Most people know they should visit a dentist regularly to maintain their oral health, but what about an orthodontist? While both professionals play essential roles in dental care, their expertise and treatment focus differ significantly. Some dental issues require the attention of a general dentist, while others need specialised orthodontic care. This distinction leads to an important question: When it comes to orthodontist vs. dentist, who should you see for your specific dental needs?
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between orthodontists and dentists, the treatments they provide, and when you should visit one over the other.
What Is a Dentist?
A dentist is a healthcare professional trained to diagnose, prevent, and treat oral health problems. Dentists are general practitioners of dental care, much like how general doctors handle overall health concerns.
What Do Dentists Do?
Dentists handle a wide range of treatments, including:
- Routine dental check-ups and cleanings to maintain oral hygiene
- Cavity detection and fillings to prevent tooth decay from worsening
- Gum disease treatment for conditions like gingivitis or periodontitis
- Tooth extractions when a tooth is damaged beyond repair
- Teeth whitening and cosmetic procedures to enhance smile aesthetics
- Root canal treatments to save infected teeth
Dentists can provide some orthodontic treatments, such as clear aligners or minor teeth adjustments, but they are not specialists in advanced bite correction or complex misalignment cases.
What Is an Orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dentist who has undergone additional specialised training in diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. While all orthodontists are qualified dentists, not all dentists are orthodontists.
What Do Orthodontists Do?
Orthodontists focus on treatments related to teeth alignment and bite correction, including:
- Braces (metal, ceramic, lingual) for correcting crooked teeth
- Invisalign and clear aligners for mild to moderate misalignment
- Retainers to maintain results after braces or aligners
- Jaw alignment treatments for overbites, underbites, and crossbites
- Early intervention for children to guide proper dental development
Since orthodontic treatments require long-term planning and adjustments, orthodontists often work with patients for months or even years to achieve optimal results.
Key Differences Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist
While both professionals contribute to oral health, their focus areas and expertise differ significantly.
Training and Education
- Dentists: Complete a general dental degree (usually 4-5 years) and can begin practising immediately
- Orthodontists: Undergo additional 2-3 years of specialised training after dental school, focusing solely on teeth and jaw alignment
Types of Treatment
- Dentists: Treat general oral health concerns, such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth extractions
- Orthodontists: Specialise in teeth straightening, bite correction, and jaw misalignment
Use of Braces and Aligners
- Dentists: May provide basic orthodontic solutions (such as Invisalign), but only for mild cases.
- Orthodontists: Handle complex orthodontic cases that require braces, jaw realignment, or advanced aligner treatment.
When Should You See a Dentist vs. an Orthodontist?
Choosing between a dentist and an orthodontist depends on the nature of your dental concerns.
See a Dentist If You Need:
- Routine dental check-ups and cleanings
- Treatment for cavities, gum disease, or tooth extractions
- Teeth whitening and cosmetic procedures for a brighter smile
- Root canal treatment to save an infected tooth
See an Orthodontist If You Need:
- Braces or Invisalign for teeth straightening
- Treatment for jaw misalignment (overbite, underbite, crossbite)
- Correction of severe crowding or spacing between teeth
- Retainers or follow-up care after braces
If you’re unsure whether to see a dentist or orthodontist, starting with a dentist is often a good first step. They can assess your condition and refer you to an orthodontist if specialised treatment is required.
How to Find the Right Orthodontist in Singapore
If you require orthodontic care, there are quite a number of orthodontists in Singapore who can help you. Here are some tips for finding a qualified professional:
- Look for certified specialists – Ensure the orthodontist is accredited by the Singapore Dental Council (SDC).
- Check reviews and testimonials – Feedback from previous patients can provide insights into the orthodontist’s expertise and approach.
- Ask about treatment options – Some orthodontists specialise in Invisalign, lingual braces, or ceramic braces, so find one that offers the treatment that best suits your needs.
- Consider location and convenience – Since orthodontic treatments require multiple visits over several months, choosing a clinic close to home or work can make the process easier.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Professional for Your Dental Needs
When it comes to whether to consult an orthodontist or a dentist, the choice depends on your specific dental concerns.
- Visit a dentist for general oral health care, including cleanings, fillings, and extractions.
- See an orthodontist if you need specialised teeth straightening or bite correction treatments.
Both professionals play a crucial role in maintaining oral health, and in some cases, working with both a dentist and an orthodontist may be necessary for complete dental care. If you’re unsure who to visit first, a dentist can evaluate your situation and refer you to an orthodontist if needed.
No matter your dental needs, investing in professional care is the best way to achieve a healthy, confident smile for years to come.
