Dentists and orthodontists both are committed to keeping our mouths, teeth, and gums healthy. While there are significant crossovers and a shared base of training, a general dentist diagnoses and treats conditions involving your teeth, gums and mouth. Orthodontists are specialists who focus on the alignment of your teeth and your jaws.
Some general dentists take course work in orthodontic principles to expand their skill sets, understanding of procedures, and provide a more well-rounded perspective.
What a General Dentist Does
Dentists are doctors of oral health. They are charged with caring for a variety of health conditions related to your teeth, gums, and mouth. While dental hygienists often clean teeth for a dentist, general dentists are trained to clean teeth as well. General dentists, which according to The American Dental Association (ADA) make up more than 80 percent of practicing dentists, provide a variety of oral health care including:
- Filling cavities
- Taking and reading x-rays
- Repairing and removing damaged teeth
- Encouraging oral health and hygiene
- Treating gum disease
- Prescribing medications for treatment
- Oral surgery
- Restorative dentistry
Some general dentists, like Dr. Julie Glud, continue to take course work on orthodontic principles and offer orthodontic services such as Invisalign to straighten teeth.
General dentists also work with orthodontists and other specialists when their patients require more specialized care.
What an Orthodontist Does
Orthodontists start with the same education as a general dentist but then take additional schooling focused on their specialty. Orthodontists make up only about six percent of the dental industry. While they can do many tasks of the general dentist, they typically work on making sure your teeth and jaw are set correctly. Some of the common treatment and processes for a orthodontist include:
- Installing and maintaining dental appliances such as braces, palatal expanders, or orthodontic headgear
- Administering teeth straightening procedures and surgery
- Diagnosing and designing treatment plans for misaligned jaws and teeth
Do I need an orthodontist or a general dentist?
Everyone should visit a general dentist to help maintain a healthy smile. General dentists are like project managers for your mouth and oral health. They typically like to see patients twice a year for cleanings and to make sure the teeth, gums, and jaw remain in good working order.
Many patients will never need to see an orthodontist as the treatment available from their general dentist will keep them on track. Most general dentists, however, have a network of specialists, including orthodontists, that they refer patients out to when the patient’s needs require a different skill set.
The engagement with the orthodontist will typically last through the course of treatment, where the relationship with your general dentist can often last a lifetime.
Basically, if your general dentist refers you to an orthodontist, then you need to see one. Until then, a general dentist will likely be able to provide the care you need.
General Dentistry in Lombard, Illinois
To learn more about the differences between orthodontists and general dentists, contact Dental Care of Lombard. Dr. Glud and our team can help you determine the best options for your dental issues. Send us a message online or call-630-629-5700.
