Your teeth hurt, and you are browsing through Google to find out where to go for a solution. During your search for a dentist, you notice that some places recommend visiting an orthodontist. How do you decide if you need to visit an orthodontist or dentist?
Let’s imagine a different scenario. If you had a stomach pain, you would visit your family doctor. After discussing the symptoms with you, if the doctor feels like there is an underlying issue, they will refer you to a specialist, such as a gastroenterologist. Similarly, if you face dental problems that require a specialist, a dentist may refer you to one.
For starters, orthodontists and dentists have many similarities. They both work on teeth, provide professional service, and are qualified to help you. So, why are there two names describing similar roles? There is a difference between a dentist and orthodontist, despite both fields having similar traits.
What is a Dentist?
Dentists are known for dealing with a broad range of oral health issues, including cavities, gum disease, broken and missing teeth. About 80 percent of dentists practise general dentistry. They are your go-to professionals for helping you achieve a confident smile.
Some dentists can provide orthodontist treatments as well. This often raises the question, “are orthodontists dentists?”
What is an Orthodontist?
Orthodontists are specialists in facial growth and dental development. They focus on tooth and jaw alignment and are more qualified for services that require teeth straightening. Although both professionals offer some similar services, orthodontic methods are different from general dentistry work.
How Are They Similar?
There is no shame in being torn between choosing a dentist vs orthodontist. Due to their similarities, it can be challenging to understand the difference between dentist and orthodontist. They are correlated since an orthodontist can work in a dental office and treat patients the same way as a dentist. Both professionals are considered doctors who deal with teeth and gums.
What Are Their Qualifications?
It may be tricky to choose between a dentist or orthodontist for your next oral treatment. However, the decision should be based on your individual needs as their qualifications are slightly different.
Both professions play a valuable role in keeping your teeth healthy. Dentists complete a General Dental Degree that enables them to offer a range of services from cleanings, cavities to repairing teeth.
On the other hand, orthodontists complete a Dental Degree, followed by a three-year Specialist Degree. Orthodontists specialized in tooth and jaw alignment.
What Services Do Dentists Provide?
Dentists are qualified for various services including, but not limited to:
- Dental X-rays – Taking images of your teeth that will determine what services you need.
- Fill cavities – Filling any opening in your tooth with some material.
- Extract teeth – Taking out problematic teeth such as wisdom teeth.
- Repair broken teeth – Performing dental bonding or applying porcelain covers.
- Treat gum diseases – Dealing with gingivitis and periodontitis.
- Install crowns – Covering damaged teeth to make them look natural.
- Perform oral surgery – Procedures such as root canal or dental implant.
What Services Do Orthodontists Provide?
The main focus of orthodontists is correcting the alignment of your jaw, which includes services such as:
- Oversee facial growth – Mostly in jawline and bite, primarily in children.
- Treat misaligned teeth and jaw – Reduce crossbite, overbite, etc.
- Diagnose overcrowded mouths – Create space in the mouth.
- Teeth straightening surgery – Corrective jaw surgery to correct misaligned jaw.
- Provide braces, retainer, and aligners – For long-term improvement.
Are Orthodontists Dentists?
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry. In simple terms, an orthodontist is a type of dentist. However, orthodontists are specialized in certain treatments and have more in-depth qualifications for particular issues, as mentioned above. Some general dentists complete additional coursework within approximately three years to earn the orthodontist tag.
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How to Pick the Right Professional?
If you are unsure about who to visit – orthodontist vs dentist, you can consult a dental office for help. Luckily, some places like Hamilton dental care have both dentist and orthodontists services. This makes the decision easier and enables you to switch between the two professionals easily when needed.
If you are not sure about what is bothering you, visit a general dentist. They will be able to figure out the root cause of the problem and guide you towards the next step. If they are qualified to assist you, they will do so. If not, the dentist may refer to you an orthodontist in Hamilton, Ontario who will help you out.
The Importance of Oral Care
Whether you seek help from an orthodontist or dentist, proper oral care is vital for both treatments. Making sure that your teeth are in good condition requires more than just visiting a professional.
Follow these basic procedures, whether in between appointments or even after the treatments are complete.
- Brush your teeth twice a day, regularly. Take two minutes during each session and thoroughly clean the inside of your mouth. Make sure to practice a good technique.
- Change your brush frequently. Your brush may wear out or not work efficiently if you don’t replace it often.
- Floss daily. It is important to floss to reach the bacteria in the tight spaces between your teeth and under the gum line.
- Use a mouthwash. Using a gentle mouthwash can get rid of the bacteria that your toothbrush or floss cannot reach.
- Know when to visit a dentist. Don’t neglect any teeth issues. If your teeth are hurting, moving, feeling sensitive, or if you have swollen gums, consult a professional.
In Simple Terms
Dentists can help you with short-term issues such as checkups, cleanings, teeth whitening, and root canals.
Orthodontists can help you with long-term issues such as aligning teeth, improving bite issues, and facial misalignments.
Are you still having a tough time concluding whether to see a dentist or orthodontist? Although both professionals can do wonders for your teeth, it is best to contact a dental care office for assistance. At Dentistry on 7th, we promise to direct you towards the right path and guide you throughout the process.