What Is the Difference Between a Dentist and an Orthodontist?
When it comes to maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile, most people know they need to visit the dentist regularly. But when issues like crooked teeth, jaw misalignment, or bite problems arise, you might be referred to another specialist: the orthodontist. This is where confusion often begins. Are orthodontists just specialized dentists? Can a dentist straighten teeth too? What exactly sets them apart?
In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between a dentist and an orthodontist, their respective roles in your oral health, and when you should see one over the other. Whether you're a parent exploring options for your child’s braces, an adult considering Invisalign, or simply curious about your care providers, this guide will give you clear, detailed answers.
Education & Training: A Shared Foundation—Then Specialization
Both dentists and orthodontists begin their careers with a similar educational path: completing a bachelor's degree followed by a four-year dental school program to become a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD). At this stage, a dentist is fully trained and licensed to practice general dentistry.
Orthodontists, however, go several steps further. After dental school, they undergo an additional 2–3 years of specialized training in orthodontics through a residency program. This advanced training focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws.
➡️ Key Point: All orthodontists are dentists, but only about 6% of dentists go on to become orthodontists.
What Is the Difference Between a Dentist and an Orthodontist?
When it comes to maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile, most people know they need to visit the dentist regularly. But when issues like crooked teeth, jaw misalignment, or bite problems arise, you might be referred to another specialist: the orthodontist. This is where confusion often begins. Are orthodontists just specialized dentists? Can a dentist straighten teeth too? What exactly sets them apart?
In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between a dentist and an orthodontist, their respective roles in your oral health, and when you should see one over the other. Whether you're a parent exploring options for your child’s braces, an adult considering Invisalign, or simply curious about your care providers, this guide will give you clear, detailed answers.
Education & Training: A Shared Foundation—Then Specialization
Both dentists and orthodontists begin their careers with a similar educational path: completing a bachelor's degree followed by a four-year dental school program to become a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD). At this stage, a dentist is fully trained and licensed to practice general dentistry.
Orthodontists, however, go several steps further. After dental school, they undergo an additional 2–3 years of specialized training in orthodontics through a residency program. This advanced training focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws.
➡️ Key Point: All orthodontists are dentists, but only about 6% of dentists go on to become orthodontists.
Scope of Practice: General vs. Specialized Care
Dentists focus on overall oral health. Their services include:
Routine cleanings and exams
Fillings, crowns, and root canals
Gum disease treatment
Oral hygiene education
Tooth extractions and cosmetic procedures
Orthodontists, on the other hand, specialize in:
Diagnosing and treating bite issues (malocclusion)
Correcting tooth and jaw alignment
Designing and managing braces, clear aligners (like Invisalign), and retainers
Guiding facial growth (especially in children)
Managing complex orthodontic cases involving surgery
➡️ Analogy: Think of your dentist like a general practitioner for your mouth, and your orthodontist as a highly trained specialist—like a cardiologist is to a doctor.
Tools of the Trade
While both dentists and orthodontists use tools like X-rays and digital scanners, orthodontists are equipped with advanced systems for:
3D modeling and bite simulation
Digital orthodontic planning software
Specialized orthodontic appliances like expanders, lingual braces, and functional appliances
Orthodontists also stay up-to-date on the latest tooth movement techniques, biomechanical principles, and long-term bite stabilization methods.
When Should You See an Orthodontist Instead of a Dentist?
Here are signs it might be time to consult an orthodontist:
Crowded, crooked, or gapped teeth
Overbite, underbite, or crossbite
Jaw pain or clicking
Difficulty chewing or speaking
Mouth breathing or thumb sucking (in children)
Early or late loss of baby teeth
Even if your general dentist doesn’t refer you, you don’t need a referral to see an orthodontist—many patients self-refer for cosmetic or bite concerns.
Working Together for Your Smile
Dentists and orthodontists often collaborate closely to give you the best care possible. For example, a dentist may recommend braces before placing veneers or dental implants, while an orthodontist may coordinate with a dentist to address oral hygiene concerns during orthodontic treatment.
✅ Takeaway: Choose the Right Expert for Your Needs
Understanding the difference helps ensure you're getting the right care at the right time. Both professionals are vital for maintaining oral health, and depending on your needs, you may benefit from seeing both!
? Ready to Straighten Your Smile?
If you think orthodontic treatment might be right for you or your child, schedule a consultation with our team today. No referral needed—just a desire for a healthier, more confident smile!
