1. General vs. Specialized Care
Dentist: A general dentist provides a wide range of services related to the health of your teeth, gums, and mouth. They are the first point of contact for routine checkups, cleanings, fillings, extractions, and treatment for gum disease.
Orthodontist: An orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities, such as crooked teeth, bite issues, and jaw alignment problems. Orthodontists undergo additional years of training after dental school to specialize in these areas.
2. Training and Education
Dentist: A general dentist completes dental school (usually four years) and earns a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. They are trained in all aspects of dentistry, including preventive, restorative, and cosmetic care.
Orthodontist: After dental school, an orthodontist completes an additional 2-3 years of specialized training in orthodontics. This includes learning how to use braces, aligners, and other appliances to straighten teeth and address misaligned bites.
3. Types of Treatments
Dentist: Dentists provide services like routine cleanings, cavity fillings, crowns, root canals, and treatments for gum disease. They can also offer cosmetic services like teeth whitening and veneers.
Orthodontist: Orthodontists focus on the alignment of teeth and jaws. They are experts in providing braces, clear aligners like Invisalign, and other devices to help improve the alignment of teeth and bites, correcting issues like overbites, underbites, and crowding.
4. When to See Each Professional
Dentist: You should see a dentist regularly for checkups, cleanings, and to address any general oral health concerns. Dentists are also the first professionals to spot potential orthodontic issues and can provide referrals to an orthodontist if needed.
Orthodontist: If you need teeth straightening or treatment for bite problems, seeing an orthodontist is the best choice. They can create a personalized treatment plan using braces or other orthodontic appliances to address specific alignment issues.
5. Collaboration Between Dentists and Orthodontists
Dentists and orthodontists work together to ensure that your treatment goes smoothly. For example, your dentist may help address any cavities or other dental concerns that could interfere with orthodontic treatment. This collaboration helps keep your smile healthy while aligning your teeth.