Differences Between Orthodontist vs. Dentist

It requires no genius to know that clean teeth lead to good health. But one must also know that oral health issues manifest themselves differently and at different periods. Seeking medical attention becomes necessary. Dentists and orthodontists are dental experts who take up the job. But whom to consult for a specific concern? Los Angeles orthodontics clinics provide the advanced services of both. Let’s understand their key difference and whom to approach for specific dental concerns:

Definition Of Both

The dentist and orthodontist are interchangeably used terms. Both are dental experts but perform distinct duties. While their basic education is the same, the orthodontist is an expert at handling issues with the jaw bone. His area of specialization can be Doctor of Dental Surgery or a Doctor or Dental Medicine. Here’s the definition of both:

Dentist

The job at hand for a dentist is to take care of the oral health. His key task is to diagnose and treat conditions of the mouth. These relate to the gums, teeth, and tongue. Academically, they graduate from the school of dentistry. There they are trained and certified to take up a range of dental services like fill cavities, perform extraction, treat gum disease, among others.

Orthodontist

A dentist studies further to become an orthodontist. After completing his graduation, he enrolls himself for further studies where he is technically trained in procedures that correct bite issues. Thus, they provide treatment for teeth that are misaligned and misshapen. Top-rated centers for orthodontics West Hollywood provide services that treat dental conditions surfacing from incorrect positioning of the teeth and problems of the jaw. 

Comparison Between Dentist And Orthodontist 

Are you still confused about the primary role and responsibilities of the two dental experts? Here’s a comparison list for the services and tasks you can expect them to perform:

Duties Of A Dentist 

A dentist’s responsibilities include the following:

• Perform regular check-ups and screen the oral cavity for any signs of infection and disease.
• Undertake cleaning procedures to upkeep oral health. 
• Diagnose oral health conditions and suggest appropriate treatment plans. 
• Provide treatment for gum disease and tooth decay
• Undertake basic dental procedures. 
• Perform and study X-rays for a comprehensive understanding of the condition. 
• Coordinating with other specialists like orthodontists and cosmetic dentists to provide effective treatment and patient care
• Monitor the effects of ongoing treatments to ensure proper results
• Refer the patient to a specialist like orthodontist or cosmetic dentist in case required.

What Is The Role Of An Orthodontist?

• To examine, assess and evaluate the abnormalities in the jaw and teeth
• Specific use of diagnostic tools like X-rays and teeth molds to understand the extent of deformity
• To create a treatment plan for the particular dental concern
• Assessing the need and subsequent installation of orthodontic appliances. 
• Assess concerns related to patient’s occlusion and jaw alignment

In addition to the services provided by a dentist, an orthodontist is certified to take up additional jobs and responsibilities listed above.

Dentist And Orthodontist – Job Checklist

After having an awareness about the roles and duties of the dentists and orthodontists, it is easier to ascertain whom to visit. Listed below are individual requirements that they address.  

Here are a few common dental concerns that a dentist can take up effectively: 

• Regular dental check-ups scheduled every six months.
• Dental cleaning and removal of plaque
• Discomfort due to tooth decay
• Signs of gum disease and oral infection
• Extraction of tooth
• Filling up a dental cavity
• Check the need for a root canal treatment and perform

On the other hand, the orthodontist is for more complex jobs. The areas of treatment taken up at orthodontics Los Angeles clinic include:

• Crooked or misaligned teeth that give an unappealing appearance
• Use palatal expander or headgear to correct bite issues that can be an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite
• The teeth are too crowded or have uneven gaps and spacing 
• Pain in the jaw due to alignment problem
• Using orthodontic appliances like braces, aligners to correct misalignment.

Can Both Collaborate?

Yes, dentists and orthodontists very much work together. This increases their efficiency and improves treatment outcomes. Also, patient care after the procedures is taken care of in an effective manner. 

In fact, it is good to choose clinics that offer the comprehensive services of both domains. Thankfully, West Hollywood orthodontics clinics have both specialists on board. This makes it absolutely convenient for the patient as they get quality and specialized care without any problem. This will help the patient get the most appropriate and effective care to improve oral health conditions. 

Final Thoughts

One should not ignore any kind of dental issues. Regular visits to a dentist can help treat an existing issue and also proactively diagnose any impending dental issue. If the dentist is not certified to treat the cause of the condition, he will direct the patient to an orthodontist. The best is to visit clinics that offer the services of both. Personal Dental Office is one such specialized clinic that provides excellent services for dental jobs. Book an appointment to discuss your dental concern and get expert advice and appropriate treatment for every dental issue.