Orthodontist vs dentist - what’s the difference?

Specialist Orthodontists and dentists are both very important for the health of your smile - but they have completely different jobs. So how do you know who to visit? Let’s break down the differences between these two dental professions.

What sets a Specialist Orthodontist apart from other dentists?

All Specialist Orthodontists once started out as general dentists. Then, they undertook an additional 3 years of postgraduate study to learn how to straighten smiles. This makes them uniquely qualified to create customised treatment plans to help you achieve your smile goals.

A general dentist is who you visit for regular cleanings, fillings, and light cosmetic procedures. While a dentist may offer cheap braces or aligners at their practice, their inexpertise in the field of orthodontics could result in faulty treatment - costing your health and money down the line.

What sets a Specialist Orthodontist apart from other dentists

The roles of an orthodontist vs dentist

We’ve created this chart to help you better understand the unique jobs of a Specialist Orthodontist and a general dentist:

specialists in orthodontics

	Specialist Orthodontist	Dentist
Qualifications & Memberships
Bachelor of Dental Surgery (5 years)
Master of Orthodontics (3 years)
Member of Professional Orthodontic Bodies
Treatments & Services
6-monthly cleanings
Fillings
Extractions
General advice on oral health
Treatment with braces and aligners		Some dentists may provide this, but they are not specialists in orthodontics
Volume of cases treated	Orthodontist specialise exclusively in this field and treat a higher volume of patients and therefore will have more experience, expertise and confidence in over a general dentist
Able to claim different amounts from health fund
Experience & training
Trained to fix bite issues
Specially trained in tooth movement
Can create custom treatment based on your overall facial profile
Uses the latest in orthodontic technology
Attends ongoing orthodontic education
Is a member of The Invisible Orthodontist (TIO) Network

Ready to fall in love with your smile?

Whether it’s crooked front teeth or a complex crossbite, the orthodontic specialists at The Ortho Practice have the expertise to help you achieve a stunning new smile. Book your consultation with our Central Coast orthodontic team to get started.

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