Are Orthodontists Different from Dentists?

Do you ever wonder what the difference is between an orthodontist and a dentist? Are they both the same, or do they specialize in different areas of oral health? This blog post will discuss the differences between orthodontists and dentists and why it’s important to understand these differences when deciding on the right type of professional for your specific needs. Read on to learn more about orthodontists and dentists.

What Does an Orthodontist Do?

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating malocclusion—a misalignment of the teeth and jaws. Orthodontists use a variety of treatments to improve the look, feel, and function of your teeth and smile. They may use braces, clear aligners, or removable appliances to help correct an improper bite and straighten crooked teeth.

They are also experts in diagnosing and treating facial imbalances, including the overcrowding of the mouth and jaw or excessive spacing between the teeth. In some cases, orthodontists may suggest jaw surgery to correct misalignments that can’t be done with traditional orthodontic methods. In addition to their expertise in treating issues related to the alignment of the teeth and jaw, they also provide preventative care and education on proper oral hygiene techniques.

What Does a Dentist Do?

A dentist is a medical professional who specializes in the care and treatment of teeth, gums, and related areas of the mouth. Dentists help maintain oral health by providing preventive care, diagnosing and treating dental diseases, and performing minor surgical procedures such as tooth extractions. They also provide cosmetic dentistry services such as teeth whitening, veneers, and braces to improve the appearance of their patient’s smiles.

When visiting the dentist, your dental care provider will typically begin with a comprehensive mouth exam. This includes an assessment of your gums, teeth, and jaw. Your dentist may also take X-rays or images of your teeth and gums to check for any signs of decay or other abnormalities. The dentist may also clean your teeth during the exam to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Following the exam, the dentist will recommend any necessary treatments, such as fillings, crowns, or root canals.

How Are They Similar?

When it comes to orthodontists and dentists, the two professions share a lot of similarities. Both orthodontists and dentists are experts in oral health and take a holistic approach to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of dental issues. They both require post-secondary education in dentistry and must obtain a license from their state board to practice.

Both dentists and orthodontists work to assess patients’ dental health and devise a treatment plan accordingly. Additionally, they both have the capacity to take images and X-rays in order to diagnose potential oral health issues.

Who Do I Need To See?

The answer depends on your individual needs when deciding whether to visit an orthodontist or a dentist. You will need to see an orthodontist if you have any issues requiring specialized treatment, such as braces. They specialize in diagnosing, preventing, and treating malocclusions (improper bites). An orthodontist can perform corrective measures such as fitting braces, space maintainers, and other orthodontic appliances.

On the other hand, if you are looking for general dental care such as tooth cleaning, fillings, and gum treatments, you should visit a dentist. They provide preventive and basic restorative dental care and are trained to treat various dental issues. Dentists may also refer you to an orthodontist if you need specialized treatment. It is important to understand your needs to decide which one you should see.

Schedule Your Consultation With Smiles by Pocock

At Smiles by Pocock in North Vancouver, we understand the importance of having a healthy, beautiful smile. That’s why we strive to provide high quality orthodontic services in North Vancouver.

Our experienced and professional staff are dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible results. We use technologies and techniques to ensure you get the most out of your treatment.

Our personalized service can help you find the best solution for your unique situation. We also offer a wide range of payment plans, so you can easily afford the care you need. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you get the smile you deserve.