What Is the Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist?

When it comes to taking care of your teeth, you might hear two terms: dentist and orthodontist. Both play crucial roles in dental health, but their jobs are quite different. Understanding these differences can help you decide which professional to see for your specific needs.

What Does a Dentist Do?

A dentist is a medical professional who focuses on the overall health of your teeth and gums. They are trained to handle a wide range of dental issues, including:

  • Routine Check-ups: Dentists check for cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
  • Cleanings: They perform professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth.
  • Fillings and Crowns: If you have a cavity or need a tooth repaired, dentists can place fillings or crowns.
  • Extractions: Dentists can remove teeth that are damaged or impacted.
  • Whitening: They offer teeth whitening treatments to help you achieve a brighter smile.

In short, a dentist is your go-to professional for general dental care and maintaining good oral health.

What Does an Orthodontist Do?

An orthodontist is a specialist who focuses on the alignment of your teeth and jaws. They receive additional training beyond dental school, specifically to treat issues related to tooth and jaw alignment. Here’s what orthodontists do:

  • Braces and Aligners: Orthodontists design and apply braces or clear aligners to straighten teeth and correct bite issues.
  • Jaw Issues: They can help with problems related to jaw alignment, such as overbites, underbites, or crossbites.
  • Growth Monitoring: For younger patients, orthodontists monitor the growth of teeth and jaws to predict future needs and guide treatment.

Orthodontists work to ensure that your teeth and jaws are correctly aligned, which can improve both function and appearance.

Key Differences

Here’s a quick comparison of the roles:

  • Training: Both dentists and orthodontists complete dental school. However, orthodontists undergo additional years of specialised training in orthodontics.
  • Scope of Practice: Dentists handle general dental care and treat a variety of oral health issues, while orthodontists focus specifically on correcting teeth and jaw alignment.
  • Treatment Focus: Dentists might perform cleanings, fillings, and other general treatments. Orthodontists design and implement long-term treatment plans for straightening teeth and correcting bite problems.

When to See Each Professional

  • See a Dentist: For regular check-ups, cleanings, fillings, or if you have any general dental issues.
  • See an Orthodontist: If you need braces, have alignment issues, or want to correct your bite.

Both dentists and orthodontists play essential roles in maintaining and improving your oral health. Understanding the difference between them can help you get the right care for your needs. If you’re looking for general dental care, your dentist is the right choice. For alignment issues or braces, an orthodontist St Clair will be your specialist.

By knowing what each professional does, you can better manage your dental health and ensure you get the appropriate treatment at the right time.

Your Healthy Smile Dentists

154 Bennett Rd.,

St Clair NSW 2759,

Australia

0296 706 991

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