The Truth About Adding Orthodontics as a General Dentist

General dentists provide a wide range of treatments, but they are often hesitant to expand into the field of orthodontics. In many cases, that hesitation is based on a few common misconceptions and rumors floating around the industry.

On that note, let’s take a look at 5 of these myths and what the actual truth is for each case:

Myth 1: Only specialists can offer orthodontic treatment.

One of the most common fallacies regarding orthodontics is that only specialists can offer these treatments. While it’s true that some cases should be referred to a specialist, there are many more cases in which general dentists are able to provide orthodontic treatment so long as they’ve obtained the proper accredited training.

That doesn’t mean earning another degree, but instead pursuing the same kinds of continuing education (CE) courses you likely already take for your annual licensing requirements. In particular, you can choose straight wire courses to obtain valuable skills for your practice.

The right course will prepare you for the entire treatment process, letting you carry out the required diagnosis, planning, and application to handle a wide range of cases.

Myth 2: It’s too complicated to learn.

Orthodontics can seem intimidating at first, and it’s no surprise that there are a variety of specialized skills and knowledge you’ll need to develop. However, general dentists are well equipped to face these challenges and have an existing skill set that leaves them prepared to adapt to these new treatments.

Choosing the right course is also a key factor in how challenging developing orthodontic skills will be. A course delivered by an experienced instructor with a solid curriculum and hands-on training goes a long way to ensure a smooth and successful professional development process.

Countless general and pediatric dentists are already using straight wire techniques across the U.S. and around the world. Building these skills is achievable with the right guidance, and it’ll help broaden the horizons of both your career and your practice.

Myth 3: It won’t fit into my current schedule.

Scheduling is an ongoing challenge for general dentists. You may feel that you are already overwhelmed with your patient flow, thus making the addition of new treatment options pointless. However, that simply isn’t the case; even for a busy schedule, orthodontic options are a welcome addition.

Here’s why: You’ll still maintain control over your case selection, and even if you do find yourself in a situation where you don’t have the capacity for a case, you can always refer it to a specialist, just as you do now. The only difference is that you’ll have the opportunity to take on cases you are comfortable with.

Orthodontic treatment plans also provide consistent appointments throughout treatment. That makes it easier to plan and schedule in comparison to the demand for general dentistry, which can ebb and flow at any point.

Myth 4: There’s no demand from my patients.

You might think that your patients would prefer to see a specialist as opposed to seeking out orthodontic treatment through your practice, but that’s rarely the case. If your patients were to face orthodontic issues that are within your ability to treat, chances are good that they’d choose to stick with your practice.

Going to an unfamiliar specialist isn’t something patients look forward to; it can be an inconvenient (and even intimidating) prospect, especially for families with busy schedules. With a solid foundation, you can instill confidence in your patients that you can deliver the treatment(s) they need.

Myth 5: It won’t be profitable.

As a general dentist, you’re responsible for both providing care and running a business. Some, therefore, believe that orthodontic cases aren’t worth it financially, but—like every other myth on this list—that simply isn’t true. Many orthodontic treatments have excellent margins compared to other general dental procedures.

The benefit that these services can provide in terms of patient retention can be even stronger. Orthodontic treatments take place over a longer period than other procedures and also require follow-up visits, which can help anchor your practice as the patient’s dental home. Of course, the satisfaction they get from a straight and healthy smile will also make them more likely to come back.

Discover how orthodontics can improve your practice.

Adding orthodontic treatment options to your practice can help you provide better care for your patients and unlock new sources of revenue. You can develop the knowledge and skills you need for these treatments with the right orthodontic CE course. Take advantage of the variety of quality courses delivered by widely respected instructor Brad Williams, DDS, to build the best foundation for your practice.