When it comes to maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile, regular visits to dental professionals are essential. However, many people are unsure about the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist and when they might need to see one over the other.
In this article, we’ll explore the distinct roles of dentists and orthodontists and help you understand which specialist to consult for your specific oral health needs.
Dentist vs. Orthodontist
Both of these professionals are experts in dental care with degrees in dentistry. That’s right, both dentists and orthodontists complete four years of dental school. However, like medical doctors, dental professionals can choose to specialize in certain treatment areas.
In the case of orthodontics, an additional 2-3 year residency is required.
The Role of a Dentist
Dentists serve as the primary care providers for your oral health, concentrating on the wellness and functionality of your teeth, gums, and overall mouth. You should see a dentist routinely for cleaning and x-rays in addition to corrective orthodontic treatments. Dentists also provide many cosmetic treatments.
- Preventive Care: Regular dental visits for check-ups, cleanings, and dental x-rays are crucial to prevent oral issues like tooth decay and gum disease. Dentists also educate on effective brushing and flossing techniques and might suggest particular products for oral care.
- Restorative Treatments: Dentists address oral issues like cavities or damaged teeth by providing treatments such as fillings, crowns, dental bridges, dentures, and dental implants to restore dental health and functionality.
- Cosmetic Procedures: To improve the way your smile looks, dentists may offer cosmetic enhancements like teeth whitening, dental veneers, and dental bonding.
- Screening for Oral Health Concerns: Dentists also perform screenings for oral cancer, assess potential TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders, and other health issues during regular dental examinations.
The Role of an Orthodontist
Orthodontists diagnose, prevent, and correct dental and facial misalignment and other anomalies.
- Correcting Misaligned Teeth: Orthodontists employ devices such as braces and clear aligners to correct the alignment of teeth, enhancing both the functionality of your bite and the appearance of your smile.
- Addressing Jaw Discrepancies: Orthodontists may utilize specialized devices or even surgical interventions to correct misalignments in the jaws, improving bite functionality, reducing jaw discomfort, and enhancing facial appearance.
- Early Intervention for Children: Orthodontists can spot potential alignment issues in young children, and early treatment can influence jaw development and tooth placement, possibly minimizing the need for more invasive procedures in the future.
- Customized Treatment Planning: Each patient’s orthodontic requirements are unique, and orthodontists create personalized treatment strategies based on factors such as age, jaw anatomy, and the extent of misalignment.
When to See a Dentist vs. an Orthodontist
In general, you should visit your dentist regularly for routine check-ups and cleanings, as well as for any acute dental concerns like toothaches or broken teeth. However, there are some situations where a referral to an orthodontist may be necessary:
- If you have crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth that affect your bite or appearance
- If you experience jaw pain, clicking, or difficulty opening or closing your mouth
- If your dentist notices signs of misalignment during a routine exam
In some cases, your dentist and orthodontist may work together to provide comprehensive care. For example, if you require orthodontic treatment but also have untreated cavities, your dentist may need to address the decay before you can begin wearing braces. However, you do not need a referral from your dentist to see an orthodontist.
If you have concerns about your tooth or jaw alignment, call us today to schedule a consultation with our experienced orthodontic team.
