Differences between an orthodontist and dentist

What is the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?

Both dentists and orthodontists are clinically trained doctors, and they both specialize in oral healthcare. Doctors who study general dentistry are trained to diagnose and treat your gums, teeth, tongue, and mouth.

Orthodontists receive this training, but they also complete additional education to specialize in diagnosing and treating misaligned teeth and jaws.

Let's take a look at how orthodontists and dentists differ so you know which type of doctor you need.

What can an orthodontist do that a dentist can't?

Dentists provide care focused on diagnosing and treating problems related to the health of your teeth and gums. Orthodontists have a wider scope, looking at facial disharmony and bite utility. The usual process to become qualified includes:

• College for a pre-dentistry or pre-medical degree

• Going on to a graduate school of dentistry

Dentists are doctors of oral health and like all doctors, dentists are required to be highly trained in their practice before becoming certified.

Certified dentists can treat and provide care for tooth decay, root canals, gum disease, crowns, and veneers. They might also offer something such as pediatric dentistry.

What does an orthodontist do?

Orthodontists provide care focused on the overall facial growth, bite function, facial and dental imbalances, and smile aesthetics.

• Orthodontists first become dentists before specializing in orthodontics

• After four years of dental school, dentists must apply to be accepted into a competitive residency in orthodontics.

• This specialty training process is similar to a doctor, completing medical school, and applying for residency to become an orthopedic surgeon, dermatologist, or plastic surgeon.

• Orthodontists specialize in helping patients with the alignment of their teeth, improving their bite, or fitting them for growth modification appliances, braces, or clear aligners.

Should I see a dentist or orthodontist?

You can think of your dentist as your general practitioner and your orthodontist as a specialist. Most standard dental issues can be resolved at your dentist’s office.

There may be cases where your dentist will refer you to an orthodontist, like Impress, to treat jaw malocclusion, tooth crowding, and palate expansion. We also recommend children, as young as seven, come see us for a free consultation to see if they will be a candidate for clear aligners or braces.

Orthodontists and dentists are two types of doctors who go through extensive training and practice diagnosing and treating oral health conditions. When it comes to looking for experts in moving teeth—look no further than an orthodontist. Interested in achieving a healthy, confident smile? Come see us today to learn more about how our orthodontists treat even the most complex smile cases with our tech-enabled clear aligners.

Start your custom clear aligner journey today! Book your free consultation by calling 888.490.1421 or scheduling online here.