orthodontics from a general dentist

silvercar

My dentist, who I am very happy with, is re-jigging his practice. He tells me that he has a special interest in orthodontics, though isn't a qualified orthodontist. I am considering having some straightening work done and unsure whether I wouldn't be better off going to a specialist. I feel like I would be a guinea pig for his ortho treatment, though he assures me he has done this work before. Would I be in safer hands going to a specialist orthodontic clinic that I have had recommended to me? If so, how do I do so without causing offence, as I want to keep with the practice for normal dental work.

Toothsmith

A Dentist 'with a special interest in' (in this case) orthodontics is a recognised 'thing' and is a stage in between a general dentist and one who has done all the qualifications to get to the dizzy heights of the specialist register.

Whilst not trained to the same levels as a specialist, DWSii dentists are usually pretty well informed and experienced in a good range of the skills that make up their 'special interest'. Far more so that the general dentists who have just done what might be as little as a weekend course in one particular 'quick' orthodontic system, and generally rely on that brand's Head Office doing the planning and providing the appliance.

Most importantly, they will be trained well enough to know what they can do, and what they can't!! Which often isn't the case for the 'one system' denists!

The dentist will not be offended if you do ask what his qualifications are or his experience is though - so don't be afraid to ask. It's all part of giving your 'informed consent'.

welshdent

I am a dentist with a special interest (not in ortho). I did almost all the same training as 2 others I know who are specialist I just didnt take the final set of exams after doing a portfolio. To be a specialist in the UK is very difficult and requires hospital training which many is simply not an option. I have all the same equipment. Same material, same case loads, maybe higher actually. I have provided clinical supervision to people going on to become specialists in the hospital and believe me. I have a lot more experience and skills than they did they day they were formally recognised as a specialist. 

If they have as they say, a special interest. I wouldnt be too concerned. We mostly recognise our limitations and can usually manage a situation not going according to plan. Most of us are at least diploma trained and more often than not Masters level. Just not officially a "specialist" Plus the GDC charge us more to be specialists !!! another plus - there arent actually that many specialties you can actually have. For example implants do not come with a speciality. Neither does "bonding".