[labdude]

I did go to a Dental lab school for 2 years while I worked in a lab. Your right on, it did help to have an understanding of all aspects of dental lab work. Thing is L.A. has such a huge base of orthodontists, I didn't have to even think about doing relines or crowns etc.
I have no problem with you doing that stuff Cade. What ever dircetion you take, and it seems to be ortho, FOCUS. Do the other stuff if you need a little extra. It's just les hassle to do just ortho, than it is to change from on type of lab work to another. Also the speed at which you do ortho, as well as the quality, will improve faster. You'll be comfortable sooner doing something like, say, a Bionator.
You kepp doning what you need to do to take care of Sara and your son first.
That stuff you just said about GPs, been there done that as well. Their experience and quality is generally lacking in ortho.