Dentist and orthodontist are often used interchangeably, but they are distinct professions. While both focus on oral health, they represent different levels of training and scope of practice. Understanding this difference helps determine which professional to consult for specific dental needs.
The Core Relationship: General Dentist Versus Specialist
Every orthodontist is a dentist, but only a small percentage of dentists are orthodontists. Dentists who specialize in alignment and bite correction become orthodontists, similar to how a medical doctor specializes in cardiology. The general dentist functions as the primary care provider for the entire oral cavity.
A general dentist’s role is expansive, covering the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions affecting the teeth, gums, and mouth. They provide comprehensive care for patients of all ages, focusing on overall oral hygiene and health maintenance. The orthodontist is a specialist whose practice is narrowly focused on correcting dentofacial irregularities. This specialty involves manipulating teeth and guiding jaw development to achieve proper alignment and function.
Distinct Education and Training Requirements
Both career paths begin with the same foundational education: four years of undergraduate study followed by four years of dental school. Graduates earn either a Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) or a Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) degree, qualifying them to practice as a general dentist. This initial background is why all orthodontists hold the title of dentist.
The path diverges for those aspiring to specialization. To become an orthodontist, the graduate must be accepted into an accredited orthodontic residency program. This is a highly competitive process, and only a limited number of graduates are accepted each year. This specialized training involves an additional two to three years of focused, full-time study and clinical practice.
The residency curriculum provides intensive instruction in biomechanics, growth and development, and the detailed diagnostics required for moving teeth through bone. This additional training distinguishes an orthodontist as a specialist. Some orthodontists pursue board certification through the American Board of Orthodontics, which is a voluntary step demonstrating a commitment to the highest standards of the specialty.
When to See a Dentist Versus an Orthodontist
For routine oral healthcare, including regular examinations, professional cleanings, X-rays, and treating common issues like cavities, the general dentist is the appropriate professional. They are the first line of defense for maintaining the health of the teeth and gums. The dentist should also be consulted for immediate concerns such as toothaches or suspected infections.
The orthodontist specializes in the alignment of teeth and the correction of the bite. Patients should seek an orthodontist for problems like malocclusion (poor bite), overcrowding, excessive spacing, or jaw alignment issues (such as overbite or underbite). Their expertise is necessary for planning and implementing treatments like traditional braces, clear aligners, and corrective appliances. Often, the general dentist spots potential alignment issues during a routine check-up and provides a referral for specialized treatment.