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James Bloom

What is DIY Orthodontics?



DIY orthodontics, which involves attempting to straighten your own teeth at home without the supervision of a qualified orthodontist, is generally not recommended. While there are a variety of DIY orthodontic methods and products available, such as using rubber bands or clear aligners bought online, these methods can be extremely dangerous and can lead to serious and irreversible damage to your teeth and gums.


Orthodontic treatment requires careful and individualized planning, taking into account a patient's unique dental anatomy, bite, and facial structure. Attempting to straighten your own teeth without the proper training and expertise can lead to a variety of problems, such as:

  • Overcrowding or misalignment of teeth, leading to additional dental problems and a need for more extensive treatment.

  • Tooth and gum damage from improper pressure and movement.

  • Changes in your bite, which can cause jaw pain and other problems.

It's always best to seek professional advice from a qualified orthodontist who can provide you with a personalized treatment plan and monitor your progress throughout the process. Trying to straighten your own teeth can lead to permanent damage, and in some cases, may even require more extensive and expensive treatment to correct.


Why do people do DIY orthodontics?

People may choose to attempt DIY orthodontics for a variety of reasons, such as:

  1. Cost: Orthodontic treatment can be expensive, and some people may believe that DIY methods are a cheaper alternative. However, attempting to straighten your own teeth can lead to serious and expensive dental problems in the long run.

  2. Convenience: DIY orthodontic methods can be done at home, which may be more convenient for some people who don't want to visit a dental or orthodontic office. However, the convenience of these methods comes at a high risk, and the potential consequences should be taken into account.

  3. Embarrassment: Some people may feel self-conscious about their teeth and may be hesitant to seek professional treatment. However, it's important to remember that orthodontic treatment is common and nothing to be ashamed of.

  4. Misinformation: In some cases, people may not be fully informed about the risks and potential consequences of attempting to straighten their own teeth. They may believe that DIY methods are safe and effective when in reality they can cause serious damage.

In general, it's best to seek professional advice from a qualified orthodontist rather than attempting DIY orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment is a complex and individualized process that requires careful planning and monitoring to achieve safe and effective results.


How Much Training Does it Take to Become an Orthodontist?

Becoming an orthodontist requires a significant amount of education and training beyond dental school. To become an orthodontist in the United States, a person must first complete a four-year undergraduate degree program, followed by four years of dental school. After completing dental school, they must then complete a specialized orthodontic residency program, which typically takes an additional two to three years. Check out Dr. Bloom's profile to see his exemplary credentials.


During their orthodontic residency, orthodontic students receive extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of malocclusions and other dental and facial irregularities. They also receive training in the use of orthodontic appliances, such as braces, retainers, and aligners.

After completing their residency program, orthodontists may also choose to pursue additional certification from the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO), which involves passing a rigorous exam and demonstrating a high level of expertise in the field of orthodontics. Overall, becoming an orthodontist typically requires at least 10 years of education and training beyond high school.


Should I Get Orthodontic Treatment from my Dentist or Orthodontist?

It's generally recommended to get orthodontic treatment from an orthodontist rather than a general dentist. Orthodontists are specialists in the field of orthodontics, which involves correcting irregularities in the teeth and jaws, and they undergo additional training beyond dental school to specialize in this area. They are experts in diagnosing and treating malocclusions (bite problems) and other dental and facial irregularities.


General dentists may also offer orthodontic treatment, but their training in this area is typically more limited, and they may not have the same level of expertise as an orthodontist. In some cases, a general dentist may refer you to an orthodontist for more specialized treatment.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to see a dentist or an orthodontist for your orthodontic treatment depends on your specific needs and the complexity of your case. If you have a simple misalignment issue that can be corrected with basic orthodontic treatment, your general dentist may be able to help. However, for more complex cases or specialized treatments, it's generally best to see an orthodontist.


The simple truth is that crafting a beautiful smile through orthodontic treatment is a challenging endeavor that takes years of training and experience to master. We guarantee that after your complimentary consultation, you will leave with a greater understanding of what orthodontic options are available that what steps will be needed to get the smile you've always wanted. We closely monitor each of our patients during their treatment to avoid any pitfalls or unwanted consequences. Your teeth are too valuable and important to put in the hands of a mail-order service that won't guarantee their results. Trust the best orthodontist near you in Lone Tree, Parker, Highlands Ranch, Centennial and Englewood to give you the highest quality treatment and superior customer service. Contact Dr. Bloom at Bloom Orthodontics today!

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