What Sets a Dentist Apart from an Orthodontist?

Your smile is the very first thing that people notice about you. Both orthodontists and dentists specialize in oral healthcare. However, they have different qualifications and provide respective services. If you want to have a healthy smile, it is essential to know about these two specialists in detail.

Today, we will help you understand the difference between these two professionals working in the same dentistry field. Here is a breakdown that will guide you through the distinctions.

What Does A Dentist Generally Do?

Dentist generally specialize in oral health. They are trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems related to the gums, teeth, and overall dental hygiene. Like all doctors, dentist are trained in their practice before they get a degree or certification. Almost 80% of these professionals work in general dentistry. 

Some of the services that the dentist provides- 

1. Carry out dental X-rays
2. Fill and bond teeth
3. Extract teeth and fill cavities
4. Treat periodontal diseases
5. Perform oral surgeries
6. Place crowns and veneers
7. Repair cracked or chipped teeth
8. Promote oral health and oral hygiene
9. Oversee the development of kids’ teeth
10. Perform root canal surgeries

What Is The Role Of An Orthodontist?

Orthodontists are registered dental professionals who have specialized degrees in orthodontics. As per The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), these experts must undergo several examinations to become orthodontic experts. They are trained to diagnose and treat problems related to jaw alignment, bite problems, and crooked teeth. Some of the treatments that these professionals offer are –

1. Supervise facial growth in kids.
2. Diagnose and treat misaligned teeth and jaws.
3. Create a personalized treatment plan, including braces and aligners.
4. Carry out teeth straightening surgeries.
5. Install dental appliances

Orthodontist Vs. Dentist- How They Differ in Training and Qualifications

Dentists and orthodontists have similar education. However, the latter needs to have an additional degree before practicing. Both start their careers in dental school. After passing the National Dental Examination, dentist are certified to practice in hospitals or at their chambers. 

Professionals must attend the orthodontic residency program for at least two to three years to become certified in orthodontics. 

When Should You Visit a Dentist?

You should visit this professional at least 2-3 times a year for 

1. Routine dental cleaning and examinations
2. Cosmetic treatments to enhance your smile
3. Preventive care to avoid cavities and gum problems
4. Restorative work, like dentures and crowns

When Should You Visit an Orthodontist?

Consider visiting an orthodontist when you experience- 

1. Crooked or overcrowded teeth
2. Jaw pain and difficulty in chewing
3. Overbite, underbite, or cross-bite
4. Pain in the jaw or difficulty in chewing
5. The need for braces and aligners to get a straight smile

When Do You Need To Visit An Orthodontist Or Dentist?

Consider the dentist as a general practitioner and the orthodontist as the specialist. A dental expert treats the most common dental problems. However, you should visit an orthodontic surgeon in cases like jaw alignment, malocclusion, and tooth crowding. 

Understanding the difference between these professionals will help you decide whom to choose when you have dental problems. You can visit Cosmetic & Implant Dentist La Jolla for orthodontic and general dentistry issues. Book an appointment today for the vibrant grin you’ve always wanted.

**Disclaimer: This content should not be considered medical advice and does not imply a doctor-patient relationship.