Posted on February 26, 2023
By now, you probably know there are different types of dentistry specialists out there, but you may be wondering what makes an orthodontist different from a dentist. Both types of professionals provide important oral care services to their patients. However, an orthodontist specializes in dental alignment irregularities in the teeth and jaw. Let’s see how an orthodontist differs from a dentist.
An orthodontist has undergone the same training as a dentist and completed an additional two to three years of specialized education in orthodontics. This intense training focuses on the growth and development of teeth, including how the jaw bones interact with the teeth. They learn how to use braces, clear aligners, and other forms of treatment to move teeth into a healthier position. All orthodontists are dentists.
Orthodontists are experts in diagnosing and treating irregularities of the bite. The “bite” is the way your upper and lower teeth meet and is an important part of oral health. They have the training to identify problems such as an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite. An orthodontist is the only type of dentist that can effectively diagnose, treat, and correct any alignment issues with your bite.
Orthodontic professionals are also specialized in treating certain conditions. They are well-versed in areas such as early treatment for children, orthodontic treatments for adults, and treatments for facial abnormalities. They also offer more specialized services, such as functional appliances like mouth guards. An orthodontist also specializes in using braces, clear aligners like Invisalign TM, and other treatments to correct misaligned teeth.
When it’s time for oral health checkups, it’s best to go to a general dentist. However, an orthodontist will look for any irregularities that could affect the way your teeth line up, and they can refer you to a dentist for further treatment if necessary. That said, an orthodontist can provide general oral health advice and recommend preventive care to maintain good oral hygiene.
When addressing orthodontic needs, an orthodontist is the person to go to. Due to their specialized training, they’re knowledgeable and experienced in diagnosing, preventing, and treating alignment problems of your teeth and jaw. Visit SmileyVille today for a complimentary consultation.
