Differences between a Dentist and an Orthodontist

Orthodontist Seattle, WA

Many people do not know the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist. The confusion is understandable especially because both work on teeth. But it is beneficial to know how to tell the difference between them. When you have a problem with your teeth, jaws or gums, it is important that you schedule an appointment with the right professional.

Dentists vs. orthodontists

Dentists and orthodontists are both involved in the care of teeth and can help solve dental problems. Both of them are dental school graduates. Dentists can even offer some orthodontic services. However, there are differences between the professions.

Education

Dentists, who are also known as general or family dentists focus on overall oral health. All practicing dentists have earned either a DMD (doctor of dental medicine) or DDS (doctor of dental surgery) degree from an accredited program. Dentists are required to pass clinical and written exams. Most programs require applicants to have at least a bachelor’s degree.

Orthodontists complete the four years of general dental education in dental school. The professionals then have to complete an accredited program for a minimum of two years. These additional years make them qualified to move the teeth and align jaws. The title ‘orthodontist’ denotes the area of specialization.

Scope of practice

General dentists have to be licensed to practice dentistry. In some states, dentists can also provide specialty care. This happens even though they do not have post-dental school training in an orthodontic residency program. For instance, a dentist may provide the same services as endodontists who have training in root canals, but this does not mean that a dentist is an endodontist. Dentists may also provide aligners or braces to move teeth, but this does not also mean that dentists are orthodontists. In most cases, orthodontists focus only on their dental specialty.

Services

A dentist focuses on overall oral health. Dentists diagnose and treat problems with teeth, gums and other parts of the mouth. Through regular checkups, dentists can detect and treat cavities and diseases. Dentists also provide services such as veneers or crowns to improve the function and appearance of teeth. These treatment options are ideal for teeth that are broken or chipped or that have extensive decay.

Orthodontists are concerned with the examination, diagnosis and treatment of anomalies and malocclusions. Malocclusions may result from missing, crowded or extra teeth or jaws that are not aligned. An orthodontist can straighten the teeth. This can be achieved by moving them through the bone using braces, wires or bands. Orthodontists also help adults and children who want to improve their bite or appearance.

Takeaways

Both dentists and orthodontists work on teeth and help patients deal with problems that affect the teeth, gums and jaws. One major difference between them is education. Both graduate from dental school, but orthodontists must complete further training. The differences should help you determine who to see in case of any dental problems. If you are thinking about orthodontic treatment, you should consider your orthodontist.

Request an appointment here: https://www.loveortho.com or call Lovrovich Orthodontics at (206) 525-7000 for an appointment in our Seattle office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Orthodontist in Seattle, WA.

Recent Posts

What Is The Purpose Of Space Maintainers?

One method of plugging a gap between teeth is to use space maintainers. If your child is injured or loses their primary teeth before their permanent teeth have a chance to grow in, he or she risks developing dental problems if the resulting area between the teeth is not filled.In children, primary teeth grow before…

What You Need To Know About Orthodontic Retainers

An orthodontic retainer is often required when you complete a tooth-straightening treatment. Using your retainer goes a long way when it comes to keeping newly-aligned teeth in their proper position. It is an effective way to ensure the results of an orthodontic treatment last a lifetime.A retainer can be fitted by a general dentist or…

Reasons To Consider Clear Braces For Teens

We all want our children to have straight, healthy teeth; clear braces for teens (or invisible braces) for teens are an excellent solution compared to traditional braces. Thankfully, modern dentistry has made major improvements in braces technology that makes them more effective and more comfortable, and invisible. Now there’s no longer a need to worry…

What To Know Before Getting Ceramic Braces

You may have seen someone wearing ceramic braces without even knowing it. These are most well-known for their discreet appearance and are ideal alternatives for patients who are concerned about how noticeable their braces would look. Read on to learn more about why ceramic braces are trusted among orthodontic professionals.Ceramic braces are among the most…

Recent Posts

What Is The Purpose Of Space Maintainers?

What Is The Purpose Of Space Maintainers?

One method of plugging a gap between teeth is to use space maintainers. If your child is injured or loses their primary teeth before their permanent teeth have a chance to grow in, he or she risks developing dental problems if the resulting area between the teeth is not filled.In children, primary teeth grow before…

What You Need To Know About Orthodontic Retainers

What You Need To Know About Orthodontic Retainers

An orthodontic retainer is often required when you complete a tooth-straightening treatment. Using your retainer goes a long way when it comes to keeping newly-aligned teeth in their proper position. It is an effective way to ensure the results of an orthodontic treatment last a lifetime.A retainer can be fitted by a general dentist or…