Dentists and orthodontists are both professionals who focus on oral healthcare. These guys are important considering that one-third of Americans say they are unhappy with their smile.

While you can count on these experts to take care of your smile, they are very different in what they do. Read on to find out the difference between orthodontists versus dentists.

What Is a Dentist

Dentists are the frontline when it comes to good oral health. They work to prevent, diagnose, and treat oral diseases, Dental Implants, correct dental issues and treat injuries related to the teeth and jaw.

Dental Services

You’ve most likely seen a dentist in your lifetime. It’s recommended that you see one at least twice a year to keep up with cleanings. Most dentists practice what is referred to as general dentistry.

Dentists will usually offer services such as:

• Dental x-rays
• Repairing cracked teeth
• Teeth whitening
• Installing crowns
• Filling cavities
• Treatment of gum disease
• Filling and bonding teeth
• Tooth extraction
• Perscriptions
• Pediatric dentistry

Not all dentists will offer the same services. So, are you wondering do I need a dentist? The answer is yes! Everyone needs to have a dentist that they visit regularly to ensure that their oral health is in order.

Education for Dentists

Dentists are doctors and therefore they must complete extensive schooling. They go to pre-dentistry or pre-medicine school before they graduate from dentistry school.

They are also required to complete a residency before they become certified. This means that they’ll need to pass a rigorous exam.

What Is an Orthodontist

Similarly, an orthodontist is also a specialist in oral health. However, they are much more focused on a particular aspect. They treat, prevent, and diagnose issues regarding tooth and jaw alignment. 

Orthodontic Services

There are several services that an orthodontist may offer. These include the following:

• Create treatment plans with braces or aligners
• Supervise the facial (jaw) growth in children
• Diagnose misaligned jaws and teeth
• Teeth straightening surgery
• Install dental appliances such as braces, headgear, or palatable expanders

Now, you might ask yourself do I need an orthodontist? Your dentist can help you answer that easier! They may have a referral for the best orthodontist if they believe you have something worth getting checked out.

Education for Orthodontists

Technically, an orthodontist is a dentist but with a specialization. They must go through the same training as a regular dentist. In addition to that, they must complete an extra two to three years of schooling in orthodontics.

Who Should You See?

Now that you are aware of the differences between orthodontists and dentists, you’re probably able to answer that question a bit easier. Again, you should always have a dentist that you visit regularly for at least prevention of any issues.

If you think that you have issues with misaligned teeth or bite, then an orthodontist would be the best expert for you. You may want to visit your dentist and get their opinion first. Sometimes you will need a referral to see one in the first place.

Orthodontist Versus Dentist

When it comes to orthodontists versus dentists, there are very clear differences. Both are very helpful in keeping your oral health up to par. Not everyone needs the services offered by an orthodontist but so many of us do!

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