There is lots of variation among dentists when it comes to referring braces patients out to an orthodontist.
While 1 in 4 treats most braces patients themselves, 1 in 3 general dentists refers out all dental braces patients.
“Minor tooth movement is within the purview of dentist and pediatric dentist,” said one oral surgeon. “Treatment planning for major malocclusions is better done by an orthodontist and an oral surgeon.”
The relatively high cost of braces can be attractive to doctors. “If we (GP’s) as a whole just knew how easy orthodontics are, the vast majority could increase monthly income by 15 to 25%,” said one dentist. “I love doing it, and now me and my stay-at-home wife are both driving Mercedes.”