What’s the Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist?

One of the most common questions people have is whether they should go to a dentist or an orthodontist when they need treatment. The Dentistry Collective is a comprehensive dental practice that takes care of all dental concerns under one roof. 

What do Orthodontists Do? 

Orthodontists focus on correcting irregularities in bite alignment or problems with teeth that are crooked. Orthodontists use braces, retainers, and other orthodontic treatments to correct an improper bite or help teeth and jaws line up properly. An orthodontist is a dental specialist who specializes in fixing teeth alignment, dental problems like crowding and correcting bite problems. Their treatment can include braces and other orthodontic appliances. So, if you’re looking for a dentist who treats these kinds of issues, it’s best to ask for an orthodontist.

What do Dentists do? 

Dentists are trained to provide comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages. This includes everything from cleaning teeth and gums and pulling tooth decay to performing surgery when appropriate. Dentistry professionals also take an active role in preventing dental disease and providing patients with the knowledge they need to care for their teeth daily.

What are the Similarities Between Orthodontists and Dentists? 

Dentists and orthodontists are both highly trained in their fields. Both specialists provide comprehensive care for their patients, including diagnosing conditions, performing treatments, and helping patients maintain their oral health daily.

What is the Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist? 

It really boils down to what type of services you need. While both types of specialists provide comprehensive dental care, orthodontists specialize in correcting bite alignment problems while dentists are trained to fill many conditions.

An orthodontist is the right choice for patients who need treatment for bite alignment or tooth alignment problems. A patient who needs an extraction, a crown, or gum disease treatment will likely visit a dentist instead. Training and certification are also important to consider since only dentists can perform surgery as part of their dental care practice.

How do I know which type of Specialist to Use? 

If you’ve been provided two or more options for the type of care you need, start with asking your dentist or medical doctor who they would recommend. For example, you can book an appointment to discuss scaling services or dental implants at boynton beach to find out which specialist can help you with that. Orthodontists are trained to detect problems and correct improper bite alignment. They listen to patients’ concerns and help them understand what’s going on with their teeth and jaws. They also provide patients with guidance on how they can take care of their teeth at home, such as brushing twice as long as they think they need to, flossing, and following a healthy diet.

How Often do I need to see my Orthodontist? 

Orthodontists are trained to detect and correct improper bite alignment. After finding the problem, they’ll work with patients regularly to maintain the proper alignment because small changes can cause significant problems. Patients may visit their orthodontist for an exam from time to time as part of their oral health care routine, depending on their treatment plan.

Does insurance cover Orthodontist Care?

 Some orthodontist services are covered under dental insurance plans. However, some patients might be required to pay for some of the treatment if the insurance provider doesn’t cover the service. If you plan to use your insurance to pay for orthodontic services, make sure you know what the plan covers beforehand. Your orthodontist will provide you with the information you need to know to file your insurance claim.

If your insurance doesn’t cover orthodontic services, it’s still possible to get treatment thanks to financing options and dental loans. Financing options include CareCredit, which offers to finance for different types of procedures, and 10-10 dental loans, which offer zero interest rate loans for 18 or 21 months.

What is the difference between a fixed vs. a Removable Orthodontic retainer? 

Both types allow patients to move and normally eat while providing proper bite alignment. While removable retainers can be taken out when desired, fixed retainers are more permanent. Some patients choose to use a removable retainer as they grow older to maintain good teeth and bite alignment.

 Retainers are removable appliances that are placed in the back teeth to correct bite alignment. Like braces, they can be used for any number of years, depending on your treatment plan with your orthodontist. Retainers work because they help maintain proper bite alignment by holding a tooth or teeth in place.

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