Posted on 11/21/2024

featured image for a blog about Understanding the Difference Between a Dentist and an OrthodontistIf you're searching for an orthodontist in the Dayton area, you might wonder, "What exactly is the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?" As a top orthodontist in Beavercreek and Englewood, I'm here to help clarify this for you!

The Role of a Dentist

Dentists are your primary oral health care providers. They focus on maintaining the overall health of your teeth, gums, and mouth. Regular visits to your dentist involve exams, cleanings, and treatments for issues like cavities or broken teeth.

Dentists are essential for ensuring that your teeth stay healthy, but their scope of work is generalized and less in-depth for each area of dentistry rather than specialized.

  • Regular check-ups and cleanings
  • Fillings, crowns, bridges
  • Full and partial dentures
  • Teeth whitening

The Role of an Orthodontist

An orthodontist is a dentist who has undergone 3 additional years beyond general dentistry for specialized training in diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities. If you or your child has issues like misaligned teeth, bite discrepancies, or jaw problems, an orthodontist is the specialist you need.

As an orthodontist in Dayton (and surrounding areas like Beavercreek and Englewood), my advanced education and training allows me to properly diagnose, treatment plan, and treat the multitude of dental and jaw mal-alignments utilizing braces and Invisalign. In certain cases of impacted teeth or severe jaw mal-alignment, I work in tandem with an oral surgeon to provide comprehensive care for the patient.

The precise nature of orthodontic treatment requires a deep understanding of the complex movements of teeth and the entire bony facial complex; something that goes beyond the scope of general dentistry.

  • Expertise:
    Orthodontists have undergone 3 additional years of training and education to become experts in teeth and jaw alignment.
  • Customized Treatment:
    We create personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and goals.
  • Advanced Technology:
    Our office utilizes state-of-the-art technology, including 3D imaging and digitized scanning.

If you're considering braces or Invisalign, it is so important to see a trained and certified specialist. As a top orthodontist in Beavercreek and Englewood, I have been able to provide the highest quality of orthodontic care for our patients' individualized treatment needs!

Making the Right Choice for Your Smile

Choosing between a dentist and an orthodontist comes down to the type of care you need.

For regular check-ups, cleanings, and minor dental issues, your dentist is the go-to expert. However, for complex treatments like braces or Invisalign, visiting an orthodontist ensures you're in the hands of a specialist who can provide the best results.

At our offices in Beavercreek and Englewood, we pride ourselves on being compassionate leaders in orthodontic care. If you're ready to explore your options for a straighter, healthier smile, contact our office today to schedule a complimentary consultation. We look forward to helping you achieve the smile you deserve!