Dentists and orthodontists are doctors who care for your oral health, but what makes them different?
That’s a great question.
While both doctors care for your teeth, their specialty and treatment philosophy differ. One focuses on general dental health, while the other deals with tooth and bite alignment.
If you’re curious about the difference between dentists and orthodontists, this blog post is just for you!
Read on to learn more about each type of doctor and what makes orthodontics a unique branch of dentistry.
The Difference Between Dentists and Orthodontists
Orthodontists and dentists differ in three significant areas. One is a specialized doctor, while the other is more general. Each offers unique services and they undergo different training.
Specialty
Dentists take a generalized approach to oral care. This means they focus more on standard dental issues like cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay and instruct you on preventing them.
Orthodontists understand the general approach to dentistry but also go deeper into treating the alignment of teeth and bites. Your orthodontist is there to help you correct your bite, fix any skeletal issues, and give you a straighter smile.
Training
Both dentists and orthodontists undergo rigorous training to study dentistry.
They must complete the first four years of college to earn a bachelor’s degree and then go on to dental school for around four more years to gain a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree.
However, orthodontists receive additional training to achieve their specialty.
After dental school, orthodontic students spend two to three years training in malocclusions or bite and tooth misalignments. This training gives them the proper knowledge to correct misaligned teeth and bites.
Services
Dentists help you keep up with the overall health of your mouth and perform procedures to maintain that health. Common dental treatments include:
- Teeth cleanings and oral health assessments
- Fillings, extractions, and minor oral surgeries
- Veneers, crowns, and dental implants
On the other hand, orthodontists provide services that correct your bite issues and fix misaligned teeth by moving your teeth and jaw into the correct position. These are examples of orthodontics treatment:
- Braces and clear aligners
- Palatal expanders
- Corrective orthodontic surgeries
Some dentists may offer overlapping services like retainers or clear aligners, but it doesn’t make them orthodontists. To officially become an orthodontist, dentists must complete the additional training.
When Do You Need an Orthodontist Over a Dentist?
Dentists can provide many services that give you a better quality of life by keeping your teeth and mouth healthy. However, they don’t specialize in any procedure that requires tooth movement.
It’s time to see an orthodontist instead of a dentist if you:
- Struggle with consistent pain where your upper jaws connect or TMJ
- Have teeth that overlap or significant gaps between your teeth
- Grind your teeth often or have issues chewing your food properly
You should also listen to your dentist and schedule an orthodontist consultation if they refer you.
Since your dentist takes X-rays of your mouth and closely monitors your dental health, they are typically one of the first to notice if something is out of alignment.
Can an Orthodontist Also Provide General Dentistry Services?
While orthodontists have the same general training as dentists, many only offer services in their specialty.
Orthodontics offices are designed with tooth alignment and straightening in mind, so orthodontists rarely have the tools to perform basic cleanings or tooth repairs like fillings.
Even though orthodontists rarely perform regular dental services, they may notice common dental issues during a consultation or checkup. Many also work closely with dentists in their area to help you get the best treatment possible.
What Makes the Orthodontists at Orthobar Special?
Our orthodontists go above and beyond for our patients at Orthobar, and that includes their training.
After two years of practice as a general dentist, Dr. Petersen, Orthobar’s owner and partner, attended a three-year advanced post-doctoral specialty in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics.
He also holds an ABO Board Certification, something less than half of orthodontists achieve in their career.
Dr. Grahl, Orthobar’s owner and partner, also spent four years as a cosmetic and general dentist before his orthodontic residency. He’s a fellow at the Academy of General Dentistry and the only Kois Recognized Specialist in Las Vegas.
Choose Orthobar as Your Trusted Las Vegas Orthodontist
When you choose Orthobar, you get more than an orthodontist — you become part of the Orthobar family.
Our team is here to greet you with a smile, listen to your concerns, and give you personalized care on every step of your orthodontic journey. We love helping people reveal their dream smiles and want everyone who enters our doors to feel comfortable during the process.
Do you think it might be time to see an orthodontist? Then contact us today to schedule your complimentary orthodontic consultation!
