Many dentists will be much more familiar with developing short-term outcomes and treatment plans, while orthodontists typically carry out long-term care plans for patients. Orthodontists are also better able to understand optimal orthodontic treatments, such as metal braces, Invisalign, ceramic braces, etc. To understand the fundamental difference between dental care and orthodontics, you should know that not all dentists are orthodontists, but that all orthodontists are dentists. General dentists are highly qualified professionals who care about the overall health, well-being, and beauty of your smile.
Orthodontists are dentists who have received additional education to specialize in diagnosing, preventing, and correcting teeth and jaws that are out of position. To become an orthodontist, a dentist must complete at least two additional years of courses specific to the field of orthodontics. Dentists deal with many general oral health problems, such as x-raying and examining teeth to assess their strength and health, cleaning teeth, and filling cavities caused by tooth decay. The path to becoming a dentist requires a great deal of education, starting with a bachelor's degree in any field and a few previous courses, and then gaining admission, attending, and completing a four-year program from a professional dental school.
Dentists focus on maintaining good oral hygiene for their patients and perform regular cleanings every six months. In some states, dentists may provide some orthodontic treatments, such as braces, in addition to their general dental services, the AAO notes. Orthodontists and dentists receive the same training initially, but orthodontists complete their training after graduating from dental school. An orthodontist is a licensed dentist who specializes in improving dental defects, such as overcrowded teeth, crooked teeth, and excessive or insufficient bites.
Most general dentists will refer patients to an orthodontist in circumstances that require specialized care. Next, you'll learn about the wide range of treatments and services offered by your dentist and how different treatments can help you achieve a beautiful smile, maintain your beautiful smile, or restore a smile that has lost some of its luster. Developing a healthy relationship with your dentist is essential for the long-term health of your smile, as your dentist will be the first to notice specific changes that could indicate problem spots or needs for correction. To help you decide between a dentist and an orthodontist and determine which one is right for you, we will first highlight the main aspects of each of them and then explain the difference between dentists and orthodontists.
Some general dentists are quite experienced in orthodontics, but the best way to ensure that you get the optimal care you deserve is to get treatment from someone who specializes in what you need. In most cases, your dentist will recommend that you seek orthodontic care if needed, or that you work in collaboration with an orthodontist who will provide the type of care you need if you need more specialized treatment. The more you know about the difference between orthodontists and dentists, the better prepared you'll be to choose the dental professional that best fits your needs.
