What Is the Difference Between a Dentist and an Orthodontist...

If you’re living in Hoboken or Jersey City, NJ and considering improving your smile, you might be wondering about the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist. While both professionals play essential roles in maintaining your oral health, they focus on different aspects of care.

In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between a dentist and an orthodontist to help you understand who you should see for your specific needs.

Both dentists and orthodontists start with the same foundational education. They complete a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree after graduating from dental school. However, the similarities in their education paths end there.

Dentists: After earning their DDS or DMD, dentists can begin practicing general dentistry. They are trained to handle a wide range of dental issues, from routine cleanings and fillings to more complex procedures like root canals and dental crowns. Most general dentists provide preventative care and treat common oral health problems.

Orthodontists: After dental school, orthodontists undergo an additional 2-3 years of specialized training in an orthodontic residency program. This extra education focuses specifically on diagnosing and treating malocclusions (improper bites) and other misalignments of the teeth and jaws. This training allows orthodontists to become experts in treatments like braces, Invisalign, and other appliances designed to straighten teeth.

If you’re interested in learning more about what orthodontists do, check out our About page for a deeper dive into the expertise we offer at Hoboken Orthodontics.

The scope of practice between a dentist and an orthodontist is another significant difference.

General Dentists: Dentists serve as primary care providers for your overall oral health. They perform a wide variety of treatments, including:

• Routine exams and cleanings
• Cavity fillings
• Tooth extractions
• Cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening
• Treating gum disease

For more detailed information on the services provided by general dentists, you can visit the American Dental Association’s website.

Orthodontists: Orthodontists specialize in correcting the alignment of teeth and jaws. They are the go-to experts for:

• Braces: Traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and other types designed to align teeth over time.
• Invisalign: A clear, removable alternative to braces that gradually straightens teeth.
• Retainers: Used post-treatment to maintain the position of straightened teeth.
• Jaw alignment: Treating overbites, underbites, and other jaw irregularities.

If you’re specifically looking for orthodontic treatment near Hoboken or Jersey City, consider scheduling a consultation with us at Hoboken Orthodontics, where we specialize in these treatments.

Knowing when to visit a dentist versus an orthodontist can be crucial in ensuring you get the right care.

Visit a Dentist:

• For regular check-ups and cleanings
• When you experience tooth pain or suspect a cavity
• For treatments like fillings, crowns, and root canals
• For cosmetic enhancements such as teeth whitening

Regular visits to your dentist help maintain your overall oral health and can prevent more severe issues from developing.

Visit an Orthodontist:

• If you’re noticing that your teeth are misaligned or crowded
• When your dentist recommends orthodontic treatment
• If you have difficulty biting, chewing, or speaking due to jaw alignment
• If you’re interested in improving your smile with braces or Invisalign

At Hoboken Orthodontics, we offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. Whether you live in Hoboken or Jersey City, we’re here to help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile.

Dentists and orthodontists often work together to ensure comprehensive oral health care. Your dentist may refer you to an orthodontist if they identify an issue that requires specialized care. Likewise, once your orthodontic treatment is complete, your orthodontist will collaborate with your dentist to maintain your new smile.

We’re committed to working closely with your dentist to ensure that you receive the best care possible. This collaborative approach ensures that all aspects of your oral health are addressed, from general dental care to specialized orthodontic treatment.

Understanding the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist is essential when considering your oral health needs. While both professionals are vital to maintaining a healthy smile, they each play distinct roles. If you’re based in Hoboken or Jersey City and are considering orthodontic treatment, contact us today to schedule a consultation.

We’re dedicated to providing the highest quality orthodontic care to our community, ensuring that you receive the specialized treatment you need for a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles.