As parents ourselves, the team here at Foothill Orthodontics knows that you want the best for you and your family. That includes high-quality oral care and healthy, beautiful smiles! Moreover, your oral health plays a massive contributing role in your overall health, and the confidence that comes with a beautiful smile can be life-changing. Understandably, when starting their journey to a better smile, many people consider visiting their family dentist for an orthodontic evaluation. However, there are many reasons why you should trust your smile to a qualified orthodontist!
Dr. Chandler and Dr. Anderson provide expert orthodontic care to patients of all ages in Foothill, Holladay, and the surrounding area. Our team is highly trained and has the experience necessary to give families like yours superior care and outstanding results. Understanding the differences between a general dentist and an orthodontist will help you make an informed decision about which option is best for you and your family. Keep reading below to learn more!
Education, training, and experience
Dentists and orthodontists both begin their careers in dental school, but their paths diverge after graduation. Dentists go on to practice general dentistry, while orthodontists must complete two to three years of additional specialized learning and training in how to identify and treat misalignment of the teeth and jaws. During this time, they will:
- study the growth and maturation of a child’s mouth,
- learn biomechanical techniques to successfully move the teeth with braces and aligners,
- develop their diagnostic skills, and
- work on numerous case studies.
As you can see, it takes a lot to become an orthodontist! Though all dentists receive some basic orthodontic training in dental school, and are very capable at treating issues related to oral hygiene, most general dentists will not possess the high level of orthodontic training and experience required to perform advanced orthodontic treatment.
Many dentists will sharpen their skills with continuing education seminars and workshops. The downside to this, of course, is that workshops and seminars just can’t cover the same extensive, in-depth material as the years of specialized training of an orthodontist. Dentists with orthodontic experience will still lack the level of formal education and training of a dedicated orthodontist like Dr. Chandler or Dr. Anderson.
More treatment options for your smile
If your family dentist offers basic orthodontic care, we understand that you would want to consider them as your first choice. After all, you most likely already have a relationship with them, and it’s normal to want to turn to people whom you already know. However, before you choose your general dentist for treatment, you should consider the benefits of choosing an experienced orthodontic team. These include:
- a wider variety of treatment options, including metal braces, clear braces, and Invisalign clear aligners
- a customized treatment plan created just for you based on your unique needs, lifestyle, and desired results
- more efficient treatments and visits, since orthodontics is their main focus
- the best possible outcome for your smile, especially if your case is complex or severe
At Foothill Orthodontics, our main focus is orthodontic care. Dr. Chandler and Dr. Anderson perform teeth-straightening procedures daily and work hard to keep their skills sharp. Our entire team stays current on the latest in industry practices by regularly attending continuing education courses, and our Foothill and Holladay offices are equipped with the latest orthodontic equipment so that we can provide you with high-quality care and exceptional results!
Specialized care produces the best smiles
As the patient, it’s your right to choose the healthcare provider you feel most comfortable with. But when it comes to the way your smile looks and feels, we think it makes sense to find an orthodontist who has specialized education and training in how to move your teeth safely and effectively. While some dentists may be able to provide orthodontic services, Dr. Anderson and Dr. Chandler have years of experience in creating beautifully aligned, healthy smiles.
Dr. Chandler attended dental school at the University of Nebraska. While he was a student, he received numerous clinical and academic awards and was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Dental Honors Society. After graduating at the top of his class, Dr. Chandler was invited to continue his education at the University of Nebraska Orthodontic Residency Program. While completing his specialty training in orthodontics, Dr. Chandler earned a Masters Degree by completing award-winning research on the biologic and genetic variables that increase the speed of orthodontic treatment. More importantly, he developed a deep passion for the delicate blend of art and science essential to excellent orthodontic care. Dr. Chandler joined Foothill Orthodontics in 2006 and has had the honor of helping thousands of children, teens and adults improve their health with a beautiful smile.
Dr. Anderson graduated Summa Cum Laude from Brigham Young University, after which he attended dental school at the University of Iowa. As a dental student, he scored in the 97th percentile nationwide on both the National Board Dental Exam Parts I and II. He loved earning his orthodontic specialty training at the University of Minnesota, and his passion for orthodontics led him to create the continuing education group Orthodontic Pearls—the largest group of orthodontic specialists in the world, where he enjoys teaching, learning and interacting with colleagues and friends.
Seeking care from experienced orthodontists like Dr. Chandler and Dr. Anderson can help you avoid any unnecessary complications during your treatment. Orthodontists are more likely to notice small issues that a general dentist may overlook, and will recommend an appropriate treatment plan for your unique set of needs. This can reduce treatment times and lessen the chance of any complications. The treatment plan itself will be time-effective, affordable, and built around your unique smile.
Trust Foothill Orthodontics with your family’s smiles
When you trust your smile to an experienced orthodontist, you can be confident you’ll receive the best possible care. Our talented team offers the highest quality care, the latest treatments, and the most innovative technology. Since our only focus is orthodontics, we’re able to focus on giving our patients nothing but the best treatment, service, and results!
We strive to provide a welcoming environment and unmatched service from your first appointment to your last! Are you ready to take the first step towards a healthier smile? We’d love to meet you! When you schedule your free initial consultation at our Foothill or Holladay office, you’ll receive a thorough evaluation by Dr. Chandler or Dr. Anderson. Following your exam, we’ll provide you with a diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
This is a no-pressure visit! Even if you decide not to begin your orthodontic treatment right away, our team will be happy to answer any questions or address any concerns you have to help you make the best choice for your smile.
Your family deserves a lifetime of healthy smiles! Get in touch today to schedule your in-office or virtual exam.
