When it comes to taking care of your smile, both orthodontists and general dentists play important roles. While they work together to maintain your overall oral health, their focus and expertise are different. If you’ve ever wondered what sets an orthodontist apart from a general dentist, this guide will help explain the distinction.

General Dentist: Your First Line of Defense

A general dentist is who you see for regular cleanings, exams, and everyday dental care. Dentists are trained to:

·       Perform routine cleanings and checkups

·       Treat cavities and fill teeth

·       Extract teeth when necessary

·       Place crowns, bridges, and other restorations

·       Diagnose and treat issues like gum disease

Dentists are the go-to professionals for maintaining the overall health of your teeth and gums. They focus on preventing and treating common dental issues and can provide a wide range of services. However, they are not trained to straighten teeth or to correct bite and alignment problems. That’s where an orthodontist comes in.

Orthodontist: The Specialist for Teeth Alignment

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on correcting teeth and jaw alignment. To become an orthodontist, a dentist must complete an additional 2-3 years of specialized training after dental school, focusing specifically on diagnosing, preventing, and treating misalignments in the teeth and jaw. Orthodontists like Dr. G are experts in:

·       Straightening teeth with braces or clear aligners

·       Correcting bite issues (overbite, underbite, crossbite, etc.)

·       Treating overcrowded or spaced teeth

·       Aligning the jaws to improve functionality and aesthetics

Orthodontists have the training and tools necessary to ensure your teeth and bite are properly aligned for both health and confidence.

When to See an Orthodontist

You should visit a general dentist for routine care, but there are certain signs that suggest you should see an orthodontist instead of your dentist, including:

·       Crooked or crowded teeth

·       Difficulty biting or chewing

·       Jaw pain or clicking

·       Teeth that don’t meet when your mouth is closed (open bite)

·       Difficulty with speech due to tooth alignment

Dr. G and the team at Love Orthodontics specialize in creating personalized treatment plans for patients of all ages, helping to guide your teeth into their ideal position for optimal health and a beautiful smile.

The Perfect Partnership

While general dentists and orthodontists have different areas of expertise, they work together to ensure the best outcomes for your oral health. Dentists monitor your dental health and refer you to an orthodontist if you need specialized treatment. On the other hand, orthodontists work closely with dentists to make sure your teeth are not only straight but also healthy during and after orthodontic treatment.

We Love to Help!

So, whether you’re scheduling your next dental checkup or considering braces or clear aligners, know that both your general dentist and Dr. G at Love Orthodontics are here to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile!

If you have any questions or think you might need orthodontic treatment, don’t hesitate to reach out to Love Orthodontics and schedule a consultation today. We’re here to help guide you every step of the way.