It remains a dilemma for many as to what is the real difference between an orthodontist and a regular dentist. After all, they have both studied dentistry at the graduate level, and perhaps, at post graduate level too. So what is it that really sets them apart? Also, why should you visit an orthodontist in the first place? And, will it be of any use to you?
There are several important differences between an orthodontist and a regular dentist:
- Field of Specialization – The very first thing that sets the two apart is their specialization. While a regular dentist can start working after completing his degree in dentistry and receiving a certification, an orthodontist must pursue a specialization course, which can be a few years long, and only then work as a registered orthodontist. They continue their education after graduating from a recognized dental college and learn all that there is to know about orthodontics: tooth movement, facial development, teeth straightening, jaw alignment, etc.
- Training – The second difference is in the training that these doctors receive. An orthodontist receives training under professional, practicing and experienced orthodontists. On the other hand, a regular dentist gets trained primarily in oral health care treatments and gets lesser exposure in dental procedures which involve cosmetic treatments.
- Experience – The third major difference between an orthodontist and a regular dentist is that the former one performs only a handful or dental procedures that involve teeth straightening or jaw alignment and sees more patients looking for oral care. In stark contrast to this, an orthodontist sees hundreds of patients looking for jaw re-alignment, teeth straightening and other related procedures annually.
- Certifications and Affiliation – Orthodontists are usually certified by agencies like AAO (American Association of Orthodontists), which is an indication that their level of education is suitable for performing even complicated orthodontic procedures. However, a regular dentist is affiliated with other dental organizations and the competence of such a dentist in performing complicated orthodontic procedures can be doubtful.
Orthodontist's job is to help you get a smile that you have always dreamt of, straighten your teeth and properly align your jaw, regardless of what your age might be. With new innovations in the field of cosmetic dentistry and teeth straightening, you can get a picture perfect set of teeth in a few months to a few years. It is always advisable to start treatment at the earliest since any delay in seeking help from an orthodontist will only worsen the case and increase the time required for completion of the treatment.
Dental braces are quite commonly used to treat malocclusion, crooked or crowded teeth. However, it is only a myth now that they look awful and take years to set your teeth right. In fact, dental braces can be nearly invisible if made from clear plastic and can even be placed on the back side (lingual) side of your teeth so as to keep them hidden.