What’s the Difference Between an Orthodontist and a General Dentist?

Looking to straighten your teeth and beam with confidence every time you smile? Whether you’re considering braces, Invisalign® or another treatment type for your child, you’ll want to visit an orthodontist for the most comprehensive options and care. While dentists can certainly speak to—and some may even offer—orthodontic services, truly qualified orthodontists set themselves apart in a few important ways.

Additional School
Dentists and orthodontists are both oral health care providers. However, while dentists enter the profession out of dental school, orthodontists spend several more years after dental school completing a second full-time university education focused specifically on tooth movement, aka orthodontics. All orthodontists go to dental school, but dentists don’t typically go to orthodontics school.

Specialized Training
An orthodontist’s second education after dental school consists of much more than traditional coursework. Most of that time is actually spent in an accredited residency program, where the orthodontist-in-training will treat real-life patients under the supervision of professional orthodontists. Before an orthodontist even starts their career or opens their own practice, they’ll have spent two to three academic years in residency.

Orthodontics Certification
Upon successful completion of a residency program, an orthodontist will finally receive their orthodontic specialty certification from the program—but the journey doesn’t end there. Orthodontists must also pass a clinical and written exam to be certified by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO). Very few general dentists—including those who promote and perform orthodontic procedures—have this certification. In all, it takes a decade or more of schooling to obtain.

Can vs. Do
Since there’s no law or limitation against general dentists offering orthodontic treatment, patients might naturally gravitate to their trusted dentists for braces or Invisalign®. But before you do, ask yourself if you’d rather have someone who simply can perform the job when asked…or someone who does perform the job every working hour of every working day.

All We Do
Education, experience and expertise define dentists and orthodontists alike. Extra requirements aside, the major difference is that orthodontists focus solely on orthodontics. It’s a single area of science that they love, with rewarding results and smiles that remind them every day why they dedicate their lives to the practice. At Cuozzo Orthodontics, Dr. Patrick Cuozzo even commits his free time to serving as a university professor for the next generation of orthodontists. It’s a token of his appreciation for the art and passion for the profession.

Watch Dr. Pat explain the difference between an orthodontist and dentist, with a nod to why orthodontics is what we do and all we do. Want to learn more about treatment options for you or your child? Schedule a complimentary in-person consultation at Cuozzo today.