Orthodontist vs. Dentist: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to oral health, there are many professionals who play a role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Two of the most common specialists you’ll encounter are dentists and orthodontists. While their work overlaps in some ways, their expertise and focus areas are quite different.
If you’ve ever wondered, “Do I need a dentist or an orthodontist for this?”—you’re not alone. This blog will break down the differences between these two professions, when to see each one, and why both are essential for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
“Think of a dentist as your oral health coach and an orthodontist as your smile architect,” explains Dr. Chad Wright. “Both have important roles, but their training and focus are unique.”
What Does a Dentist Do?
A dentist is your first line of defense when it comes to oral health. Dentists focus on preventing, diagnosing, and treating issues that affect your teeth, gums, and overall oral hygiene. Regular visits to the dentist are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and catching problems early.
Key Services Provided by Dentists:
Cleanings and Exams: Dentists and hygienists clean your teeth, check for cavities, and monitor your overall oral health.
Fillings and Restorations: Dentists treat cavities and repair damaged teeth with fillings, crowns, or bridges.
Root Canals: Dentists can save infected teeth by cleaning out the infection and sealing the tooth.
Gum Disease Treatment: Dentists help treat gingivitis and periodontitis to keep your gums healthy.
“A dentist is your partner in maintaining oral health. Their work helps ensure you have a strong foundation for a healthy smile,” says Dr. John R. Feusier.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
While dentists focus on overall oral health, orthodontists specialize in correcting alignment issues with the teeth and jaw. Their goal is to create a functional bite and a beautiful smile by straightening teeth and addressing structural concerns.
Key Services Provided by Orthodontists:
Braces and Clear Aligners: Orthodontists use tools like braces or Invisalign® to align teeth and fix gaps or crowding.
Bite Correction: Orthodontists treat overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites to improve function and aesthetics.
Jaw Alignment: Orthodontists address issues like jaw asymmetry or improper growth to ensure balance and harmony.
Phase I Treatment for Kids: Orthodontists guide jaw growth and create space for permanent teeth during early intervention.
“Orthodontics isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about improving function and setting the stage for long-term oral health,” explains Dr. Wright.
Training Differences Between Dentists and Orthodontists
Both dentists and orthodontists begin their journeys in dental school, where they earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree. After completing dental school, dentists can begin practicing general dentistry.
Orthodontists, however, undergo an additional 2-3 years of specialized training in orthodontics. This extra education focuses on:
Tooth and jaw alignment.
Orthodontic appliances like braces and aligners.
Advanced techniques for correcting bite and facial symmetry.
“An orthodontist’s extra training allows them to focus exclusively on alignment and bite issues, providing a higher level of expertise in those areas,” says Dr. Feusier.
When to See a Dentist vs. an Orthodontist
Knowing when to see each specialist is key to keeping your oral health on track.
You Should Visit a Dentist For:
Regular checkups and cleanings (every six months).
Treating tooth pain or cavities.
Preventive care like fluoride treatments and sealants.
Gum disease treatment.
You Should Visit an Orthodontist For:
Crooked or crowded teeth.
Bite issues like an overbite, underbite, or crossbite.
Jaw alignment concerns or pain.
A consultation for braces, aligners, or other orthodontic appliances.
If you’re ever unsure, start with your dentist. They can help you decide whether it’s time to see an orthodontist.
Collaborative Care: How Dentists and Orthodontists Work Together
Dentists and orthodontists often collaborate to provide comprehensive care. For example:
A dentist may refer you to an orthodontist if they notice alignment issues during a routine exam.
An orthodontist may work with your dentist to monitor oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment, such as braces.
This teamwork ensures your teeth are healthy and properly aligned.
“Dentists and orthodontists are like two sides of the same coin. Together, they help patients achieve both health and harmony,” says Dr. Wright.
Why Both Are Essential for a Healthy Smile
While their roles differ, both dentists and orthodontists are essential for maintaining a healthy, functional smile.
Dentists focus on preventing and treating oral health issues.
Orthodontists specialize in aligning teeth and jaws for better aesthetics and function.
Skipping one or the other could lead to long-term problems, such as tooth decay from poor oral hygiene or jaw pain from misalignment.
“A healthy smile isn’t just about appearance—it’s about function, confidence, and quality of life,” says Dr. Feusier
Common Myths About Dentists and Orthodontists
Myth 1: You Only Need to See an Orthodontist if You Want Braces
Fact: Orthodontists treat a variety of issues, including bite problems and jaw alignment, even if braces aren’t needed.
Myth 2: You Can Skip the Dentist if You’re Seeing an Orthodontist
Fact: Regular dental checkups are essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy during orthodontic treatment.
Myth 3: Orthodontists Only Work with Kids
Fact: Orthodontists treat patients of all ages, including adults who want to improve their smile or fix bite issues.
Take the First Step Toward Your Healthiest Smile
Whether you’re due for a dental cleaning or considering orthodontic treatment, it’s important to work with the right specialist. At Wright & Feusier Orthodontics, we specialize in creating beautiful, healthy smiles through expert orthodontic care.
💡 Schedule a consultation today and discover how we can help you achieve the smile of your dreams!
