Many people tend to ask, “what is the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?” You likely visit your dentist twice a year. However, when are you supposed to see an orthodontist? Let us take a look at the differences between a dentist and an orthodontist!
What does training look like for an orthodontist vs. a dentist?
It may come as a surprise, but orthodontists and dentists initially take the same training; however, orthodontists complete further training even after they graduate dental school. According to the ADA, a dentist needs to complete four years of undergraduate education and another four years at dental school. Even after completing their studies, dentists have to pass many exams, including a clinical licensing exam, before opening their practice.
On the other hand, orthodontic training goes even further than dental training and has a much more specific focus. With an orthodontist, additional education includes a two-three year residency, including more than 4,800 hours of orthodontic training.
What exactly does a dentist do?
A qualified dentist, like Dynamic Dental solutions, treats your overall oral health. During your regular checkup, your dentist will check to make sure you don’t have tartar, cavities, or other conditions that could harm your teeth. In addition, your dentist will help improve your teeth’ appearance, if needed, through veneers, crowns, and other various methods. Furthermore, your dentist checks your mouth for any signs of oral diseases. Following the checkup, your dentist will give you excellent advice on the most efficient ways to maintain your oral health. If your dentist sees an issue that they can’t treat, they will refer you to a dental specialist, such as an orthodontist. Sometimes, they may refer you to a physician based on your needs.
What exactly does an orthodontist do?
An orthodontist specializes in aligning jaws and moving teeth. In practice, an orthodontist offers treatment to help fix certain issues. Some issues include gaps between teeth, teeth that stick out, crowded teeth, and jaws that don’t align correctly.
Orthodontists use many tools to help fix your jaws and teeth into proper position. Some tools include lingual braces, traditional braces, clear aligners, and much more. In addition, your orthodontist will use photographs and x-rays to create an individualized treatment plan based on what is best for you!
Are you in need of dental services?
We hope the question” what is the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist” is clearer! If you require help with your teeth, you have come to the right place! Dynamic Dental Solutions is here to help with all of your dental necessities. We are your local dentist in Baytown, Texas; we want to ensure you have a dentist that authentically cares about you and your family. To learn more, call us today at (281) 837-9090 . You can also visit our website at www.dentistbaytown.com .