Do Family Dentists Do Braces and Orthodontics?

When it comes to maintaining healthy smiles, many families turn to Somerset family dentistry for routine checkups, cleanings, and preventive care. But what happens when someone in the family needs braces or orthodontic treatment?

What Is Family Dentistry?

Family dentistry focuses on providing complete dental care to individuals of all ages—from children to seniors. When you search for dentistry at Somerset, you’ll often find services like:

• Regular checkups and cleanings

• Cavity and gum disease treatment

• Preventive dental care and education

• Tooth extractions and fillings

• Fluoride treatments and sealants

Family dentists aim to keep your oral health in excellent condition throughout each stage of life. However, when alignment and bite issues come into play, orthodontics becomes important.

What Is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is an expert branch of dentistry that focuses on correcting teeth alignment and jaw positioning. Orthodontic treatments help fix issues such as:

• Crooked or crowded teeth

• Overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite

• Gaps between teeth

• Jaw alignment concerns

These treatments are often done using:

• Traditional metal braces

• Ceramic braces

• Invisible aligners like clear trays

• Retainers after treatment

While orthodontists train specifically in alignment correction, many family dentists also offer orthodontic services depending on their additional training and experience.

Do Family Dentists Offer Braces?

Yes — Many Family Dentists Provide Certain Orthodontic Services

Some family dentists receive additional training to offer orthodontic solutions, such as:

• Clear aligner treatments

• Minor bite corrections

• Early orthodontic evaluations for children

These treatments are often best for mild to moderate alignment issues. For example, if your child has slightly crooked teeth or spacing problems, your family dentist may recommend and provide clear aligners.

When a Family Dentist Will Refer to an Orthodontist

If a case is more complex—such as severe bite problems or significant jaw alignment issues—your family dentist will refer you to a licensed orthodontist. This ensures that the patient receives treatment that matches their exact needs.

Think of it as a teamwork approach to dental care.

Why Starting with a Family Dentist Is a Smart Choice

1. Early Detection

Family dentists regularly examine your mouth and teeth, making it easier to spot alignment issues early—especially in children. Early detection often reduces treatment complexity later.

2. Convenience and Familiarity

Your family dentist already knows your dental history. Visiting someone familiar helps reduce anxiety, particularly for younger children.

3. Coordinated Treatment Plans

If orthodontic care is needed, your family dentist can work closely with the orthodontist to ensure seamless dental management.

Tips for Choosing the Right Family Dentist for Orthodontic Needs

• Ask whether they provide clear aligners or braces.

• Check if they work with orthodontists for complex cases.

• Make sure they offer early evaluation for children.

• Look for dentists who prioritize education and communication.

• Choose a dentist where your family feels comfortable and understood.

When searching for dentistry at Somerset, consider these points to find the best ongoing care.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my child start orthodontic evaluations at a young age?

Yes, children should have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Family dentists often monitor growth and recommend the right time for treatment.

2. Do family dentists provide clear aligners?

Many family dentists offer clear aligners for teens and adults with mild to moderate alignment issues.

3. Should I go directly to an orthodontist?

It’s usually best to start with your family dentist. They will evaluate the condition and refer you if more specialized care is needed.

Family dentists play an important role in identifying and supporting orthodontic needs. While not all family dentists provide traditional braces, many offer clear aligners or collaborate closely with orthodontic specialists. When choosing Somerset family dentistry, look for a practice that provides comprehensive guidance, early evaluations, and coordinated care.

Ready to take the next step for your family’s dental and orthodontic health?

Schedule a consultation with your family dentist and start building a confident, healthy smile for every member of your household.