Hey there! Have you ever wondered what kind of dentist do braces? Getting braces can be a big decision, and knowing who you’ll be working with is important to get the best results possible. But with many different types of dentists, figuring out who fits you best can be tough.
Don’t worry, though; we’ve got you covered. In this blog post, we will explore the world of dentistry and help you figure out exactly what kind of dentist does braces. We’ll dive into the different types of dentists offering orthodontic treatment, what they do, and what you can expect from each.
Whether you’re considering getting braces for the first time or looking to switch dentists, this post will give you all the information you need to make an informed decision. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into dentistry together!
Who Does the Braces Dentist or Orthodontist?
Both dentists and orthodontists can provide braces treatment, but orthodontists are specialists who focus exclusively on correcting issues with the alignment of teeth and jaws. While dentists and orthodontists have a background in dentistry, orthodontists have additional training and education in orthodontics.
Dentists may provide orthodontic care as part of their general practice but may not have the same expertise and experience as orthodontists. They may also refer patients to orthodontists for more complex cases.
Orthodontists, on the other hand, are specialists who have completed an additional 2-3 years of education and training in orthodontics after dental school. This additional training provides orthodontists with a more in-depth knowledge of tooth movement and jaw alignment, allowing them to address more complex orthodontic issues.
Dentists and orthodontists can provide braces treatment, but an orthodontist may be better if you have more complex orthodontic issues. It’s always a good idea to consult a dentist and an orthodontist to determine the best fit for your needs.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who diagnoses, prevents, and treats dental and facial irregularities. They work to correct tooth and jaw alignment issues, bite problems, and other orthodontic issues. Here are some of the things that an orthodontist does:
- Diagnosis: Orthodontists use various tools and techniques to diagnose orthodontic issues, including x-rays, photographs, and dental impressions. They use these diagnostic tools to create a treatment plan tailored to patients’ needs.
- Treatment planning: Orthodontists develop a customized treatment plan for each patient, considering their orthodontic issues, age, and overall dental health. Treatment options may include traditional metal braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic devices.
- Braces: Orthodontists apply braces to a patient’s teeth to move them into the correct position. Braces are made up of brackets that are attached to the teeth and wires that connect the brackets. Over time, the orthodontist adjusts the wires to move the teeth into the correct position gradually. But is an orthodontist just for braces? No, orthodontists offer a range of treatments beyond just braces.
- Clear aligners: Orthodontists may offer clear aligners as an alternative to traditional braces. Clear aligners are removable trays that are custom-made to fit over the teeth. They gradually move the teeth into the correct position over time.
- Retainers: After the braces or clear aligners have worked, orthodontists may provide patients with retainers to help keep the teeth in their new position. Retainers are custom-made to fit the patient’s teeth and are worn for a period after treatment.
In addition to these services, orthodontists provide ongoing care and monitoring to ensure that the patient’s teeth remain in the correct position over time. They work closely with patients to ensure they have a healthy and beautiful smile they can be proud of. For more information on the role and responsibilities of orthodontists, you may want to explore resources from authoritative websites such as the American Association of Orthodontists, American Dental Association, or the National Institutes of Health.”
Orthodontist vs Dentist: What Kind of Dentist Does Braces?
While dentists and orthodontists can provide braces treatment, orthodontists are specialists who have received additional education and training in orthodontics beyond dental school. They have a more in-depth knowledge of tooth movement and jaw alignment and are better equipped to handle complex orthodontic issues.
For this reason, if you have more complex orthodontic issues, it’s generally recommended that you seek treatment from an orthodontist. Orthodontists have the experience and expertise needed to develop a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs, and they have a wide range of orthodontic options.
On the other hand, if you have mild to moderate orthodontic issues, a general dentist may be able to provide effective treatment. General dentists can provide traditional braces, clear aligners, and other orthodontic options, and they may be a good choice for patients who don’t have complex orthodontic issues.
In summary, an orthodontist is generally the better choice for braces treatment if you have more complex orthodontic issues. However, a general dentist can effectively treat mild to moderate orthodontic issues. It’s always a good idea to consult a dentist and an orthodontist to determine the best fit for your needs.
Dentist Who offers Orthodontic Treatment
Three main types of dentists offer orthodontic treatment: general dentists, pediatric dentists, and orthodontists.
- General Dentists: General dentists are the most common type of dentist and provide a wide range of dental services, including orthodontic treatment. They can provide braces to patients of all ages and may be a good choice for patients with mild to moderate orthodontic issues. However, a referral to an orthodontist may be necessary for more complex orthodontic issues.
- Pediatric Dentists: Pediatric dentists specialize in treating children and can offer orthodontic treatment to children as young as seven. They are trained to deal with the unique needs of children, and they may use various orthodontic options to correct tooth and jaw alignment issues.
- Orthodontists: Orthodontists focus exclusively on correcting tooth and jaw alignment issues. They have received additional education and training beyond dental school, specifically in orthodontics. Orthodontists can provide various orthodontic options, from traditional metal braces to clear aligners.
It’s important to note that while all three types of dentists provide orthodontic care, orthodontists are the most specialized in this area and are often the preferred choice for more complex orthodontic cases. Ultimately, the type of dentist you choose for orthodontic treatment will depend on your needs and the severity of your orthodontic issues. It’s always a good idea to consult a dentist and an orthodontist to determine the best fit for you.
Orthodontic Treatment When Should I See An Orthodontist?
Some several signs and symptoms may indicate the need for orthodontic treatment, and you should consider seeing a dentist who straightens teeth if you experience any of the following:
- Crowded or Crooked Teeth: If you have teeth that are crowded, twisted, or overlapping, it may be a sign that your teeth are not properly aligned.
- Overbite or Underbite: If your upper or lower front teeth protrude excessively over or under each other, it can lead to an overbite or underbite. These issues can lead to difficulty biting or chewing and cause jaw pain or discomfort.
- Crossbite: When the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth, it is called a crossbite. This can cause wear on the teeth and may lead to jaw pain or discomfort.
- Open Bite: If you have an open bite, there is a space between your upper and lower teeth when you bite down. This can make it difficult to eat and speak properly.
- Difficulty Chewing or Speaking: If you experience difficulty chewing or speaking, it may be a sign of misaligned teeth or jaws.
- Mouth Breathing: If you habitually breathe through your mouth instead of your nose, it can lead to oral health problems, including misaligned teeth and jaws.
- Thumb Sucking: If you or your child frequently sucks their thumb or fingers, it can lead to misaligned teeth or jaws.
- Early or Late Loss of Baby Teeth: If baby teeth are lost too early or too late, it can impact the development of permanent teeth and lead to misalignment.
If you experience these signs or symptoms, scheduling a consultation with an orthodontist is a good idea. An orthodontist can assess your specific orthodontic needs and recommend the appropriate treatment to correct any issues and help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
How Can I Locate a Specialist Orthodontist Near Me?
There are several ways you can locate an orthodontist near you. Here are a few options:
- Ask your dentist: Your regular dentist may be able to recommend an orthodontist in your area.
- Search online: You can search for orthodontists in your area by using online search engines or directories, such as the American Association of Orthodontists’ “Find an Orthodontist” tool, “dentist that does braces near me” or “dentist that does braces with Medicaid”.
- Check with professional organizations: The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) and other dental professional organizations maintain directories of orthodontists. You can check their websites for a list of orthodontists in your area.
- Ask for recommendations from friends or family: You can also ask those who have received orthodontic treatment for recommendations.
- Consult with your insurance provider: If you have dental insurance, your insurance provider may have a list of orthodontists in your network.
Once you have a list of potential orthodontists, it’s important to research their qualifications, experience, and reviews from previous patients. You can also schedule a consultation to meet with the orthodontist and understand their approach to orthodontic treatment. This will help you choose an orthodontist who can provide you with the best possible care and help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
Dentist vs Orthodontist Salary
The salary of a dentist or orthodontist can vary based on several factors, including location, years of experience, and level of education. However, orthodontists generally earn a higher salary than general dentists due to their specialized training and focus on orthodontic treatment.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2020, the median annual salary for general dentists was $155,600, while the median annual salary for orthodontists was $228,780. However, it’s important to note that these figures are only median salaries and do not represent the entire range of salaries for each profession.
It’s also worth noting that the type of practice can also affect salary. For example, a dentist or orthodontist who owns their practice may earn more than someone who works for a larger organization. Additionally, salaries can vary by region, with dentists and orthodontists earning higher salaries than others in certain areas.
Overall, while orthodontists tend to earn a higher salary than general dentists, it’s important to remember that salary is just one factor to consider when choosing a career. Both dentistry and orthodontics can be rewarding and fulfilling careers that offer the opportunity to help people maintain good oral health and achieve a beautiful smile.
About Us:
As experts in Dental Contract Review, we proudly serve dental professionals. We understand healthcare’s intricacies and offer comprehensive contract reviews to ensure clarity, fairness, and career benefit. To learn more or schedule a review, contact us today.
