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If you’ve ever wondered whether you should see a dentist or an orthodontist for your smile concerns, you’re not alone. Both professionals work in the dental field and share a common goal: helping you maintain healthy teeth and gums. But when it comes to their education, training, and the types of treatments they provide, there are some important differences.
Understanding how a dentist and an orthodontist differ can help you make informed choices about your oral health — especially if you’re considering braces, clear aligners, or other specialized care.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between dentists and orthodontists, what each provider does, and when you should see one over the other.
What Is a Dentist?
A dentist is a general oral health care provider — much like a primary care doctor, but for your mouth. Dentists diagnose and treat a wide range of oral health conditions, including cavities, gum disease, and tooth pain.
Education & Training
All dentists must complete:
- A four-year undergraduate degree
- Four years of dental school to earn a DDS or DMD
- Licensure exams to practice general dentistry
Some may pursue additional training in specific areas like cosmetic dentistry, but most general dentists focus on preventive and restorative care.
What Dentists Do
Dentists help patients maintain overall oral health through:
- Routine cleanings and exams
- X-rays and oral cancer screenings
- Fillings, crowns, and root canals
- Tooth extractions
- Treatment for gum disease
- Teeth whitening and cosmetic procedures
Your dentist is typically the first provider to spot issues like cavities, infections, or early signs of misalignment. If necessary, they’ll refer you to a specialist — like an orthodontist.
What Is an Orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses specifically on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misalignments of the teeth and jaws — also known as malocclusions.
Education & Training
Orthodontists first complete all the requirements of general dentistry. Then they go on to complete:
- 2–3 additional years of orthodontic residency
- Focused training in facial growth, jaw development, biomechanics, and tooth movement
Only about 6% of dentists go on to become orthodontists.
What Orthodontists Do
Orthodontists specialize in straightening teeth and aligning the bite using tools such as:
- Braces (metal, clear, or self-ligating)
- Clear aligners (such as Invisalign)
- Expanders, retainers, and other oral appliances
- Surgical orthodontics in complex cases
- Interceptive treatment for kids (early phase orthodontics)
Their goal is to create a healthy, functional bite that improves both oral health and facial aesthetics.
Key Differences at a Glance
Here’s a simple breakdown comparing dentists and orthodontists:
| Category | Dentist | Orthodontist |
|---|---|---|
| General Role | Oral health maintenance | Tooth and jaw alignment |
| Education | 4 yrs undergrad + 4 yrs dental school | + 2–3 yrs orthodontic residency |
| Focus | Teeth, gums, oral hygiene | Bite correction, straightening teeth |
| Common Procedures | Cleanings, fillings, crowns, root canals | Braces, aligners, retainers |
| When to See | For exams, cavities, gum care | For crooked teeth, overbites, underbites |
Can Dentists Provide Braces or Aligners?
Some general dentists offer orthodontic services like clear aligners, often using third-party systems. However, they do not receive the same specialized training as orthodontists in managing tooth movement and bite development.
If your case is complex or involves jaw alignment, crowding, or severe bite issues, seeing an orthodontist ensures you’re getting expert care from a provider who focuses exclusively on these concerns.
When Should You See a Dentist vs. an Orthodontist?
See a dentist if you:
- Need a routine exam or cleaning
- Have a toothache or cavity
- Need restorative care like fillings or crowns
- Want cosmetic improvements (teeth whitening, bonding, etc.)
See an orthodontist if you:
- Have crowded or crooked teeth
- Notice gaps, overbites, or underbites
- Have trouble chewing or speaking clearly
- Are interested in braces or clear aligners
- Have jaw pain or clicking that may indicate alignment issues
In many cases, your dentist will refer you to an orthodontist if they detect a problem beyond general care.
Can You See Both Providers?
Yes — and in most cases, you should. Dentists and orthodontists work together to ensure you get complete oral care. While you’re in orthodontic treatment, you’ll still need to see your general dentist every 6 months for cleanings and checkups.
In fact, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is even more important during orthodontic treatment, since braces or aligners can make cleaning more challenging.
Specialized Care Leads to Better Results
Choosing the right provider for your needs can make a huge difference in the outcome of your treatment. While both dentists and orthodontists are highly trained professionals, their roles are distinct — and so are their areas of expertise.
If you’re concerned about your bite, tooth alignment, or your child’s jaw development, starting with an orthodontic evaluation is the best way to get clear answers.
Curious If Orthodontic Treatment Is Right for You?
If you’re wondering whether you or your child needs braces, aligners, or early intervention, the team at Cassinelli, Shanker & Associates Orthodontics can help.
We proudly serve West Chester Township, Blue Ash, and surrounding communities with advanced, compassionate care for patients of all ages.
Schedule your complimentary exam today to get a personalized plan for a healthier, more confident smile.