Orthodontist VS Dentist: Which One Should You Choose for Your Orthodontic Treatment?

Are you having orthodontic problems and are not sure whether to go to an orthodontist or a dentist? Choosing the right professional is essential when it comes to orthodontic treatment, as getting orthodontic care from the right specialist is essential for achieving perfect orthodontic results. This article will discuss orthodontists and dentists to help you decide who to go to for orthodontic treatment.

Introduction

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that specializes in diagnosing, preventing, and treating orthodontic problems, or misalignments of the teeth and jaws. Orthodontists and dentists both provide orthodontic care, but orthodontists specialize in orthodontics while dentists are general practitioners who may or may not offer orthodontic services.

Who is an Orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed at least two additional years of orthodontic training after dental school. Orthodontists are able to diagnose and treat orthodontic problems using various orthodontic appliances, such as braces and retainers. They also have the expertise to choose the best orthodontic treatment plan for each patient and to make sure that it is carried out properly.

Who is a Dentist?

A dentist is a healthcare professional who specializes in treating oral health problems, such as cavities, gum disease, and orthodontic issues. Many dentists offer orthodontic services, such as orthodontic appliances, orthodontic advice, and orthodontic treatments. However, they may not have the same expertise as orthodontists in diagnosing and treating orthodontic problems.

When to See an Orthodontist vs a Dentist?

If you are experiencing orthodontic problems, such as crooked teeth, overcrowding, an incorrect bite, or jaw misalignment, it is best to see an orthodontist. Orthodontists are the specialists in orthodontics and are more qualified than dentists to diagnose orthodontic issues and prescribe orthodontic treatments.

However, if you are only experiencing minor orthodontic issues, such as mild misalignment of the teeth or a slight overbite, then it may be OK to see a dentist. Your dentist can advise you on whether orthodontics are necessary and can provide orthodontic treatments if needed.

Conclusion

Choosing the right orthodontic professional is important for achieving orthodontic results. Orthodontists are the specialists in orthodontics and have completed additional orthodontic training after dental school. They can diagnose orthodontic problems accurately and provide effective orthodontic treatments. On the other hand, dentists are general practitioners who may provide orthodontic services. If you are having orthodontic problems, it is best to see an orthodontist for the most accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Book appointment with our Carmel orthodontist at Emerick Orthodontics today.

FAQs

1. Who should I go to for orthodontic treatment?

If you are having orthodontic problems, it is best to see an orthodontist. Orthodontists are the specialists in orthodontics and can diagnose orthodontic issues accurately and provide effective orthodontic treatments.

2. Can dentists provide orthodontic treatment?

Yes, some dentists offer orthodontic services, such as orthodontic appliances, orthodontic advice, and orthodontic treatments. However, they may not have the same expertise as orthodontists in diagnosing and treating orthodontic problems.

3. How do I know if I need to see an orthodontist or a dentist?

If you are experiencing orthodontic problems, such as crooked teeth, overcrowding, an incorrect bite, or jaw misalignment, it is best to see an orthodontist. However, if you are only having minor orthodontic issues, such as mild misalignment of the teeth or a slight overbite, then it may be OK to see a dentist. Your dentist can advise you on whether orthodontics are necessary and can provide orthodontic treatments if needed.