When it comes to taking care of your teeth, you might hear the terms “dentist” and “orthodontist” thrown around a lot. While they both help keep your smile bright and healthy, their roles are actually quite different. Let’s break it down so you know exactly who to see for what!

Dentists are your go-to pros for general oral health. Dentists complete dental school, earning a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) degree, which equips them with extensive training in general dentistry. They handle everything from routine checkups to tackling pesky cavities. Here’s a quick rundown of what dentists do:

• Routine Checkups and Cleanings: Think teeth cleaning, fluoride treatments, and regular checkups to spot any early signs of trouble.
• Fillings and Tooth Decay: They fill cavities and treat tooth decay to keep your teeth in tip-top shape.
• Gum Disease Treatment: Dentists manage gum issues like gingivitis and periodontitis.
• Restorative Procedures: Need a crown, bridge, or implant? Your dentist has you covered.
• Cosmetic Procedures: Want a brighter smile? Dentists offer teeth whitening, veneers, and bonding.

Orthodontists are like the superheroes of straightening teeth. They’re dentists who’ve gone on to get extra training in aligning teeth and jaws. After dental school, orthodontists complete an additional two to three years of specialized training in an orthodontic residency program.

Here’s what orthodontists are all about:

• Braces and Clear Aligners: They fit you with braces or clear aligners like Invisalign to straighten teeth and fix bite issues.
• Retainers: After the braces come off, orthodontists provide retainers to keep your teeth in their new, perfect positions.
• Jaw Alignment: They treat alignment issues like overbites, underbites, and crossbites.
• Space Maintainers: For kids who lose baby teeth early, orthodontists use devices to keep space open for adult teeth.

Understanding the key differences between dentists and orthodontists can help you choose the right professional for your oral health needs. Here’s a quick comparison to clarify their distinct roles:

• Education and Training: Dentists finish dental school and focus on general oral health. Orthodontists complete dental school and then dive into an orthodontic residency.
• Scope of Practice: Dentists cover a wide range of oral health needs, from preventive care to cosmetic treatments. Orthodontists zero in on aligning teeth and jaws.
• Treatment Focus: Dentists address immediate oral health issues and provide preventive care. Orthodontists work on long-term alignment corrections, often with treatments that span several years.

Knowing when to see a dentist versus an orthodontist is essential for maintaining your oral health. Here’s a quick guide to help you determine which specialist to visit based on your needs:

• See a Dentist: Routine checkups, cleanings, fillings, gum care, and overall oral health maintenance.
• See an Orthodontist: Treatment for misaligned teeth, overbites, underbites, or other alignment issues with your teeth and jaw.

Both dentists and orthodontists play crucial roles in keeping your mouth healthy, but they specialize in different areas. Regular dentist visits are key for maintaining overall oral health, while orthodontist visits are essential for correcting alignment issues.

If you have any questions or need to schedule an orthodontic appointment, feel free to call our office at (770) 251-4444 or visit our website to request an appointment with Dr. Cranford! Your perfect smile awaits.