How to Navigate the World of Dental Specialists (Without Losing Your Mind or Your Smile)
If you’ve ever left a dental visit wondering “Wait… now I need to see WHO?” — you’re not alone.
General dentists. Orthodontists. Periodontists. Endodontists. It’s a mouthful (literally and figuratively). And if you’re trying to take care of your smile but don’t know where to start — let’s break it down.
At Kirby Nelson Orthodontics, our expert team helps patients from Maple Valley to Enumclaw understand the dental “dream team” — and where we fit in it — so you can move forward with confidence, not confusion.
🦷 Who’s Who in Dental Care?
Let’s simplify it:
- General Dentist = your go-to for cleanings, fillings, and overall dental checkups.
- Orthodontist = the alignment pros. We specialize in how your teeth and jaw fit and function.
- Periodontist = the gum gurus. They handle the tissues that support your teeth.
- Endodontist = root canal specialists. They treat the inside of your teeth.
So if your dentist brings up braces, Invisalign, or bite issues? That’s where our skilled orthodontic team comes in.
🤔 “Do I need a referral?”
Not necessarily. While your dentist may recommend seeing a specialist, you can come directly to us for an evaluation — especially if you’re noticing crowding, gaps, jaw pain, or your child’s smile just doesn’t seem quite right.
We’re not here to compete with your dentist — we’re here to collaborate. Think of it as your smile support squad, working together to give you the healthiest, happiest results.
📍 Maple Valley & Enumclaw: Let’s Talk Ortho First
If you’re local to Maple Valley, Enumclaw, or the surrounding areas, getting expert orthodontic insight is easier than ever. Our offices are powered by heart, humor, and high-tech tools — and our friendly team makes sure every consultation is comfortable, informative, and pressure-free.
Whether it’s you or your kiddo, we’ll walk you through what’s needed (and what’s not), what to expect, and how to make it fit your life.
Not Sure Where to Start? Start With Us.
Your dentist might not mention orthodontics. And that doesn’t mean everything’s fine — just that alignment may not be their focus. So if you’re wondering if something’s off (or just want peace of mind), it’s time to take the next step.
📅 Book a free consultation with the trusted team at Kirby Nelson Orthodontics.
Whether you meet with Dr. Kirby or one of our expert providers, you’ll get honest answers, personalized care, and a smile-first experience every time.
