The field of oral health is one of the critical areas of medical care, and picking a suitable professional can make a whole lot of difference. This is why there have been so many questions concerning the differences that exist between seeking the services of a dentist and those of an orthodontist. Both of them offer a variety of services around oral care; however, their practices, training, and specializations are strikingly different. In this detailed article, we will analyze and highlight the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist and articulate when each one is needed, including why Garrison Orthodontics, located in West Orange, NJ, is your provider of choice when it comes to orthodontics.

Understanding General Dentistry

What is a Dentist?

This is a healthcare practitioner who has undergone training in taking care of a patient’s primary oral cavity and facial structure. A dentist focuses his/her attention on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of any disease or condition that involves the teeth, gums, mouth, or even the jaw. Routine dental medicine is the domain of dentists, who form an integral part of every patient’s ‘dental healthcare team’ and are pivotal in the achievement and maintenance of a smile.

Education Background To become a dentist:

Qualifications Like any other profession, a practitioner in this field has to be a holder of a Bachelor’s degree. In addition to that, a dentist has to do postgraduate studies in his or her specialization, which in this case means the person has to obtain a doctorate in either dental surgery (DDS) or dental medicine (DMD) – all of which is completed after four years in dental school following an undergraduate degree.

Services Typically Offered by Dentists:

1. Performing dental examinations and hygienic cleansing
2. Treatment of a cavity
3. Management of periodontal diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis
4. Surgical removal of teeth
5. Use of prosthetic appliances like crowns, bridges, and veneers
6. Cosmetic surgery of the mouth, including bleaching of the teeth
7. Screening for cancer in the mouth
   
   

Understanding Orthodontics

What is an Orthodontist?

An Orthodontist is a dental surgeon whose area of specialization involves alignment in the teeth and jaws, which includes detecting them, preventing them, and correcting them. Orthodontists work toward enhancing the functionality and aesthetics of teeth, jaws, and bites through various treatments.

Educational Background by Orthodontists:

To be an orthodontist, one has to first graduate as a dentist from dental school and complete an additional 2-3 years of training in orthodontics.

Services Each Orthodontist Offers: 

• Braces made out of metal with fun colors for kids and teenagers. 
• Invisalign, which are clear, removable braces that are easy to wear. 
• Braces placed behind the teeth are called lingual braces for an unobtrusive orthodontic solution. 
• Braces that are made out of a tooth-like material are clear braces for a more discreet appearance. 
• Jaw repositioning treatment that doesn’t require surgery. 
• Orthognathic surgery for severe cases of misaligned jaws. 
• Space maintainers for children are used to keep the proper space for the new teeth that will appear later. 
• Accelerated methods of orthodontic treatment. 
• Consultations and fittings for braces are done on the same day. 

Key Differences Between a Dentist and an Orthodontist

This is a summary of the differences, presented in bulleted form: 

1. Education: Orthodontists, unlike dentists who have a DDS or DMD, trained as dentists before practicing orthodontics for an additional 2 to 3 years. 
2. Scope: The general dental practitioner. The orthodontist focuses on straightening teeth and aligning jaws. 
3. Treatment: Teeth cleaning, filling, crowning, and other preventive services for dentists, braces, aligners, and jaw correction for orthodontists. 
4. Instruments: Drill, polisher, and other tools for dentists. Wires, brackets, and aligner trays for orthodontists. 
5. Regular Visits: Estimate two times a year for dentist appointments. Less frequent visits while undergoing orthodontic treatment, depending on the treatment plan timeline.

When Should You See a Dentist vs. an Orthodontist?

When to Visit a Dentist:

1. You need a regular cleaning or exam.
2. You have any type of painful and sensitive toothache.
3. In the case of deep-rooted cavities, that may lead to gum issues.
4. For any beautification purposes such as tooth whitening.

When to Visit an Orthodontist:

1. In case of improperly aligned or overcrowded teeth.
2. Any chewing and speaking difficulties because of improper bite alignment.
3. Chasms forming between teeth.
4. Breech alignment in younger individuals.
5. Looking to get braces or clear aligners for better smile enhancement.
   
   

How Dentists and Orthodontists Work Together

Both doctors work together hand in hand to ensure patients receive comprehensive treatment. Your dentist may notice a busting issue when having a check-up, and they might refer you to an orthodontist for a more thorough assessment. On a more advanced level, orthodontists may depend on dental specialists after treatment to sustain the patient’s oral health, which is maintained through healthy teeth. In short, both braces and the general orthodontic get the patient’s plural work done circumferentially, assuring good dental health.

Conclusion

Maintaining your oral health requires the expertise of both a dentist and an orthodontist, as they serve different purposes. For smile enhancements like correcting bites or modern orthodontic treatments, you would visit an orthodontist. In this case, Dr. Garrison Copeland is the right choice. Garrison Orthodontics in West Orange, NJ, not only provides treatment, but we also offer comfort and care every step of the way.

FAQs

Can a general dentist do braces?

While a few general dentists may advertise limited orthodontic services, only certified orthodontists have the required specialized training to properly manage complex alignments of tooth and jaw.

Is Invisalign better than traditional braces?

Invisalign is best suited for those who desire a discreet, removable option, but traditional braces are often more effective for severe alignment issues. Whatever the case, at Garrison Orthodontics, we guide you to the best option for your lifestyle and smile goals.

When is the right time to take my child to an orthodontist?

According to the AAO (American Association of Orthodontists), children should visit an orthodontist when they are around 7 years of age. Doing so assists in identifying and addressing possible future complications while helping with the orderly development of the child both physically and in growth patterns.