What is the Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist?

TL;DR

• A dentist is a doctor who cares for your overall oral health. They perform treatments like tooth cleaning, cavity filling, fixing broken teeth, and correcting gum problems. 
• An orthodontist is a specialist dentist who straightens teeth and corrects bite problems.
• Both dentists and orthodontists work to improve your dental health, but they differ in their qualifications, the treatments they provide, and the specific dental issues they specialize in.
• When choosing a dentist, consider the following factors:
  • Qualifications 
  • Certification
  • Experience 
  • Services offered 
  • Clinic location
  • Reputation and reviews 
  • Cost and insurance 
• Ask for recommendations, check online reviews, and visit shortlisted dentists to find the best one near you.

Differences Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist You Should Know

When it comes to oral care, many people wonder about the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. A dentist and an orthodontist are both oral health care experts. They are in charge of taking care of a person’s hard and soft structures in their oral cavity.

Orthodontists and dentists have the same basic education – a couple of years of undergrad, followed by dental school. Once they’ve graduated from dental school, they can become licensed to practice as general dentists.

However, if one chooses to further specialize in the field of orthodontics, they become an orthodontist. This involves further years of training and skill development in diagnosing and treating issues with the alignment of your teeth and jaws.

In short, all orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists. Now, let’s take a closer look at the differences between an orthodontist vs. a dentist.

What Does a Dentist Do?

A dentist is a doctor who cares for teeth, gums, and the mouth. They check for problems, fix teeth, and help keep your smile healthy and strong.

General dentists offer the following services in their offices:

• Digital imaging, such as X-rays
• Treating gum disease
• Professional cleaning
• Teeth whitening
• Removing decayed material and filling cavities
• Tooth extractions
• Repairing chipped or cracked teeth
• Bonding teeth
• Promoting oral health and hygiene
• Installing dental crowns and/or veneers
• Performing oral surgeries
• Prescribing treatment and medication for various oral conditions
• Overseeing a child’s dental development

What Does an Orthodontist Do?

Orthodontists are dentists who specialize in the alignment of teeth and jaws. They undergo additional training to diagnose and treat malocclusion and other dental irregularities, focusing primarily on ensuring that teeth and jaws are properly aligned.

Here are some things an orthodontist does:

• Straightens teeth that are crowded or stick out
• Fixes bite problems like overbite, underbite, or crossbite
• Helps guide the growth of the jaw in children and teens 
• Uses tools like braces, clear aligners, and retainers to move the teeth slowly to the right place 
• Check how your face and jaw grow as you get older

Orthodontics is all about keeping your facial structure in balance.

Orthodontist vs. Dentist: Key Differences

Here are the key differences between a dentist and an orthodontist:

When to See a Dentist vs. an Orthodontist?

Dentists are the first stop for most dental issues. They are general mouth and teeth experts who can check for cavities, gum disease, tooth pain, or other common problems. They ensure your mouth stays healthy and prevent small problems from turning into bigger ones. Most people, including children, should visit a dentist every six months for checkups.

An orthodontist, on the other hand, is a specialist who focuses on the alignment of teeth and jaws. Crowded teeth, bite problems, and jaw misalignment require the precise care of an orthodontist. Often, a dentist will spot these issues during a regular checkup and recommend a referral.

It is recommended that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. At this age, an orthodontist can spot developing issues early and guide the growth of the jaw and teeth. Early detection often makes treatment simpler and more effective, sometimes preventing the need for more complex procedures later.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dentist

When you pick a dentist, it is important to think about a few key things. Choosing the right dentist and orthodontist helps you feel safe and keeps your mouth healthy. As per our experts at Rivers Bend Family Dental, below are important factors you should look at before making your choice:

Qualifications and Experience 

• The dentist should have proper training, valid certifications, and licensure.
• Dentists with more years of experience are often better equipped to handle a wide range of dental issues.
• Dentists who actively update their knowledge and skills can provide the most effective treatment.

Range of Services 

• Make sure the dentist offers the services you need, such as checkups, cleanings, fillings, and crowns.
• Look for a clinic that provides additional services, including braces, implants, or cosmetic dental care.
• Having multiple services in one place reduces extra visits and increases convenience.

Location 

• Choose a dentist close to your home, school, or workplace for easier access, especially in emergencies.
• Ensure the clinic is easily reachable by car, public transport, or walking.
• Check the dentist’s availability to accommodate your schedule.

Reputation and Reviews

• Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations based on their experiences.
• Read online reviews to understand how other patients rate their services.
• Look for friendly staff, a clean environment, and satisfied patients in the feedback.

Comfort

• A good dentist explains things clearly in simple words 
• You should feel comfortable asking questions and discussing concerns.
• The dental team should be welcoming and make you feel at ease during appointments.

Costs and Insurance

• Verify if the dentist accepts your insurance plan.
• Understand the treatment costs upfront before starting any procedure.
• Ask about payment plans or financial assistance if needed.

How to Find the Best Dentist Near You?

To find a reliable dentist in your area, follow these practical tips:

See Who People Endorse

People living in your area can give you information on the dental offices surrounding you. Patients with good experiences will endorse the dentists they visit. This will give you an idea about the dentist’s expertise and the overall office environment.

Ask a Healthcare Expert

Your family doctor and the local chemist can recommend all the good dental offices to their knowledge. People working in healthcare are aware of the ins and outs of their colleagues and know who to refer to where.

Surf the Web

A quick sweep on the internet and you’ll find all the local dentists nearby. Read up on the dentist’s qualifications, the services they offer, and patient testimonials.

The American Dental Association suggests that you visit the dental offices that you shortlist before making the final decision. This will help you gain some insight into the workings of the office, the setup, and the dentists’ and the staff’s demeanor.

Final Takeaway

The orthodontist vs. dentist choice matters because both serve important roles for your dental health. An orthodontist helps in straightening teeth and fixing bite problems. Dentists care for your overall oral health, performing treatments like cleaning teeth, filling cavities, and monitoring gum health. Understanding the difference between them helps you pick the right doctor when you need care. Sometimes, both work together to give you the best smile and dental health. 

At Rivers Bend Family Dental, a skilled team of dentists works to meet all your dental needs. Each dentist offers unique services to keep your smile bright and healthy. If you are looking for the best dentists in Ramsey, choose Rivers Bend Family Dental for trusted care. 

To book your appointment with our Ramsey family dentist, call 763-576-1855 or visit us at 14061 St. Francis Blvd. NW, Ramsey, MN 55303, United States.