There are eight dental specialties recognized by American Dental Association, and one of them is Orthodontics.
Orthodontist – is a dentist specialized in orthodontics, the area of dentistry which studies in depth diagnostics and treatment of malocclusion (or simply bite correction) and jaw problems, the means of repositioning the teeth and facial bones to restore aesthetic appearance and normal functions, such as chewing, biting, etc.
There are many situations when, even though a general dentist can perform a procedure, it is better to be treated by a specialist. Certain dental treatments require the skills and expertise that only orthodontists can offer.
Who should treat orthodontic problems?
Although general and pediatric dentists usually have some training in orthodontics, they will refer you or your child to an orthodontist if a malocclusion or other discovered problems are beyond his / her scope of orthodontic training and better off being treated by a specialist. There are times when an orthodontic treatment requires cooperation of several specialists, such your general dentist, an orthodontist, an oral surgeon, and others. Either way you should not diagnose yourself.