You have a toothache. Do you need a dentist or an orthodontist? What if you bite your cheek often when you chew? Which one can help your child stop thumbsucking?
It can be confusing figuring out when you need a dentist vs. an orthodontist. What’s the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist? What does each one do?
At Smith & Davis Orthodontics, we often get questions from patients about when they should see us or when they should see a dentist. We can help you understand the difference and which professional you need for different problems.
What Is a Dentist?
You may think a dentist and an orthodontist are the same thing, but they’re actually very different. Is an orthodontist a dentist? Yes, but not all dentists are orthodontists.
A dentist graduates from a dental school or program after studying teeth and human anatomy. They also work alongside others as part of their training, called a residency.
After dental school and residency, they are ready to become general dentists. They can set up their own dental practice or undergo additional training to become a dental specialist in specialized fields — such as orthodontics.
What Is an Orthodontist?
Some dentists want to continue their education to attain a dental specialty. To become an orthodontist, they must complete a special certification program that trains them in orthodontics, the science of the movement of teeth. They also must take part in an orthodontic residency program.
They can practice orthodontic services only after they’ve completed training and been certified. By then, they’ve learned the delicate science of moving teeth with precision so they can create amazing smiles. They can now treat patients with orthodontic care. They are ready to straighten teeth and fix misaligned teeth, as well as take care of other issues related to the teeth and jaws.
Your dentist treats your teeth, while your orthodontist treats your bite.
When Do I See a Dentist vs. an Orthodontist?
If both are dentists, when do you need to see an orthodontist? What does an orthodontist do that a dentist doesn’t do?
Dentists provide dental care for the overall health of your teeth. This includes semi-annual cleanings, filling cavities, treating gum disease, and performing root canals. Your dentist can also give you crowns, dental bridges, dental implants, and even dentures. They can coat your teeth with fluoride and other treatments to reduce or prevent tooth decay.
An orthodontist diagnoses and treats your bite by moving your teeth in a precise manner to restore your bite. It’s a very detail-oriented, delicate process for which your orthodontist is well-trained. An orthodontist can treat you with braces or clear aligners. They can also fit you with specialized appliances, such as a tongue crib or a palate expander.
How Do a Dentist and an Orthodontist Work Together?
Your dentist and orthodontist will work together throughout your braces treatment or Invisalign treatment. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment in Rogers, AR, you can schedule a free consult with Smith & Davis Orthodontics.
Before you see us, we recommend your teeth get a thorough cleaning first. That’s when you should see your dentist. After that cleaning, your teeth will be ready for our clear ceramic braces or Invisalign clear aligners.
We’ll give you a thorough examination on your first visit to create your treatment plan for your smile. We’ll also get your dental history from your dentist. That way, we’ll know whether you’re prone to tooth decay, lost teeth to injury or illness, or have been treated for gum disease and other dental issues.
During your treatment, you’ll continue visiting your dentist for cleanings twice a year. They will alert us to any issues, such as cavities or gum disease, and we will work together to take care of those issues and keep your treatment on track.
Braces and Invisalign in Rogers, AR
If you’re ready for braces or Invisalign, visit your local orthodontist. In Rogers, AR, Smith & Davis Orthodontics is ready to treat your bite issues. But remember to visit your dentist regularly to ensure your teeth stay clean and healthy throughout your treatment and beyond. You’ll also need to keep up good oral hygiene at home for great, long-term oral health.
Your dentist and orthodontist will work together to bring you the brightest, healthiest smile possible.
