What’s The Difference Between A Dentist And An Orthodontist?

While the distinction between a dentist and an orthodontist in Idaho may seem self explanatory, there are actually significant differences that some people don’t recognize.

We’re here to help clarify specifically what each can do for you, and what you can expect from us as your trusted orthodontist in Soda Springs, Blackfoot, and Pocatello, Idaho.

Dental Vs. Orthodontic Care

Both dentists and orthodontists specialize in oral healthcare. However, understanding their roles matters when it comes to determining which is best for you to see for your needs.

A key difference is that dentists diagnose and treat various teeth, gum, tongue and mouth conditions. While orthodontists also receive similar training, they’re also trained to diagnose and treat jaw and teeth misalignments.

On a daily basis, most dentists treat oral conditions, clean teeth, and provide additional care like X-rays, teeth extraction, fillings for cavities, repair damaged teeth, treat gum disease, whiten teeth, install veneers and crowns, and perform oral surgery.

Your orthodontist in Soda Springs, Idaho can also treat oral care, but they mainly focus on aligning your teeth and jaw. Orthodontists can also perform surgeries to straighten teeth, examine and treat issues with the facial development of children, including their bite. When necessary, orthodontists can also install straightening devices like braces, headgear, or palatal expanders.

So when should you see a dentist or an orthodontist in Blackfoot, Idaho? One helpful rule of thumb is to think of your dentist like a general practitioner for oral health, and your orthodontist as a specialist.

Most oral issues related to the health of your teeth and gums can be treated by a dentist. But if you have any conditions related to your jaw, teeth alignment, or palette, a visit to an orthodontist may be more beneficial.

Also, it’s recommended that children see an orthodontist before age 7 to see if their teeth, jaw, and palette are developing correctly.
If it’s time for you or your child to visit an orthodontist in Pocatello, Idaho, we invite you to book your FREE consultation today!

Related post: Do I Need a Dentist or an Orthodontist? Navigating a Healthy Smile | Understanding the Difference: General Dentists vs. Orthodontists

Related Questions

What is the main difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?
A dentist focuses on overall oral health—things like cleanings, fillings, crowns, and treating gum disease—while an orthodontist specializes in diagnosing and treating jaw and teeth misalignments. Think of a dentist as a general oral health doctor and an orthodontist as a smile alignment specialist.

When should I see an orthodontist instead of my regular dentist?
If your concern is about the health of your teeth or gums (like cavities, pain, or gum issues), a dentist is the best place to start. If you’re dealing with crooked teeth, bite problems, jaw alignment issues, or questions about braces/Invisalign, an orthodontist is the right specialist to see.

Can an orthodontist do the same treatments as a dentist?
Orthodontists receive dental training first, so they understand general oral health, but in practice they mainly focus on aligning teeth and jaws. Most routine care like cleanings, fillings, and regular checkups are still best handled by your general dentist.

At what age should my child first see an orthodontist in Idaho?
It’s recommended that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by around age 7. At this age, an orthodontist can check how the teeth, jaw, and palate are developing and spot any early issues that may benefit from monitoring or early treatment.