When it comes to general, restorative, or cosmetic dentistry services, different professionals specialize in target areas within the dentistry field. As such, there is a distinct difference in what each professional offers based on experience, training, and certification. For instance, what is the difference between an orthodontist vs dentist?
A client may use each of these terms or professional interchangeably. However, general or cosmetic dentistry and orthodontics are not the same. Furthermore, you may not visit the same professional for each service. In other words, an orthodontist may be able to offer general dentistry, but a general dentist in texas may not offer orthodontics. Let’s take a closer look at an orthodontist vs dentist so that you can identify the specifics of each.
Orthodontist vs Dentist: What Does Each Do?
At their core, both an orthodontist and dentist help patients improve the look and function of their teeth. How does each differ?
Dentist
Dentistry is a broad medical field in which specialists enhance, repair, or improve the teeth, jaw, gum, and surrounding nerve tissue. A dentist may offer general dentistry services, restorative dentistry, or cosmetic dentistry. This is assuming that the practitioner has training and certification with each type of service they provide. A dentist in texas may offer services such as:
- Teeth whitening
- Dental veneers
- Dental bridges
- Dental crowns
- Dental Fillings
- Teeth cleaning
A dentist offers a wide range of services all within the same clinic. They perform most services that are designed to preserve and enhance teeth. For this reason, local dentistry can be valuable for an individual and family throughout various stages of their lives.
Orthodontist
Orthodontists have the training and certification to perform many of the same services that a dentist does. However, their main specialization is in correcting alignment issues with the teeth, gums, or jaws. A patient who has problems with crooked teeth, an underbite, or overbite, may seek an Orthodontist in Conroe, TX.
Orthodontists provide services such as:
- Metal Braces
- Ceramic Braces
- Retainers
- Invisalign braces
- Mouth guards
While anyone can see an orthodontist, they are especially valuable during the adolescent stage of growth when the teeth and jaws are developing. A teenager who may need to have their teeth straightened can visit their local orthodontist and get a set of braces or a retainer to correct the problem. Orthodontists can fix oral issues that make a difference in a person’s teeth or jaws for life.
Orthodontist vs Dentist: Who Should You See?
In some cases, there may be an overlap in which specialist you should see. For instance, you may go to your dentist for an annual checkup or teeth cleaning only to discover that you have problems with your teeth or jaw. Your dentist may refer you to an orthodontist to take care of the problem. Your dentist and orthodontist will work together to prepare you or your child for your braces.
If you visit your orthodontist first, you may discover that you do not need braces. Instead, your issue may require a dental crown, fillings, or veneers. As such, your orthodontist may recommend a good dentist. Specialists work together all of the time to provide you with the best dental solutions and services that solve your issue.
Furthermore, you may only see your orthodontist during checkups or during the duration of your braces. On the other hand, you may visit your dentist for as long as you are alive.
Visit Your Local Dentist or Orthodontist in Conroe, TX
Whether you need an orthodontist vs dentist, you can find a reputable cosmetic dentist in Conroe, TX. Schedule a dental exam today to discover your options.