Finding an orthodontist to trust with your smile is a big decision, and it may seem like a daunting task if you’re not sure how to start! There are many providers to choose from and it can feel overwhelming to try and sort through all the websites, reviews, and recommendations. Your orthodontic journey will require an investment of your time, emotions, and finances, so you want to be sure to get this part right, but where to begin? Fortunately, Serrano Orthodontics is here to make this process as stress-free as possible! Let’s take a look at some of the important things you’ll want to consider as you search for the right orthodontist for your unique smile!
Back to basics: what is an orthodontist, exactly?
If you imagine dentistry as an umbrella, orthodontics is a specialty underneath it. Orthodontists are dentists who have had additional years of education and training in diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws.
After four years of dental school, an orthodontist must complete a minimum of two years of study in an orthodontic residency program that’s been accredited by the American Dental Association. Only those who’ve completed this extra training are able to hang their orthodontic shingle out!
In their residency training, orthodontists will continue to expand the skills they need to manage the movement of teeth and guide facial development. Their studies often include other important subjects, including oral disease, biomedical science, and how to create healthy smiles using orthodontic technology.
Meet our expert orthodontists
Our doctors are no strangers to the hard work and dedication it takes to become a successful orthodontist! Dr. Paul Serrano received a degree in Biology from Brown University before heading to UCLA for dental school. After a specialty residency at UCSF and a Master’s in Oral Biology under his belt, Dr. Serrano began what would eventually become a family business—Serrano Orthodontics! He’s been creating beautiful smiles in Maricopa County for over 30 years now and is known throughout the region for his experience and skills.
Dr. Andrew Serrano also attended Brown University, though his degree was in Biotechnology. Once he graduated, he returned to Arizona to complete his doctorate degree at Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health. Dr. Andrew earned his Master’s in Public Health and completed his postdoctoral residency in orthodontics here, as well, before joining his father at Serrano Orthodontics!
This father and son duo are both board-certified by the American Association of Orthodontists, something only 33% of all orthodontists accomplish. Dr. Paul Serrano has also been named as a Top Orthodontist over 20 times! When you choose our practice, you’re truly trusting your smile to the best in the business!
What treatment options are available?
Modern orthodontic technology and innovative techniques have led to an increased variety of treatment options available to patients. In fact, there’s never been a better time to explore how orthodontics can transform your smile! Serrano Orthodontics is proud to offer these exciting treatments to patients of all ages in our community.
Traditional braces with Victory Series low profile brackets
Traditional braces are one of the most popular and efficient treatments available for patients of all ages. Modern metal braces are much more comfortable and lighter than they used to be. They’re also customizable, with a variety of fun colored bands to choose from if you want to show off a little personality with your smile! These braces deliver excellent results and are especially useful in cases that are more severe or complicated.
Our practice uses Victory Series Low brackets because we love their smooth finish! Most brackets are designed with sharp contours that can irritate the lips and gums throughout the treatment process. Victory Series brackets are made of polished high-grade stainless steel, making them so gentle and unobtrusive that could almost forget you’re wearing braces!
Clarity Advanced clear braces
Clear braces are sometimes referred to as ceramic braces, tooth-colored braces, or esthetic braces. When it comes to straightening teeth, they function the same way traditional metal braces do but come with the added benefit of clear or tooth-colored brackets that blend in with your natural smile.
These braces aren’t completely invisible, but they are much less noticeable than metal braces, even though the brackets are about the same size and shape. When we pair clear brackets with clear, white, or tooth-colored wires and elastic ties, it results in an incredibly subtle way to straighten your smile! For patients who aren’t suited to removable appliances like Invisalign aligners, clear braces can be the next best thing.
Invisalign clear aligner therapy
The Invisalign system is made up of a series of customized aligners that are nearly invisible and completely removable. Unlike traditional braces, no brackets and wires are needed to move the teeth! This gives patients an extra measure of freedom and flexibility, like no food restrictions and the ability to remove the aligners for short periods of time.
Invisalign uses a special thermoplastic resin in their custom-designed aligners, which allows them to fit snugly but comfortably over your own teeth. They do rely on patient compliance to work correctly, however. Aligners must be worn 20-22 hours per day throughout the treatment process and switched out with the next in the series every 1-2 weeks in order to successfully move the teeth. When these guidelines are followed, Invisalign is often just as effective as braces in creating a healthy, aligned smile.
Find the best orthodontist for you at Serrano Orthodontics
Choosing an orthodontist is a personal decision, and we would love the chance to work with you. Thanks to our two experienced orthodontists, a talented team, and our use of cutting-edge technology, we’ve transformed thousands of smiles in the last 35 years—and yours could be next!
If you’re in the Maricopa County area and want to take the first step in your orthodontic journey, get in touch today to schedule your FREE consultation in our Phoenix or Chandler office.