Dentists and orthodontists both play an important role in looking after your teeth, but they focus on different areas of care.
Your dentist is usually your first stop for general oral health, including check-ups, cleans, fillings and gum health. An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed additional specialist training in orthodontics, with a focus on the alignment of the teeth and jaws.
So, when should you see a dentist and when might you need an orthodontist? Here’s what you need to know.
Quick Summary:
- Dentists provide general dental care, including check-ups, cleans, fillings and treatment for teeth and gums.
- Orthodontists are dentists who have completed additional specialist training in orthodontics.
- Orthodontists focus on diagnosing and treating concerns with tooth alignment and the bite.
- Both dentists and orthodontists can play a role in your oral health, and you may see both during orthodontic treatment.
What is a Dentist?
A dentist looks after your general oral health, including your teeth, gums and mouth. Regular dental visits can help identify and manage concerns such as tooth decay, gum disease and other oral health issues.
Depending on their training and scope of practice, dentists may provide services including:
- Dental check-ups and cleans
- Fillings
- Crowns and bridges
- Gum care
- Tooth extractions
- Preventive dental care
Your dentist also continues to play an important role while you’re having orthodontic treatment, particularly when it comes to keeping your teeth and gums healthy.
What is an Orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed additional specialist training in orthodontics.
They focus on diagnosing and treating concerns with the position of the teeth and jaws, including crowding, spacing and certain bite problems such as overbite, underbite and crossbite.
Orthodontic treatment can include braces, clear aligners and other appliances, depending on the patient’s individual needs.
Dentist vs Orthodontist: Key Differences
| Dentist | Orthodontist | |
|---|---|---|
| Primary focus | General oral health | Tooth and jaw alignment |
| Training | Qualified dentist | Qualified dentist + specialist orthodontic training |
| Common care | Check-ups, cleans, fillings, gum care | Braces, clear aligners and other orthodontic appliances |
| When you might see them | Routine dental care or a dental concern | Concerns with tooth position, crowding, spacing or bite |
When Should You See an Orthodontist?
Orthodontists are dentists who have completed additional specialist training in orthodontics, with a focus on diagnosing and treating concerns with the alignment of the teeth and jaws.
At Urban Smile, every clear aligner treatment plan is designed by one of our Specialist Orthodontists, Dr Igor Lavrin or Dr Sarah Lawrence. Together, they bring decades of experience in orthodontics and oversee your clear aligner treatment from planning through to completion.
Considering clear aligners? Book a consultation with Urban Smile to have your teeth and bite assessed and find out whether clear aligner treatment may be suitable for you.
Consultation required to assess suitability. Our Specialist Orthodontists will advise whether clear aligner treatment is appropriate for your individual needs.
Related Articles:
- How Do You Choose the Best Orthodontic Practice?
- How to Choose the Best Orthodontist in Melbourne for Clear Aligners?
FAQs
Yes. Some general dentists provide orthodontic treatment, including clear aligners, depending on their training and scope of practice. An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed additional specialist training specifically in orthodontics. Their practice focuses on diagnosing and treating concerns with tooth position, jaw alignment and the bite.
Orthodontists primarily provide non-surgical orthodontic treatment. For some complex jaw concerns, orthodontic treatment may be planned alongside surgery performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. If this is required, your orthodontist will discuss this with you and coordinate your care with the appropriate specialist.
Yes. In Australia, an orthodontist first qualifies and practises as a dentist before completing additional postgraduate specialist training in orthodontics. To use the title Specialist Orthodontist, they must also meet the relevant specialist registration requirements.
You don’t usually need a dentist referral to see an orthodontist. However, good oral health is important before and during orthodontic treatment. If your orthodontic assessment identifies concerns such as tooth decay or gum disease, you may be advised to see your dentist before starting treatment. Your dentist and orthodontist can continue to work together throughout your orthodontic treatment.
Dentist or Orthodontist: Who Should You See?
If you need a routine dental check-up or have concerns about your teeth or gums, your general dentist is usually the right place to start.
If you’re concerned about the position of your teeth or bite, or you’re considering orthodontic treatment such as clear aligners, an orthodontist can assess your individual needs and discuss your treatment options.
At Urban Smile, every clear aligner treatment plan is designed by a Specialist Orthodontist. Book a free consultation to have your teeth and bite assessed and find out whether clear aligners may be suitable for you.
Consultation required to assess suitability. Our Specialist Orthodontists will advise whether clear aligner treatment is appropriate for your individual needs.