
There is more to comparing a dentist vs orthodontist to extraction and braces. Although both deal with oral health, their functions and roles vary. Understanding how a dentist vs orthodontist contributes to oral health is essential for making the right decisions about dental treatments. In this blog our orthodontist in Charlotte will discuss what’s the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist.
Dentist vs Orthodontist
One of the key differences between a dentist vs orthodontist is their educational background. A dentist typically holds a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree and is trained in general dentistry, which includes diagnosis and treatment of common dental issues. When comparing a dentist vs an orthodontist, orthodontists have undergone the same dental degree but with additional specialized training.
After dental school, orthodontists must complete an accredited postgraduate orthodontic residency program to become specialists in the field. This rigorous program requires at least two years of focused work and study.
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of irregularities in the teeth and jaws. Orthodontists specialize in the use of braces, and other corrective devices to treat malocclusions (improperly aligned bites), which can cause difficulty in speaking, chewing, and other oral health issues.
The Role of a Dentist
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), the responsibilities of a dentist include:
- Disease prevention
- Promoting good oral health practices
- Diagnosing oral diseases
- Working within treatment plans to restore oral health in patients
- Use diagnostic tests and X-rays to assist with diagnosis and correction
- Administer anesthetics for patient comfort as needed
- Perform surgery within the mouth
- Monitor growth and development of teeth, bones, and soft tissue in the mouth
When comparing a dentist vs orthodontist, the primary concern of a dentist is teeth and gums. This includes diagnosing and working with patients to repair cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
The Role of an Orthodontist
The American Association of Orthodontists describes an orthodontist as a doctor who:
- Diagnoses, prevents, and treats dental irregularities
- Corrects crowded, crooked, or improperly spaced tooth alignment
- Repositions protruding teeth
- Corrects jaw alignment to improve tooth alignment
- Identifies potential future orthodontic problems and corrects them
Comparing a dentist vs orthodontist, you might say that an orthodontist is the fortune-teller of the dental world. By using X-rays and other diagnostic tools, they can predict growth patterns of erupting teeth and correct anomalies before they become a problem.
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Orthodontic Patients
Contrary to common belief, orthodontic patients are not limited to teenagers, although teens do make up the majority of patients. Adults can also benefit from orthodontic treatment and there are many options available to them, such as Invisalign and lingual braces. Orthodontic treatment is used to correct malocclusion or overbite, improve speech and chewing abilities, boost self-confidence, and facial esthetics, and prevent any future dental problems.
Similarly, children benefit greatly from getting orthodontic treatment and monitoring at an early age. The AAO recommends that children get their first orthodontic evaluation before their seventh birthday. This is when orthodontists can start to identify potential issues and prevent them from turning into major problems.
While monitoring the eruption of baby and adult teeth, as well as jaw growth in children, orthodontists also look for signs of oral health issues that can be corrected with braces. Phase 1 treatment, or interceptive orthodontics, helps make any future interventions (Phase 2 treatment) easier. Plus, not all kids need braces or other treatments. However, regular visits to an orthodontist give your child the best chance of avoiding major problems into adulthood.
Dentist vs Orthodontist — Which Do You Need?
Both a dentist vs orthodontists are important players in the world of oral health, and there is no competition. In fact, they often work together to provide the best possible care for their patients. While a dentist focuses on general dentistry, an orthodontist focuses more on the alignment of teeth and jaws.
When it comes to selecting between a dentist vs orthodontist, the first things you need to consider are your needs. If you are having a toothache, your dentist may be the better option. If you notice an uneven smile, are having difficulty eating or speaking, or if you have malocclusion, then an orthodontist is your best bet.
While most people know how important it is to go to the dentist regularly, many people overlook the importance of seeing an orthodontist. Crooked teeth affect people more than they know. Consulting an orthodontist for you or your family helps identify possible problems and prevent them from becoming an issue.
The key is to find an orthodontist you and your family are comfortable with. Ask around for recommendations or look online for reviews. Your dentist can also help you find an orthodontist that is right for you or your family.
Webb & Goldsmith Orthodontics for the Win!
At Webb & Goldsmith Orthodontics, we don’t just brag about being the best. We back that up with satisfied customers and a proven track record of success stories in orthodontics. Our rating as a Diamond Plus Invisalign provider means that Webb is rated within the top one percent Invisalign providers.
Our patients appreciate our services too. For the past five years, patients have selected Webb & Goldsmith Orthodontics as the Best Orthodontist in Charlotte as part of the South Charlotte Lifestyle Magazine community awareness program. We’ve also been voted one of the 2022 Charlotte’s Best by the Charlotte Observer readers garnering 70,000 votes,
Contact us at (704) 364-7343 today to make an appointment and get started on your journey to a healthier, straighter smile. You can also take advantage of our virtual consultation program and start your journey from the comfort of your home. Our office is located at 2915 Coltsgate Rd Suite 102, Charlotte, NC. We look forward to hearing from you!