Orthodontist vs. General Dentist In The Woodlands TX

We have come to realize that there are a lot of misunderstandings about the difference between a General Dentist and an Orthodontist in The Woodlands TX. Unfortunately, there are many general dentists out there that will say that they specialize in Orthodontics. To put it simply, it’s education and experience. All orthodontists complete the same education as a general dentist, attending a 3 to 4 year dental school.

After graduation, the dentists may apply to an American Dental Association-approved, university-affiliated program. Over 400 dentists apply and less then 7 will be accepted. In San Antonio Texas where Dr. Shao attended the program, only 4 will make it to the orthodontic residence program. In Houston, 6 will make it into the program. The orthodontic Residency program is 2-3 years of hands-on clinical experience. These residencies dedicate between 4,000 to 6,000 hours of working on patients that have various types of cases. When the residents graduate they have earned the well respected title of orthodontist.

Board Certification Process For Orthodontists In The Woodlands TX

Only 25% of orthodontists decided to take the next rigorous step to become a board-certified orthodontist. This is the highest achievement possible.

When you have a choice, choose a board-certified specialist!

If you would like to know more about what it means to be a board certified orthodontist and you are near The Woodlands TX please stop in and Dr. Shao would be more than happy to talk with you. If you want to know if the orthodontist you are seeing is board certified check the link below! You deserve a beautiful smile!

https://www.americanboardortho.com/patients/orthodontist-locator/