When it comes to oral health, it’s common to hear about both dentists and orthodontists, but what exactly is the difference between these two types of dental professionals? While they both focus on your teeth, their roles and expertise differ significantly. At Medivance Dental, we believe in educating our patients so they understand who to see for their specific needs. In this blog, we’ll explain the key differences between a dentist and an orthodontist and how a dentist in Perth can guide you to the right specialist for your care.
What Does a Dentist Do?
A dentist is a general healthcare professional who focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of dental issues related to your teeth, gums, and mouth. Dentists are trained to handle a wide range of oral health problems and provide essential services, including:
Services Provided by Dentists:
- Routine Check-ups and Cleanings: Dentists perform regular exams to monitor your oral health, check for cavities, gum disease, and other issues, and provide professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
- Fillings and Crowns: If you have cavities or damaged teeth, dentists are trained to restore the tooth’s function and appearance with fillings, crowns, and other restorations.
- Root Canals: Dentists can perform root canal treatments to save a tooth that has become infected or damaged.
- Tooth Extractions: If a tooth is too damaged to be repaired, a dentist can remove it.
- Preventive Care: Dentists offer preventive treatments like fluoride applications and dental sealants to protect your teeth from decay.
- Treatment of Gum Disease: Dentists diagnose and treat issues with your gums, such as gingivitis or periodontal disease, and can provide treatment to restore gum health.
- Cosmetic Dentistry: Many dentists also specialize in cosmetic procedures, such as teeth whitening, veneers, and bonding, to improve the appearance of your smile.
Dentists can handle most general oral health needs, but sometimes, more specialized care is required. This is where an orthodontist comes in.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial abnormalities, particularly related to the alignment of your teeth and jaws. Orthodontists receive additional training beyond dental school, completing several years of specialized education and clinical practice in orthodontics.
Services Provided by Orthodontists:
- Braces: Orthodontists are best known for using braces to straighten teeth. They apply brackets, wires, and other appliances to align the teeth and jaws over time.
- Invisalign: For those who prefer a more discreet option, orthodontists offer Invisalign, a series of clear aligners that gradually shift teeth into proper alignment.
- Jaw Alignment Issues: If you have a misaligned bite, such as an overbite, underbite, or crossbite, an orthodontist can help correct these issues using various appliances.
- Retainers: After orthodontic treatment (like braces), orthodontists will provide retainers to ensure your teeth remain in their new, correct positions.
Orthodontists typically treat patients who need more complex alignment or bite correction. If you have concerns about the appearance of your teeth or jaw, an orthodontist is the best specialist to visit.
Key Differences Between a Dentist and an Orthodontist:
| Aspect | Dentist | Orthodontist |
| Training | General dental school, 4 years of study | 2-3 years of additional orthodontic training after dental school |
| Focus | General oral health, prevention, and treatment | Specialized in tooth alignment, braces, and jaw issues |
| Services Provided | Check-ups, fillings, cleanings, root canals, crowns, extractions, cosmetic dentistry | Braces, Invisalign, jaw alignment, retainers |
| Treatment Scope | Treats common dental issues like cavities, gum disease, and cosmetic treatments | Focuses on long-term teeth and jaw alignment |
| Patient Age Range | Treats all ages from children to adults | Primarily treats children and teens, but also adults for alignment issues |
| Procedures | More routine procedures like fillings, cleanings, and exams | Complex procedures related to braces and jaw corrections |
When Should You See a Dentist vs. an Orthodontist?
While both professionals are important for maintaining good oral health, the decision of which one to visit depends on your needs:
- See a Dentist if:
- You need a routine checkup or cleaning.
- You have a cavity or require restorative treatments.
- You’re experiencing issues with your gums, such as bleeding or sensitivity.
- You want cosmetic treatments like whitening or veneers.
- See an Orthodontist if:
- You have concerns about the alignment of your teeth or jaw.
- You need braces or other orthodontic treatments to correct crooked teeth or bite issues.
- You want a consultation about Invisalign or other clear aligners.
How Can a Dentist in Perth Help You?
A dentist in Perth can help guide you to the right specialist based on your oral health needs. At Medivance Dental, we offer general dental services, and our team can help assess whether you need orthodontic care. If you do, we’ll refer you to an experienced orthodontist who can help with your specific concerns.
Conclusion:
While both dentists and orthodontists play important roles in maintaining your oral health, they focus on different aspects of care. A dentist in Perth handles routine dental procedures, while an orthodontist specializes in alignment and bite issues. If you’re unsure which specialist you need, don’t hesitate to reach out to Medivance Dental. We can help assess your needs and refer you to the appropriate professional. Visit our Contact Us page to schedule your appointment today!
FAQs
- What does a general dentist do?
A general dentist in Perth provides routine dental care like check-ups, fillings, cleanings, extractions, and preventive treatments. They’re your go-to for overall oral health. - What does an orthodontist specialise in?
Orthodontists focus on aligning teeth and jaws. They treat issues like crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, and gaps—usually with braces or clear aligners like Invisalign. - Can a general dentist do orthodontic work?
Some general dentists offer orthodontic treatments, especially clear aligners. However, complex alignment cases are best handled by a qualified orthodontist. - Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist in Perth?
No referral is needed. You can book directly, though your general dentist may refer you if they notice alignment or bite issues during a check-up. - Is orthodontic treatment just for kids and teens?
Not at all. Many adults seek orthodontic care for both functional and cosmetic reasons. Modern options like Invisalign make it easier and more discreet than ever.
