Understanding the Difference Between a Dentist and Orthodontist

by | Sep 5, 2022 | Dental Care

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An orthodontist in Irving, TX, and a dentist shares many similarities. Their primary focus is the health and beauty of their patient’s smiles. A dentist is focused on general, broad oral health, including broken teeth, cavities, and gum disease. An orthodontist in Irving, TX, continues their training for three more years at a university to focus on tooth and jaw alignment.

An orthodontist only does orthodontics. For this reason, they are uniquely qualified to provide effective, comprehensive treatment options to help their patients straighten their teeth. A dentist and orthodontist will often work together to provide the best dental healthcare to the same patients.

A dentist has a general dental degree. You can compare a general dentist to a general practitioner. Like your family doctor, they are focused on your overall dental health. Dentists do not learn in university how to put on braces, use clear aligners, treat severe TMJ, etc. For these treatments, they will refer patients to an orthodontist.

An orthodontist has a dental degree, and then they get three years of specialized training where they focus on facial growth and dental development. An orthodontist will help with traditional braces, clear aligners, and retainers.

Both orthodontists and dentists work together to keep your teeth healthy and looking their best.

Visit RioDentalGroup.com to learn more about the benefits of working with an orthodontist and see how Rio Dental & Orthodontics is providing comprehensive dental care for parents and children using state-of-the-art equipment in a comfortable environment.

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