Orthodontist vs Dentist - What Is the Difference?
Whether you’ve been referred to an orthodontist by your dentist, or just want to be certain you’re getting the best dental care for you, it’s important to know the differences between an orthodontist and a dentist. In this article, we’ll assess the key “need-to-know” information to help you decide what service you require, meaning you can receive the right treatment for your oral health needs before problems escalate further.
What Is an Orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws, often through braces or other orthodontic appliances. Orthodontists help patients improve the function and appearance of their teeth by straightening crooked teeth, closing gaps, or correcting bite issues. The key responsibilities of an orthodontist include:
- Braces: Orthodontists design and apply ceramic or metallic braces to straighten teeth over time, improving the overall alignment of the “smile”. Some orthodontists offer incognito lingual braces, which are hidden from view, unlike traditional braces.
- Aligners: Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are another method orthodontists use to treat misaligned teeth, without using traditional braces.
- Retainers: After the use of braces or aligners, orthodontists provide retainers to maintain the position of the teeth and prevent them from shifting.
- Jaw Corrections: Orthodontists treat misalignments of the jaw, including overbites, underbites, and crossbites, which can affect chewing and speaking.
- Space Maintainers: For children who lose baby teeth early, orthodontists use space maintainers to ensure that the adult teeth grow properly.
Orthodontists complete the same dental training as general dentists; a General Dental Degree. After a few years of general practice, they can then go on to undertake an additional three years of specialised education, earning a Specialist Orthodontic Degree. This makes them experts in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities.
What Is a Dentist?
A dentist is a healthcare professional who focuses on general oral care. They are who you would see for your regular dental check-ups, and are often your first point of contact when an issue arises. Dentists are trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent a variety of oral health issues, including cavities, gum disease, tooth decay, and other common conditions related to the teeth, gums, and mouth. Typical responsibilities for dentists include:
- Routine Cleanings and Exams: Dentists perform regular check-ups, cleanings, and x-rays to assess your overall dental health.
- Fillings and Crowns: Dentists treat cavities and tooth decay with fillings or crowns, helping to restore the functionality of your teeth.
- Root Canals and Extractions: If a tooth is severely damaged or infected, a dentist may perform a root canal or extract the tooth to prevent further issues.
- Preventive Care: Dentists offer advice on oral hygiene practices such as brushing, flossing, and diet to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
- Cosmetic Dentistry: Some dentists also offer cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening, veneers, or bonding to improve the appearance of your smile.
To become a fully-qualified dentist requires earning a General Dental Degree. This involves 5 years of dental school or university, followed by a further 2 years of supervised practice. After this, they are qualified to provide a broad range of dental services to patients of all ages and can choose to study further if they wish to become an orthodontist.
What Are the Benefits of Orthodontists, vs the Benefits of Dentists?
Orthodontists and dentists are both beneficial for our oral health, much like a doctor is beneficial for our general health. However, despite their similar focus, there are differences in some of the benefits that orthodontists and dentists can provide us with.
For orthodontists, some of these benefits include:
- Improved Teeth Alignment: Orthodontists straighten crooked or misaligned teeth, enhancing both appearance and function.
- Long-Term Oral Health: Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay.
- Personal Treatment Plans: Orthodontists develop tailored treatment plans using braces, aligners, or other devices for long-term results.
- Increased Confidence: Correcting alignment and bite issues improves not only dental health but also boosts confidence with a straighter, more attractive smile.
For dentists, the most common benefits include:
- Comprehensive Oral Care: Dentists provide regular check-ups, cleanings, and preventive care to maintain overall oral health.
- Early Detection of Issues: Dentists can detect cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues early to prevent more serious complications.
- Oral Hygiene Guidance: Dentists give advice on brushing, flossing, and maintaining good oral hygiene habits to prevent future problems.
- Restorative Treatments: Dentists repair damaged teeth with fillings, crowns, and root canals, restoring both function and appearance.
When to See an Orthodontist vs a Dentist
To avoid confusion, let’s take a look into who you should see when certain issues arise:
- Visit a dentist for routine care, fillings, crowns, cleanings, and general oral health advice, your family dentist should be your primary care provider.
- Visit an orthodontist if you or your child has crooked teeth, misaligned jaws, or bite issues - an orthodontist can evaluate and provide treatment options like braces or aligners.
In some cases, your dentist may refer you to an orthodontist for specialised care if they detect alignment issues that require advanced treatment. Both professionals often work together to ensure your mouth and teeth are as healthy as possible, with the dentist addressing general concerns and the orthodontist focusing on the alignment and function of your teeth.
Start Shaping the Smile You’ve Always Wanted
At Accessible Orthodontics, we have a well-rounded, experienced team who are dedicated to excellence, continually pursuing professional growth and development. If you’re looking to perfect your smile, we’re here to help - please contact us today to discuss the specific treatment you’d like to receive.
