Dentist vs. Orthodontist in Brampton: Who Should You See for Your Dental Care?

While it’s widely known that you should get dental check-ups and cleanings every six months, the necessity of visiting an orthodontist may not be very clear. Dentists and orthodontists are both dental professionals, but their specialties differ. Understanding the difference between their roles is important to ensure you schedule an appointment with the appropriate practitioner.

In this post, Dentistry on Dusk, a leading dental office in Brampton, discusses these two professions in detail to make an informed decision.

Let’s get started.

Dentist vs. Orthodontist: Exploring the Contrast for Better Dental Health

Dentists and orthodontists are both dental professionals, but they have distinct qualifications and areas of expertise.

The Role of a Dentist

Dentists are doctors who specialize in oral health. They receive extensive training and certification in the practice of dentistry, typically earning a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS), Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. Moreover, dentists must be certified by the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) to obtain a license.

Dentists offer a wide array of services focused on maintaining as well as improving dental health. Their areas of practice include:

• Diagnosing and treating cavities, mild gum diseases, and oral hygiene issues.
• Performing dentistry procedures such as fillings, bonding, repairs, extractions, root canals, veneers, and crowns.
• Taking dental X-rays.
• Promoting oral health education and hygiene practices.
• Prescribing medications and treatments related to dental conditions.
• Providing emergency dental services.

When Should You Visit a Dentist?

A dentist is a healthcare professional who serves as a general practitioner for dental concerns.  If you are experiencing any of the following conditions, it is recommended that you consult a dentist:

• Toothache or dental pain
• Tooth decay or cavities
• Gum disease or gum inflammation
• Oral infections or abscesses
• Worn teeth requiring extraction or removal
• Routine dental check-ups and cleanings

Dentists play a crucial role in monitoring and maintaining overall oral health. Whether you require routine cleaning, restorative treatment, or immediate attention for a pressing dental issue, a dentist is the appropriate professional from whom to seek care.

Role of An Orthodontist

An orthodontist is a dental professional who focuses on straightening teeth as well as correcting bite issues. They are skilled in aligning jaws as well as shaping teeth to achieve a beautiful and healthy smile. Orthodontists treat conditions such as gaps between teeth, overcrowded teeth, misaligned jaws, and protruding teeth.

While orthodontists are qualified to diagnose and treat oral health problems, their primary focus is ensuring that your teeth and jaws are properly aligned.

The various treatments they provide are as follows:

• Retainers
• Clear aligners (e.g. Invisalign)
• Traditional braces
• Lingual (behind-the-teeth) braces
• Diagnosis and treatment of malocclusion (misaligned teeth)
• Teeth-straightening surgery
• Lip and cheek bumpers

To become an orthodontist, one must complete a regular dental program and obtain a licence to practice as a dentist. After that, they must pursue an additional three-year postgraduate course specializing in orthodontics.

When Should You See an Orthodontist?

It is generally recommended that you consult your dentist first for any oral health concerns. If necessary, they will refer you to an orthodontist.

For instance, if you experience a toothache, your dentist may discover that the pain is caused by a crooked tooth or a bite problem. In such cases, they will recommend seeing an orthodontist. Orthodontists also treat cosmetic dental issues like protruding teeth, temporomandibular disorders (TMD), overbites, underbites, and gaps between teeth.

More on Orthodontics & Dentistry

Did you know that the specialty of orthodontics was founded by Edward H. Angle? He was a pioneering figure in the field, being the first orthodontist and the first member of the dental profession to limit his practice exclusively to orthodontics.

Understandably, confusion arises between dentists and orthodontists, given that they both offer oral healthcare services. However, it’s important to understand the distinction between these two professions to ensure you receive the appropriate treatment for your specific needs.

While dentists are qualified to diagnose, treat, and prevent dental diseases, orthodontists specialize in the study and treatment of the bite. This includes how the teeth function, align, and position within the jaw, and the sizes and positions of the upper and lower jaws.

It is important to note that dentists and orthodontists offer different dental services, so it’s essential to understand your specific needs before choosing which professional to consult. The ideal solution is to visit a dental office that provides both general dentistry and orthodontic services, ensuring comprehensive care under one roof. At Dentistry on Dusk, we offer a wide range of services, including cosmetic dentistry, pediatric dentistry, and orthodontics in Brampton. Our team of skilled professionals works closely with you to provide treatment plans tailored to your needs, ensuring optimal oral health and a beautiful, confident smile. Contact us today for more information.

This entry was posted in Dentistry on Dusk on May 21, 2024.