Considering your oral health care needs, you may wonder about the difference between dentists and orthodontists. These doctors focus on your teeth, gums, and jaws but with distinct areas of expertise. Dentists provide
- General care for teeth and gums,
- diagnosing and treating cavities,
- gum disease, and
- other common dental problems.
On the other hand, Orthodontists in Indore receive additional specialized education and training to focus specifically on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws.
So, how do you determine whether to see your Dentist in Indore or schedule an appointment with an orthodontist? The type of treatment you need depends on your unique situation and goals.
This article will outline the key differences between these two kinds of oral health professionals so you can choose and get the best care for your smile.
What Does a Dentist Do?
As a patient, it is crucial to understand the differences between dentists and orthodontists so you can receive the proper care for your needs.
A dentist is a doctor who specializes in general dentistry, focusing on your overall oral health. Dentists are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting your gums, teeth, tongue, and mouth.
Standard procedures performed by Dentist in Indore include fillings, crowns, bridges, root canals, and extractions. Dentists can also educate you on proper brushing and flossing techniques to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent issues.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
Orthodontists are dental specialists who focus on correcting improper bites and straightening teeth. They use braces, retainers, and other appliances to align your teeth and jaws to improve your dental health and smile. Orthodontic treatment typically begins in childhood or adolescence but can be done at any age.
As a dental specialty, orthodontists complete an additional 2-3 years of education beyond dental school to learn how to align and straighten teeth properly. This specialized education provides Orthodontists in Indore with the knowledge and skills to diagnose and treat complex dental and facial irregularities.
Orthodontist vs. Dentist Qualifications
To become a dentist, you must earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from an accredited dental school. This usually requires four years of study after college. Dentists treat oral health issues like cavities, gum disease, and oral hygiene.
Orthodontists receive additional education and training beyond dental school in an orthodontic residency program. This typically lasts 2-3 years. Orthodontists are dentists correcting bites, straightening teeth, and aligning jaws. They treat malocclusions or “bad bites” using braces, retainers, and other corrective measures.
While dentists can perform some orthodontic treatment, orthodontists have far more extensive knowledge and skills. They use sophisticated computer software to analyze jaws and teeth and determine the best course of corrective treatment. An Orthodontists in Indore is the best choice if you need complex orthodontic work like braces or if you have a child with a developing jaw and teeth.
Should I See an Orthodontist or Dentist?
Should you see an orthodontist or dentist for your oral health needs? The answer depends on your specific conditions and concerns.
Orthodontists in Indore
Orthodontists are dental specialists who focus on correcting bites, straightening teeth, and aligning jaws. They receive additional education and training beyond dental school to learn advanced skills to diagnose and treat misaligned teeth and jaws properly. If you have concerns like underbite, overbite, crossbite, or crowding of teeth, an Orthodontists in Indore is best equipped to develop an effective treatment plan, which often involves braces or clear aligners.
Dentists in Indore
Dentists provide routine oral care like teeth cleanings, fillings, crowns, and tooth extractions. They are trained to spot signs of oral health issues and refer patients to specialists like orthodontists when needed. A Dentist in Indore will suit you well for most basic dental needs like checkups, fillings, or cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening. However, complex cases typically call for an orthodontist’s expertise.
In summary, while orthodontists and dentists are oral healthcare professionals, their areas of expertise differ. An orthodontist is your best choice for severe bite or tooth alignment issues. But a dentist can capably serve your needs for routine care and minor cosmetic dentistry. Most importantly, you get the specific treatment you require to enjoy excellent oral and overall health.
Conclusion
As you can see, dentists and orthodontists are doctors focused on oral healthcare, but they have different areas of specialization. Dentists provide general dental care for your teeth and gums. Orthodontists, however, specialize in correcting improper bites and straightening teeth.
So, if you have cavities or need a routine cleaning, visit your dentist. But, an orthodontist is better equipped to diagnose and treat the problem correctly for crooked teeth, overbites, or underbites. Understanding the difference between these two types of oral healthcare professionals will ensure you get the specific care you need to maintain a healthy smile for life.