What's so special about an orthodontist?

"Dentists, Orthodontists, they're all the same right?" We hear our patients asking this question as they wonder about the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. Before becoming an orthodontist Dr. Van Vliet started out in dental school and earned a DDS (dental degree) at Farleigh Dickinson University School of Dentistry, receiving his DMD in 1975. Your dentist also graduated from dentistry school.

After dental school however, Dr. Van Vliet decided he wanted to learn more about orthodontics, which is one of nine specialties within the dental field. So he stayed in school for a few more years at the State University of New York at Buffalo. In 1988, he was elected as a Diplomate on the American Board of Orthodontics. Soon thereafter, Dr. Van Vliet became an expert in orthodontics, which focuses on tooth and jaw alignment, as well as bite problems such as overbites and under bites.

Other dental specialties you may have heard of include endodontic (focusing on the soft tissue inside your teeth), periodontic (focusing on the gums and other tissues surrounding your teeth) and prosthodontic (focusing on restoring and replacing damaged teeth).

Dr. Van Vliet's commitment to orthodontic excellence is evidenced by his involvement with various professional organizations. Specifically, he is an active member of the following organizations: American Association of Orthodontics, Northeastern Society of Orthodontists, New York State Society of Orthodontists, American Board of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, NY State Dental Society, Ninth District Dental Society of New York and Omicron Kappa Upsilon. The American Academy of Periodontology and American Board of Orthodontists have granted Dr. Van Vliet awards for his achievements in the field.

Isn't it comforting to know you have a dental expert in Dr. Van Vliet to help you through any type of treatment your teeth, jaw and gums might need?