The easiest way to understand the difference is this: all orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists.
Education and Training
After earning a bachelor’s degree, both dentists and orthodontists attend dental school, where they complete a four-year dental program and earn their dental degree. Once dental school is complete, a general dentist can begin practicing and providing a wide range of dental services, including cleanings, fillings, crowns, exams, and preventive care.
Orthodontists continue their education with an additional two to three years of specialized residency training in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. This advanced training focuses specifically on tooth movement, jaw growth, bite correction, facial development, and creating healthy, functional smiles.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
Orthodontic treatment involves much more than simply straightening teeth. Orthodontists are specially trained to diagnose and treat issues related to tooth alignment, jaw position, and bite function.
During their residency, orthodontists receive extensive training in how braces, clear aligners, wires, brackets, appliances, and treatment techniques work together to move teeth safely and effectively over time.
Every smile is unique, which means orthodontic treatment requires careful planning, monitoring, and adjustments throughout the process. Orthodontists are trained to anticipate how teeth will respond to movement and make changes as needed to help patients achieve the best possible result.
What About Invisalign and Clear Aligners?
Many general dentists offer Invisalign and other clear aligner treatments. While clear aligners can be an effective option for some patients, it is important to understand that orthodontists have additional training and experience in diagnosing complex bite issues and managing tooth movement.
Because orthodontists focus exclusively on straightening teeth and correcting bites, they are often better equipped to handle more advanced orthodontic cases. This can be especially important if treatment does not progress as expected or if a patient has crowding, spacing, overbite, underbite, crossbite, or other alignment concerns.
If you are considering Invisalign, braces, or another orthodontic treatment option, scheduling a consultation with an orthodontist can help ensure your smile goals are achievable and your treatment plan is designed around your unique needs. You can also learn more about the difference between treatment options by reviewing our guide on braces vs. Invisalign.
Dentists and Orthodontists Work Together
Dentists and orthodontists are not competitors. They are partners in helping you maintain a healthy, confident smile.
Your general dentist plays an important role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy through routine cleanings, dental exams, X-rays, fillings, and preventive care. Orthodontists work alongside dentists to improve the alignment of your teeth and bite while supporting your overall oral health.
In fact, most orthodontists will not begin treatment if a patient has untreated cavities, gum disease, or has not had a recent dental checkup. Before starting braces or clear aligners, your orthodontist wants to make sure your teeth and gums are healthy enough for successful treatment.
Should You See a Dentist or an Orthodontist?
If you are due for a cleaning, have a toothache, need a filling, or have concerns about your general dental health, your dentist is the right place to start.
If you are concerned about crooked teeth, crowded teeth, spacing, jaw alignment, or bite problems, an orthodontic consultation may be the next step. An orthodontist can evaluate your smile, explain your treatment options, and help determine whether braces, Invisalign, or another orthodontic solution is right for you.
For new patients, our patient resources page is a helpful place to learn more about what to expect during your first visit.
Together, dentists and orthodontists help patients achieve two important goals: maintaining healthy teeth and creating confident, beautiful smiles that last a lifetime.
Schedule a Free Orthodontic Consultation
If you are ready to learn more about braces, Invisalign, clear aligners, or orthodontic treatment, our team would be happy to help.
To schedule a free orthodontic consultation, please contact one of our five orthodontic office locations in New York City, Bronx, NY, Yonkers, NY, White Plains, NY, or Waterbury, CT at 914.352.4780, or submit a free consultation request form through our website.
You can also visit our locations page to find the iSmile Orthodontics office that is most convenient for you.
