I can either go to a Specialized Orthodontist who is premier preferred, meaning he "has achieved an exceptional level of Invisalign case experience" or I can go to a General Dentist who is Elite preferred, meaning he "has achieved an extraordinary level of Invisalign case experience" Who would you recommend?

9 answers to Dentist vs Orthodontist for Invisalign?

Be confident in your orthodontist or general dentist

Great question! A general dentist with Elite ranking clearly has a lot of Invisalign experience and may provide care comparable to that provided by an orthodontist. On the other hand an orthodontist with experience in using not only Invisalign but other treatment systems may have a broader approach that would serve you well -particularly if your treament needs are complex. I suggest arranging a consultation with both and selecting the person to do your treatment based on your comfort... more

R. William McNeill, DDS, MS
Mercer Island Orthodontist

General Dentist or Orthodontist for invisalign

You have found very qualified general dentists as well as qualified orthodontists on the invisalign site. They have a great deal of experience in invisalign treatment. They would all provide very good treatment; however, I would call their offices and set up a consultation with the dentists and see what the Dr. is like personally and how the staff and the office feels to you. Go on their websites and look for patient testimonials. You have done the research... more

Robert Fields, DDS
Los Angeles Cosmetic Dentist

Both Orthodontists and General Dentists can do great Invisalign work

There is no getting around that a specialist is trained for the specialty and very capable to perform their service. However, many general dentists are well trained in varying aspects of dentistry as well, including orthodontics. If the tool is the same (Invisalign) the result should be very similar, so the personality of the dentist comes into play. Since you will need frequent visits, decide who you trust and if you will be able to keep all the appointments needed.... more

Lance Timmerman, DMD
Seattle Cosmetic Dentist

If the price is the same...

All other things considered, and orthodontist should have the most training and ability to treat your crowding. On the other hand, they may or may not pay attention to the details of finishing the case. I have seen orthodontists who do in my opinion sub par work, yet they have more training (and would do better than I considering I don't have training). I think it was a matter of sloppyness, and I stopped referring my patients to him. Any dentist can do what it takes to learn to... more

M. Andrew Atwood, DDS
Bellevue Cosmetic Dentist

General Dentists are great for traditional cases...

Im a general dentist and I firmly believe that I do a great job with Invisalign cases within my capability. If you have a severe case or need teeth extracted before or during treatment then a Orthodontist would be a good choice. Orthodontists have been trained for years to do metal brackets and wires and now are adding Invisalign into their practices for the 21st century. So in some cases a general dentist or cosmetic dentist knows more about Invisalign than an orthodontist without any... more

Michael J. Thomas, DDS
Los Angeles Cosmetic Dentist

Skilled, experienced general dentist best especially for adults.

I have had an Orthodontist on my staff and have observed the progress and finished results of traditional Orthodontic care for 30+years and Invisalign cases for 14years. In my opinion a skilled, experienced, cosmetic general dentist is far superior to most orthodontists in delivering Invisalign. Among the skills requred to do Invisalign are the taking of extremely accurate Crown and Bridge type impressions, the placing, finishing, and polishing of color matched composite attachments... more

A. Vandiveer Strait, DDS
Wilton Cosmetic Dentist

Training counts when it comes to treatment

I won't dismiss the fact the the general dentist has had more cases of invisaling but the orthodontic training counts for a whole lot more. The orthodontist is able to handle more complex cases. The idea of an ideal occlusion is better realized with an orthontist and will better understand how to achieve it. The experience that I have had as an orthodontist in my area is seeing general dentists lining up 6 front teeth and leaving or ignoring a deep bite or a large... more

R. Scott Smith, DMD
Springfield Orthodontist

There is a big difference!

There are obviously both orthodontists and general dentists With varying levels of Invisalign experience. Some general dentists have more experience and therefore achieve better results than some orthodontists who choose not to do Invisalign treatment. But, in general if you want your teeth straightened properly, an orthodontist has the proper training and experience to evaluate and treat the entire problem. That is why they are orthodontic SPECIALISTS... more

Doug Depew, DMD
Atlanta Orthodontist

Which Dentist to Choose for Invisalign

The titles are nice, but you also want someone you relate to and trust. I suggest a consult with both dentists and follow your instincts. They can, most likely, both complete the orthodontics well.

Mickey Bernstein, DDS
Memphis Cosmetic Dentist

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