What’s the Difference Between a General Dentist and an Orthodontist?

When it comes to oral health, you may have wondered about the difference between a general dentist and an orthodontist. While both professionals play an important role in maintaining your smile, they have distinct areas of expertise. Understanding these differences can help you make the best decision when seeking dental or orthodontic care.

Education & Training

Both general dentists and orthodontists start their journey in dental school, but their paths diverge when it comes to specialized training:

• General Dentist – Completes four years of dental school and earns a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree.
• Orthodontist – After dental school, an orthodontist undergoes an additional 2-3 years of specialized training focused exclusively on diagnosing and correcting misaligned teeth and jaw issues.

Scope of Practice

A general dentist focuses on overall oral health, while an orthodontist specializes in alignment and bite correction. Here’s a breakdown of what each professional typically does:

General Dentist

• Preventative care (cleanings, exams, X-rays)
• Fillings, crowns, and bridges
• Root canals and extractions
• Cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening and veneers
• Limited scope orthodontic treatments such as limited braces or clear aligners

Orthodontist

• Diagnosing and treating misaligned teeth and jaws
• Providing traditional and hidden braces, clear aligners (like Invisalign), and other corrective treatments
• Managing complex bite issues (overbites, underbites, crossbites, openbites)
• Monitoring growth and development in children to guide proper tooth alignment

When to See an Orthodontist vs. a General Dentist

While general dentists can address many oral health concerns and play an integral role in your overall health and wellness, orthodontists have the advanced expertise to correct misalignment and bite issues effectively. Here’s when you should see each:

• Visit a general dentist for preventative check-ups, cavities, gum disease treatment, or cosmetic procedures.
• Consult an orthodontist if you have crooked teeth, gaps between your teeth, bite problems, or are considering braces or Invisalign.

Working Together for Your Best Smile

General dentists and orthodontists often collaborate to ensure patients receive comprehensive oral care. A general dentist may refer you to an orthodontist if they detect alignment issues that require specialized treatment. At our office, Dr. Riaño stays in constant communication with his patients’ general dentist to ensure your dental health is optimally achieved and maintained. 

Conclusion

Both general dentists and orthodontists are essential to maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile. If you’re unsure whether you need orthodontic treatment, start with a consultation. We’re here to help guide you toward the best path for your smile’s long-term health!