Meet Your Carlsbad Orthodontist
Dr. Jacob Shelley hails from Southwest New Mexico where he spent his formative years working on his grandfather's cattle ranch near the Mogollon Mountains. He earned a Bachelor of Science in biology from Brigham Young University before moving on to pursue dentistry at the Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health, where he obtained his DMD degree and a certificate in public health.
Dr. Shelley's passion for creating beautiful, confident smiles led him to complete an orthodontic specialist residency at Saint Louis University, where he conducted research on Invisalign clear aligners and earned a master's degree. He is a member of several prestigious organizations, including the American Association of Orthodontists and the American Dental Association.
In his free time, Dr. Shelley enjoys hiking, biking, birdwatching, and playing sports such as soccer, tennis, and pickleball. He is a dedicated member of his community, having served in multiple youth mentorship programs and as a leading partner for the American Red Cross.
Orthodontists vs. Dentists: What's the Difference?
At first glance, orthodontists and dentists may seem interchangeable. After all, both professions focus on oral health and helping patients achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. However, there are significant differences between the two fields that are worth understanding.
Orthodontists, for instance, receive specialized training and education beyond what is required for general dentistry. After completing dental school and becoming licensed as a dentist, orthodontists continue their education for several additional years, learning the ins and outs of orthodontic treatment, including how to move teeth and align jaws. This means that orthodontists have a deeper understanding of the complexity of orthodontic cases and are able to provide more specialized care to their patients.
Why Seeing an Orthodontist Matters
If you're considering orthodontic treatment, seeing an orthodontist is your best bet for achieving a healthy, beautiful smile. Orthodontists have the knowledge, training, and experience necessary to diagnose and treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, from simple alignment problems to complex bite issues.
By seeing an orthodontist, you'll benefit from:
- Comprehensive treatment options: Orthodontists offer a wider range of treatment options than general dentists, which means you're more likely to find a treatment that works for your unique needs.
- More efficient treatment: Because orthodontics is their primary focus, orthodontists are able to provide more efficient treatment and shorter appointment times.
- Better outcomes: Orthodontists have the experience and expertise necessary to create personalized treatment plans that address your specific concerns and deliver the best possible outcome.
- Faster treatment: Orthodontists typically have more availability than general dentists, so you'll be able to get seen more quickly and complete your treatment in a timely manner.
Ultimately, seeing an orthodontist is an investment in your oral health and your confidence. At Farnsworth Family Orthodontics, we're proud to offer affordable, personalized orthodontic care to patients of all ages in Carlsbad and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward a healthy, beautiful smile.