What’s the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?

All orthodontists are dentists. All dentists are NOT orthodontists.

Dentists focus on the teeth and tissues in your mouth. Dentists diagnose, treats, and manages your overall oral health care needs, including gum care, root canals, fillings, crowns, veneers, bridges, and preventive education.

Orthodontists are licensed dentists who have completed an orthodontic residency program.  Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry. An orthodontist is an expert in the diagnosing, preventing and treating dental and facial irregularities, or “malocclusion,” which means “bad bite.” Orthodontists are skilled in treatments that will bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment.

Orthodontics is not only for cosmetic purposes, but also treats and prevents physical health problems related to facial, jaw and tooth misalignment. Orthodontics can prevent bone destruction, chewing and digestive problems as well as headaches, speech impairments, tooth loss and chipped teeth due to a bad bite.

It's important to know the difference so you are getting the right treatment for your smile!