Is an orthodontist actually a dentist?

Yes, an orthodontist is also a dentist - but with extra training. An orthodontist is a qualified dentist who has completed several additional years of specialization. That means you can’t just visit a general dentist for orthodontic treatment - or see an orthodontist for a filling.

# What does a dentist do?

A dentist’s main job is to take care of your overall oral health. Dentists typically focus on:

• Regular check-ups
  Treating cavities
• Root canal treatments
• Dental cleaning and removal of tartar

The dentist is usually the first person you consult for any dental issues. If needed, they’ll refer you to a specialist, such as an orthodontist.

# What does an orthodontist do?

An orthodontist is a certified dentist who has completed further training in orthodontics after finishing dental school.

The word ‘orthodontics’ comes from the Greek words orthos (straight) and odous (tooth). So yes, you could say an orthodontist is someone who specializes in ‘straight teeth’. But their work goes beyond just alignment.

Orthodontists typically deal with:

• Straightening misaligned teeth
• Correcting jaw irregularities at an early age
• Placing and adjusting various types of braces (traditional braces, aligners, butterfly braces, night retainer …)

In short, orthodontists focus on how teeth and jaws align, while dentists focus on overall dental health.

# When should you see a dentist, and when an orthodontist?

You visit the dentist for routine oral care. If you have tooth pain, suspect a cavity, or notice gum problems, the dentist is the right professional to consult. A dentist can also assess whether orthodontic treatment might be necessary.

You go to an orthodontist if your teeth are misaligned or if your jaw isn’t positioned correctly. Children are usually referred to an orthodontist automatically by their dentist when braces might be needed.

# Is an orthodontist better than a dentist?

Some people think it’s better to see an orthodontist for all dental problems, because ‘they’re specialists, so they must know more’, right?

That’s a misunderstanding. The difference between a dentist and an orthodontist isn’t about quality - it’s about specialization.

An orthodontist isn’t better than a dentist, but is highly trained in a specific area of dentistry that general dentists are not. For standard dental care, the dentist is your go-to expert. But if you need help with teeth or jaw alignment, then the orthodontist is the right specialist.

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So - Is an orthodontist a dentist? Yes. An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed additional training to specialize in correcting teeth and jaw alignment.

Want to find out if you need braces? Your dentist can refer you - or you can make an appointment directly with an orthodontist.

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