What Is an Orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed two to three years of study after graduating from dental school. This training focuses on managing tooth movement (orthodontics) and guiding facial development (dentofacial orthopedics). There are three main steps needed to complete an education as an orthodontist: college, dental school and an orthodontic residency through an accredited program. This educational process can take 10 or more years to complete, and only those who successfully complete this formal education may call themselves “orthodontists.”

Orthodontists are uniquely qualified in diagnosing, preventing and treating orthodontic problems. Their professional lives are dedicated to creating healthy, beautiful smiles in patients of all ages. Not only are properly aligned teeth more attractive, but they are easier to keep clean and healthy through regular oral hygiene and ensure that it is possible to bite, chew and speak effectively. Orthodontic treatments are often part of a comprehensive oral health plan.

There is a broad range of treatments that an orthodontist may recommend, from traditional braces to clear aligner therapy. Because an orthodontist has completed advanced education and training, they are able to recommend the best types of treatments to meet each individual patient’s treatment goals.

As a Vanderbilt-trained orthodontist with a Georgia Tech degree in engineering, Dr. Morris has been able to draw upon a diverse background to create a practice offering a broad range of treatments and utilizing cutting-edge technology in the treatment of children and adults. He has been voted “Best Orthodontist in Sumner County” on over 10 separate occasions, and he has also been recognized as one of the top 5% of Invisalign® Providers in Tennessee and one of the top 10% in the nation. He is able to treat some of the most complex cases thanks to being one of a small number of master-trained Invisalign doctors and his extensive experience in the use of clear aligners. In many cases, he is able to tell a patient that he can help them achieve the smile of their dreams with Invisalign when they have previously been told that they were not a candidate for Invisalign treatment.

If you have any questions or if you want to schedule an appointment with our orthodontist in Hendersonville, Tennessee, please contact Morris Orthodontics today at 615-431-2787.