These days, it’s easier than ever to find the information we need with just the click of a button or tap on a screen. While this is certainly convenient, it can also be a bit overwhelming at times! If you’re interested in learning more about orthodontic treatment for you or your child, for example, you may not be sure where to start. With so many providers to choose from, it can be tough to know what qualifications to look for, but Christian Manley Orthodontics is here to help!
The first step in any orthodontic journey begins with finding an orthodontist you can trust who will listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and make you feel comfortable from your first visit to the last. There’s a lot that goes into becoming an orthodontic specialist, so let’s take a look at how to find the right provider for you and your family! Keep reading below to learn more.
Education and training
Believe it or not, many people assume that dentists and orthodontists are more or less interchangeable. This is understandable since many dentists now offer certain orthodontic treatments, but there are actually several significant differences between the two. When you begin looking for a provider you can trust with your family’s smiles, it can be helpful to understand those differences!
If you imagine dentistry as an umbrella, then orthodontics is a specialty underneath it. Dentists and orthodontists are on a similar path until they complete dental school. At this point, most dentists will go into practice, while orthodontists take on three additional years of training and education. During this time, they learn how to diagnose, prevent, and correct misaligned teeth and jaws. There’s also a focus on:
- oral disease
- biomedical science and biomechanics
- successfully managing tooth movement and facial development using various orthodontic techniques
Dr. Manley is no stranger to the hard work it takes to become an orthodontist. He completed his pre-dental education at Walla Walla University before receiving his Doctor of Dental Surgery, Bachelor of Science in Human Biology, and Master’s degree in Orthodontics at Loma Linda University. He’s been carefully crafting stunning smiles for Issaquah and Sammamish families for nearly 30 years! As you can see, you’re putting your smile in the best hands when you choose Manley Orthodontics for all your orthodontic needs.
Honest answers
One of the questions we hear most often from prospective patients in our offices is “how long will my treatment take?” Unfortunately, there’s no “one size fits all” answer to this question. This is because every case is different and each patient will respond to treatment in their own way. The length of time that braces or clear aligners are needed will be related to the complexity of the case. Mild orthodontic issues won’t take as long to treat as more complex problems will.
That being said, when speaking with your orthodontist of choice, you can ask them for an estimated treatment time. This will give you a better idea of what you can expect from the orthodontic process. Regular check-ups are also an essential part of any treatment plan, so you may want to inquire about these to get a feel for how much time you’re likely to be spending in their office. Look for a doctor who will give you honest answers instead of simply telling you what they think you want to hear.
The same goes for discussions about the cost of treatment. When it comes to investing in a new smile, the last thing you want to encounter is hidden fees! The total cost for treatment will vary from case to case, so it’s important you understand everything that’s included in your treatment plan before moving forward. During your initial consultation with Manley Orthodontics, for example, a team member will walk you through all the applicable fees associated with your plan so there won’t be any unwelcome surprises before you begin treatment.
At Christian Manley Orthodontics, we believe everyone should have access to the high-quality orthodontic care they need. That’s why we offer a variety of affordable treatments and payment options to fit every budget! This includes in-house payment plans, third-party financing, and multi-family member discounts to help make your treatment more affordable.
If you have dental insurance, you may want to check with your provider to see if they cover a portion of your orthodontic treatment. We’ll ask for your dental insurance information when you schedule your consultation to help make your first visit with us as efficient and accurate as possible.
Multiple treatment options
There’s never been a better time to be an orthodontic patient with Manley Orthodontics! Modern technology and innovative new techniques mean orthodontists can offer a range of treatments to meet every patient’s unique needs. We’re proud to offer patients of all ages the following treatment options from our three conveniently located offices in Issaquah and Sammamish, WA.
Metal Braces
Today’s metal braces are leaps and bounds away from previous designs. The brackets are much smaller and no longer wrap around the entire tooth. Thinner archwires are used to move the teeth with more comfort and speed. The self-ligating Damon braces system eliminates the need for adjustments, meaning less pain and fewer office visits! Metal braces are a cost-effective option with a long track record of successfully treating a wide range of cases, from simple to complex.
Clear Braces
Clear braces are the same shape and size as metal braces but use transparent or tooth-colored brackets to blend in better with your natural smile. They provide an incredibly subtle way to straighten your smile. While the ceramic brackets are durable, they do tend to be a bit more prone to breakage than metal brackets. For this reason, we usually only recommend them for our teen and adult patients.
Invisalign Clear Aligner System
Instead of brackets and wires, Invisalign uses a series of clear removable aligners to move the teeth. These are made from a special thermoplastic resin and customized to fit over your teeth firmly but comfortably. Because they’re removable, they provide patients with a bit more freedom and flexibility than braces. They also allow you to brush, floss, and eat as you normally would! Invisalign can often be just as effective as braces when patients are fully compliant and wear the aligners exactly as directed by Dr. Manley.
Find the right orthodontist for your family at Christian Manley Orthodontics
If you’ve been looking for an orthodontic practice you can trust with your family’s smiles, you’ve come to the right place! At Christian Manley Orthodontics, we stand out from the crowd thanks to our world-class care, affordable treatment options, and a rewarding orthodontic experience from start to finish. To learn more about how we can help improve your family’s oral health, get in touch today to schedule your FREE consultation with Dr. Manley!