When it comes to oral health, most people are familiar with the term “dentist.” However, the role of an orthodontist is sometimes misunderstood or overlooked, often until someone needs braces or other corrective treatments. While both professionals play a critical role in maintaining a healthy smile, their training, specialties, and services differ in key ways.
This article breaks down the differences between dentists and orthodontists, including their education, services, and how to know which specialist is right for you or your family. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of each profession and the value they bring to your dental health.
What Is a General Dentist?
A general dentist is your primary dental care provider. They’re the first person you visit for routine checkups, professional cleanings, fillings, and more. General dentists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide variety of oral health issues related to the teeth, gums, and mouth.
Education and Training
To become a dentist in the United States, one must complete:
- A four-year undergraduate degree (typically with a focus on biology or chemistry)
- A four-year dental program at an accredited dental school, earning either a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
This totals about eight years of education. After dental school, dentists must pass a licensing exam to practice in their state.
Services Provided by a General Dentist
General dentists offer a wide range of services, including:
- Preventive care: exams, X-rays, and cleanings
- Cavity treatment: fillings and sealants
- Gum care: scaling and root planing
- Tooth repair: crowns, bridges, and root canals
- Cosmetic dentistry: teeth whitening, veneers, bonding
- Tooth replacement: dentures and implants
- Basic orthodontics: Invisalign or other clear aligner systems (in some cases)
Dentists can identify and treat many oral health problems and refer patients to specialists when necessary, such as an orthodontist or oral surgeon.
What Is an Orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. If you’ve ever had braces or aligners, you’ve probably worked with an orthodontist.
Education and Training
Orthodontists are first trained as general dentists. After earning their DDS or DMD, they undergo an additional two to three years of full-time, specialized education in orthodontics. During this time, they learn how to safely and effectively move teeth, guide facial development, and manage jaw alignment issues.
This means that while all orthodontists are dentists, not all dentists are orthodontists.
Services Provided by an Orthodontist
Orthodontists specialize in:
- Diagnosing and treating malocclusions (bad bites)
- Braces: traditional metal, ceramic, lingual, and self-ligating
- Clear aligners, such as Invisalign
- Retainers and other post-treatment devices
- Jaw alignment correction: using appliances or surgery in complex cases
- Early orthodontic intervention in children
- Managing the growth and development of facial structures
Orthodontists use advanced imaging and digital treatment planning tools to create precise movement strategies for teeth and jaw correction.
Key Differences Between a Dentist and an Orthodontist
Understanding when you should visit one over the other helps to clearly identify how their roles differ. Here’s a comparison across several important categories:
When Should You See a Dentist?
You should see your general dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning. Dentists are the go-to professionals for maintaining overall oral health. Here are some common reasons to visit your dentist:
- Toothache or sensitivity
- Bleeding gums or bad breath
- Cracked or chipped tooth
- Loose filling or crown
- Preventive exams and X-rays
- Cosmetic improvements like whitening or veneers
Dentists are also usually the first to notice alignment or bite issues and can refer you to an orthodontist if needed.
When Should You See an Orthodontist?
There are a few clear signs it’s time to visit an orthodontist, including:
- Crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Overbite, underbite, or crossbite
- Jaw pain or clicking
- Thumb-sucking habits past age 5 (in children)
- Teeth that don’t meet evenly when your mouth is closed
Most orthodontists recommend that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7, even if treatment doesn’t begin until later. Early evaluation can help identify issues that are easier to correct during growth.
Adults are also increasingly seeking orthodontic treatment for both functional and cosmetic reasons. Clear aligners have made it more appealing and less noticeable to correct teeth alignment at any age.
Can a Dentist Do Orthodontics?
In some cases, yes—general dentists can offer orthodontic services, particularly for mild cases using clear aligners like Invisalign. Many take continuing education courses to provide this service. However, for complex cases involving significant misalignment, jaw issues, or bite correction, it’s usually best to see a licensed orthodontist.
Orthodontists bring the added benefit of extensive training in facial growth, biomechanics, and long-term stability of tooth movement, which can significantly affect treatment outcomes.
Costs and Insurance: Dentist vs. Orthodontist
General Dentistry Costs
Dental services tend to be more affordable and are often covered by dental insurance, especially preventive care like exams and cleanings. Typical out-of-pocket costs can range from:
- Cleanings: $75–$200
- Fillings: $100–$300
- Crowns: $800–$2,000
Orthodontic Treatment Costs
Orthodontic care is often more expensive and may only be partially covered by insurance. The cost can vary depending on the complexity and duration of treatment:
- Traditional metal braces: $3,000–$7,000
- Ceramic braces: $4,000–$8,000
- Invisalign or clear aligners: $3,000–$8,000
- Retainers: $150–$500
Many orthodontists offer payment plans to make treatment more accessible. It’s a good idea to check with your insurance provider and the office’s financing options.
Working Together: A Team-Based Approach
General dentists and orthodontists often work together to provide coordinated care. For example, a dentist may refer a patient to an orthodontist for bite correction and then place crowns or implants after alignment is completed.
This collaborative approach ensures patients get comprehensive, efficient treatment tailored to both function and aesthetics.
Choosing the Right Provider
If you’re trying to decide whether to visit a dentist or an orthodontist, consider the following:
- For general oral health and hygiene, start with a general dentist
- For teeth straightening or jaw issues, visit an orthodontist
- If you’re unsure: A dentist can assess and refer you
Make sure any provider you choose is licensed, well-reviewed, and transparent about treatment plans and costs. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about their experience, especially if you’re considering orthodontic treatment from a general dentist.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between a general dentist and an orthodontist empowers you to make informed decisions about your oral health. Both professionals are essential to maintaining a healthy smile, but they serve different purposes.
Dentists focus on overall dental care, including prevention, repair, and maintenance. Orthodontists specialize in aligning teeth and jaws, improving not only appearance but also function.
If you’re due for a checkup, start with your dentist. But if you or your child needs help with crooked teeth or bite problems, scheduling a visit with an orthodontist might be the next best step.
