Why You Should See an Orthodontist for Orthodontic Care Instead of a Dentist
When it comes to straightening teeth and improving your smile, you may wonder whether you should see a dentist or an orthodontist for treatment. Many general dentists offer orthodontic solutions like Invisalign or braces, but does that mean they’re the best choice for your orthodontic care? The short answer is no. While dentists play a crucial role in maintaining your oral health, orthodontists are specialists who receive additional training to ensure the best possible outcomes for straightening teeth and correcting bite issues.
At Rise + Smile Orthodontics, Dr. Mathue Faulkner, DDS, MS, is dedicated to providing expert orthodontic care with a focus on personalized treatment plans designed for long-term success. Below, we’ll explore why choosing an orthodontist over a general dentist for your braces or Invisalign treatment is the smartest decision for your smile.
Specialized Training and Expertise
While both dentists and orthodontists start with the same foundational education, orthodontists undergo several additional years of specialized training that specifically focuses on diagnosing and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws.
Education and Training
- Dentists: After completing a four-year undergraduate degree, dentists attend four years of dental school, earning either a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. They focus on general oral health, including cleanings, fillings, root canals, and gum disease treatment.
- Orthodontists: After completing dental school, orthodontists undergo an additional 2-3 years of intensive residency training focused solely on orthodontics. This advanced education teaches them how to move teeth efficiently, correct bite issues, and create balanced facial profiles using braces, Invisalign, and other orthodontic appliances.
This extra training makes orthodontists the true experts in diagnosing and treating misalignments, ensuring the best possible outcome for your smile. (Source: AAO)
Advanced Treatment Options
Orthodontists are equipped to handle everything from simple alignment issues to complex bite corrections. While a general dentist may be able to offer Invisalign, they lack the same depth of experience in managing more challenging orthodontic cases. In fact, orthodontists are often able to identify significant issues that may arise during treatment even though the case seems to be an simple case at first blush. Going to an orthodontist can end up saving treatment time and added expenses in the event that treatment isn’t as straight forward as it may first seem.
Additionally, orthodontists simply have more experience and treatment options should difficulty arise during treatment.
Braces vs. Invisalign
Both braces and Invisalign can straighten teeth, but an orthodontist has the expertise to determine which option is best for your unique case.
- Braces: Traditional metal or ceramic braces are a time-tested solution for correcting moderate to severe misalignment issues, bite problems, and jaw discrepancies. Orthodontists use precise adjustments to guide teeth into their ideal positions over time.
- Invisalign: This clear aligner system offers a discreet way to straighten teeth, but it’s not ideal for every case. An orthodontist can accurately assess whether Invisalign will work for your needs or if another treatment might be more effective. (Source: Invisalign)
Unlike general dentists who may only receive a short certification course in Invisalign, orthodontists have years of hands-on experience using aligners and braces to correct a wide range of orthodontic issues.
More importantly, orthodontists completely understand the biomechanics involved with Invisalign. They are able to customize the plan to a degree that a dentist is simply unable to do unless they’ve spent additional years of training in orthodontics after graduating dental school. Many dentists don’t customize their Invisalign treatment plans at all, and simply accept the approach that Invisalign suggests.
Better Long-Term Results and Stability
The goal of orthodontic treatment isn’t just to achieve a straight smile—it’s to create a healthy, functional bite that lasts a lifetime. Because orthodontists are trained to understand jaw movement, facial symmetry, and the long-term effects of shifting teeth, they can prevent complications that might arise from improper treatment.
Potential Issues with General Dentist Orthodontic Care
- Improper tooth movement leading to bite issues
- Relapse due to lack of a comprehensive treatment plan
- Lack of expertise in jaw alignment and facial growth patterns
Seeing an orthodontist ensures that your treatment plan is designed for stability, reducing the risk of needing future corrective procedures.
The Benefits of Seeing an Orthodontist as an Adult
Many adults assume that orthodontic care is only for teenagers, but in reality, adult orthodontic treatment is more popular than ever. Whether you missed out on braces as a child or your teeth have shifted over time, an orthodontist can help you achieve a confident, healthy smile at any age.
Why Adult Orthodontic Treatment Matters
- Health Benefits: Straighter teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Jaw Pain Relief: Misaligned bites can cause TMJ pain, headaches, and excessive tooth wear.
- Confidence Boost: A straight smile can enhance your self-esteem and overall quality of life.
With modern options like Invisalign and clear braces, orthodontic treatment has never been more convenient or discreet. (Source: Healthline)
Choose an Orthodontist for the Best Orthodontic Care
While your general dentist is an essential part of your oral health routine, they simply don’t have the same level of expertise as an orthodontist when it comes to straightening teeth and correcting bites. Whether you’re considering braces or Invisalign, trusting an orthodontic specialist like Dr. Mathue Faulkner at Rise + Smile Orthodontics ensures that you receive the highest quality care and the best possible results.
If you’re ready to start your journey to a healthier, more beautiful smile, schedule a consultation with us today. Your smile deserves the best—and the best comes from an orthodontist.
