What Does an Orthodontist Do That a Dentist Doesn’t? Find Out!

What is the difference between a board-certified orthodontist and a general dentist? Discover Key Facts!

Did you know that not every dentist who offers braces or clear aligners has specialized training in straightening teeth and jaw alignment? When it comes to transforming your smile and achieving optimal oral health, it’s essential to understand who is guiding your orthodontic journey. With so many dental care providers, patients often ask: What is the real difference between a board-certified orthodontist and a general dentist? Uncover the key facts and be sure you’re making the best choice for your beautiful smile! Unlocking the Truth: What is the Difference Between a Board-Certified Orthodontist and a General Dentist? As you navigate treatment options for dental and orthodontic care, it’s vital to know what is the difference between a board-certified orthodontist and a general dentist? While both professionals contribute to your overall oral health, their paths diverge dramatically once dental school ends. General dentists are highly trained in routine dental care and maintaining dental health, whereas board-certified orthodontists undergo additional years of specialized training focusing solely on orthodontic treatment, jaw alignment, and facial bones. This difference is especially crucial when considering treatments like clear aligners, traditional braces, or other customized treatment plans requiring precision and specialized expertise. By understanding the unique roles, training, and certification of each provider, you’ll recognize why some procedures are best left to certified orthodontists. As you read on, you’ll clearly see how the quality of care and treatment outcomes hinge on this distinction—and why your orthodontic journey deserves expertise every step of the way. By the end of this article, you’ll understand: The pathways to becoming a certified orthodontist vs. a general dentist The significance of orthodontic treatment and who should manage it How specialized training distinguishes certified orthodontists from general dentists Examples of orthodontic treatments including clear aligners, and how care varies between professionals Key Differences: Board-Certified Orthodontist vs. General Dentist Understanding the differences between a board-certified orthodontist and a general dentist comes down to their education, specialization, and the types of care they offer. While both are committed to improving your oral health, their training paths, treatment options, and level of expertise in orthodontic care are unique. A certified orthodontist spends extra years after dental school mastering the science of teeth and jaw movement, giving them the precise knowledge needed to craft the ideal treatment plan for patients needing orthodontic correction. On the other hand, general dentists focus on broader aspects of dental care—like cleanings, fillings, crowns, and preventative oral health—which, while critical, only covers a small portion of the complexities involved with aligning teeth. A board-certified orthodontist holds the highest standard in the field by attaining certification from the American Board of Orthodontics, ensuring they remain up-to-date with the latest advancements and offer the most specialized treatments, such as clear aligners and advanced braces. Ultimately, the differences in education, certification, and typical treatment plans can create measurable impacts in your results, confidence, and long-term dental health. Aspect Board-Certified Orthodontist General Dentist Education Dental school + 2-3 years specialty orthodontic residency Dental school (no specialty training) Certification Board certification by the American Board of Orthodontics Licensure by state dental board Specialized Training Jaw, facial bones, orthodontic treatment planning, braces, clear aligners Cleanings, fillings, preventative dental care, basic orthodontic procedures Orthodontic Care Comprehensive and complex cases, customized treatment plans for braces and aligners Limited orthodontics, basic aligner cases, simple appliances Common Treatment Plans Braces, clear aligners, surgical orthodontics, jaw correction Fillings, crowns, dental cleanings, minor orthodontic adjustments What Defines a Board-Certified Orthodontist? Becoming a board-certified orthodontist involves a rigorous journey beyond general dental education. These specialists complete an extensive orthodontic residency and then earn certification from respected bodies such as the American Board of Orthodontics. Their expertise centers on correcting teeth and jaw irregularities, facial bones alignment, and devising complex treatment plans using tools like clear aligners and traditional braces. This level of advanced training ensures every treatment option is evidence-based and tailored for optimal results, particularly when cases require more than basic tooth straightening. The commitment to advanced dental health education sets certified orthodontists apart and directly benefits patients with comprehensive orthodontic care that considers both function and aesthetics. The recognition as a certified orthodontist means they have demonstrated clinical excellence, completed board examinations , and shown mastery in specialized orthodontic treatments. The difference is not simply in credentials but in their philosophy of care—focusing on delivering results that positively impact both the patient’s oral health and confidence in their beautiful smile. Their advanced knowledge in diagnosing and correcting complex bite issues ensures greater accuracy and leads to lasting changes in dental and facial structure. The Path to Becoming a Certified Orthodontist: Specialized Training and Certification The journey to becoming a certified orthodontist is both highly challenging and rewarding. After completing dental school, aspiring orthodontists must be selected for a competitive orthodontic residency, which typically lasts two to three years. In this environment, they focus exclusively on movement of teeth and jaw alignment, learning advanced techniques for clear aligner therapy, surgical procedures, and designing complex treatment plans. During this period, orthodontic residents study craniofacial growth, biomechanics, and the latest advancements in clear aligners and braces technology. Upon graduation from residency, they must pass meticulous written and clinical examinations administered by the American Board of Orthodontics . Only those who have achieved exemplary standards in knowledge and patient care receive board certification, signifying the highest commitment to their specialty. Throughout their careers, board-certified orthodontists must participate in continuing education to maintain their credentials, staying updated with the ever-evolving landscape of orthodontic care. Board Certification Process for Orthodontic Specialists Achieving board certification as an orthodontist goes beyond classroom learning—it’s a multi-step process involving extensive clinical case presentations and critical review by peers. Candidates submit numerous completed treatment cases for evaluation, demonstrating their mastery of complex orthodontic issues and solutions. The American Board of Orthodontics assesses each case for quality, originality, and effectiveness in improving the patient’s dental health and smile aesthetics. This rigorous process ensures that certified orthodontists provide only the best possible treatment plans and outcomes. Board-certified orthodontists also commit to ethical standards and ongoing education, continually striving to deliver optimal results for each patient. Their certification is a symbol of next-level dedication in orthodontic care, reinforcing their ability to handle cases that go far beyond the capabilities of most general dentists. When you choose a certified orthodontist, you’re gaining access to a provider who has demonstrated excellence at every level of their profession. “Orthodontic treatment goes beyond straightening teeth—it’s about creating healthy smiles through expert care and precision.” What are the Responsibilities of a General Dentist? General dentists act as the foundation of everyday dental care for people of all ages. They are experts in maintaining oral health, preventing cavities, diagnosing oral diseases, and providing treatments such as fillings, crowns, bridges, root canals, cleanings, and routine checkups. Although general dental practice is incredibly vital, its focus is on keeping your teeth and gums healthy through preventative and restorative measures, not on correcting alignment or advanced bite issues. A general dentist might notice and advise on mild orthodontic concerns but typically refers complex cases to specialists. Some general dentists do offer orthodontic treatments, such as simple clear aligner cases or basic fixed appliances, typically after attending short courses or seminars. However, the depth of training and hands-on experience in handling intricate alignment issues or comprehensive treatment plans remains the hallmark of a certified orthodontist . Patients should be aware that while their general dental provider is skilled and trustworthy for general and preventive care, advanced orthodontic care requires the expertise of a specialist. Scope of Practice: What General Dentists Do General dentists are your go-to partners in overall dental health , offering essential services ranging from cleaning to diagnosing tooth decay, restoring damaged teeth, and addressing minor gum issues. Their broad expertise allows them to catch emerging dental issues during routine checkups and provide preventive guidance tailored to each patient’s needs. For children and adults alike, visiting a general dentist regularly helps prevent common dental problems and nurtures a lifetime of healthy habits. However, when it comes to the movement of teeth and jaws—core aspects of advanced orthodontic treatment— general dentists are generally less equipped. While some might offer limited aligner treatments, they do not have the specialized training to diagnose, plan, and execute complex orthodontic cases or manage complications that may arise. This is why interprofessional collaboration between general dentists and orthodontists is crucial—ensuring you always get the highest quality care at every stage of your oral health journey. General Dentistry vs. Orthodontic Treatments: Where Does the Line Get Drawn? While there’s overlap between the roles of dentists and orthodontists , the distinction becomes clear in treatment complexity. General dentists are proficient at addressing common dental needs with a focus on prevention and routine maintenance. In contrast, an orthodontist’s focus is on correcting misaligned teeth, resolving malocclusions, and adapting bone structures for improved facial harmony and dental function. The expertise required for designing customized treatment plans in orthodontics isn’t part of the general dental training—thus, patients with bite issues, severe spacing, or jaw misalignments are best served by a certified orthodontist. These professionals are equipped with a broader arsenal of treatment options and can effectively manage even the most complicated cases, ensuring optimal results that last for a lifetime. Orthodontic Treatments: Who Should Oversee Your Orthodontic Care? With the tremendous advancements in orthodontic treatments, such as clear aligners and modern braces, choosing the right provider has never been more critical. Complex treatments that affect both the appearance and function of your teeth and jaw alignment should be managed by certified orthodontists who possess the advanced skills and experience necessary for delivering predictable and safe results. Although some general dentists offer orthodontic treatments , their scope is often limited to straightforward cases or as an add-on service. If you or your child require more significant orthodontic intervention—such as correction of major bite issues or complicated movements of the teeth—it’s best to trust a board-certified orthodontist for comprehensive care and lasting outcomes. When Is It Best to See a Certified Orthodontist for Orthodontic Treatment? It’s always wise to see a certified orthodontist if you have significant crowding, spacing, jaw misalignment, or complex bite issues. These specialists are trained to handle the full spectrum of orthodontic cases, from early intervention for children to tailored solutions for adults. Their deep understanding of how treatments interact with facial bones and dental health ensures the best possible **treatment plan** for achieving both a healthy and attractive smile. If your goal is long-term success, especially in cases involving surgical interventions or large jaw discrepancies, a board-certified orthodontist is equipped to deliver results that not only look good but also endure the test of time. With their help, your orthodontic journey is managed safely, efficiently, and with the highest standards of care found in the field. General Dentists Offering Orthodontic Treatments: Pros, Cons, and Considerations In some cases, receiving simple orthodontic treatment from a general dentist can be convenient, cost-effective, and suitable for minor corrections using clear aligners or basic appliances. For patients requiring only minimal adjustment, these services might meet their needs. However, the limited experience and training of a general dentist may result in less predictable outcomes or missed opportunities to diagnose larger issues that only become evident with comprehensive planning and evaluation. Choosing a board-certified orthodontist ensures your care is overseen by an expert who can navigate unforeseen challenges, plan for growth and development, and minimize risks. For most significant orthodontic treatments, especially if your goal is optimal, lifelong results, it is always safer and more effective to seek care from a certified specialist. Customized Treatment Plans: Clear Aligners, Braces, and Modern Orthodontic Options Today’s advances in orthodontic care offer a spectrum of choices, from traditional metal braces to invisible solutions like clear aligners . Your customized treatment plan should reflect your specific needs, age, dental history, and overall smile goals. Certified orthodontists have the experience to design intricate treatment options—combining digital scans, advanced biomechanics, and individualized appliance selection—to suit even the most complex situations. Clear aligners have revolutionized orthodontic care, offering both comfort and aesthetics for patients. However, even with these modern systems, the risk of improper usage or inadequate results increases without the detailed oversight of a certified orthodontist. Only a specialist can best determine whether you’re a suitable candidate and guide you through each step with precision and safety. When it comes to complex movements, bite corrections, or cases involving facial bones, a customized treatment plan from a certified orthodontist is the gold standard. How Certified Orthodontists Personalize Your Orthodontic Journey Every patient’s smile is unique, which is why certified orthodontists emphasize creating a fully customized treatment plan. They conduct thorough assessments, including 3D imaging and digital modeling, to analyze your specific orthodontic needs. With this data, they recommend the right appliances or clear aligners and precisely time each phase of the treatment. Their extensive training enables them to monitor progress and make real-time adjustments, ensuring your orthodontic journey achieves both desired esthetics and long-term dental health. Whether the goal is enhanced appearance, improved bite, or correcting complex jaw issues, board-certified orthodontists are equipped to guide you with modern tools and extensive experience. Their commitment is to deliver a treatment journey that’s both smooth and effective, resulting in a strong, beautiful smile that lasts. Clear Aligners in Orthodontic Care: Who is Most Qualified to Provide Customized Treatment? Clear aligners such as Invisalign, ClearCorrect, or other custom systems require more than just inserting a tray. For optimal results, aligners must be carefully planned, managed, and periodically adjusted—a process best handled by a certified orthodontist. Their advanced knowledge ensures your customized treatment plan accounts for the movement of teeth and jaw, bite forces, and predictable, stable outcomes. While some general dentists offer orthodontic care with aligners, they typically address only mild cases and may lack the depth of understanding to address complications or advanced bite problems. A certified orthodontist leverages specialized training to create accurate digital models and guide every change, leading to safer and more effective results for patients of all ages. “The art of orthodontics lies in tailoring the treatment plan to the individual’s needs and complexities.” Frequently Asked Questions about the Difference Between Board-Certified Orthodontists and General Dentists What does it mean to be a board certified orthodontist? Being a board-certified orthodontist means the specialist has completed rigorous post-dental-school training, demonstrated advanced clinical competence through extensive testing, and met the high standards set by the American Board of Orthodontics . Board certification requires ongoing education and periodic re-evaluation, confirming the orthodontist’s dedication to excellence in patient care and outcomes. Which is better, general dentist or orthodontist? Both general dentists and orthodontists play vital roles in dental care. A general dentist is best for routine dental health maintenance, preventive services, and basic dental treatments. However, for issues involving teeth alignment, jaw correction, or bite problems, a board-certified orthodontist is the superior choice due to their advanced training and capacity for creating comprehensive, effective treatment plans. What can an orthodontist do that a dentist can't? An orthodontist provides specialized diagnosis and treatment of misaligned teeth, bite issues, jaw discrepancies, and complex movement of facial bones. While dentists can manage basic orthodontics, they lack the deep understanding and experience with intricate orthodontic appliances, surgical interventions, and comprehensive treatment planning characteristic of orthodontic specialists. This allows orthodontists to deliver more precise and predictable orthodontic care. Can a general dentist be board certified? While general dentists may pursue various post-doctoral certifications, only those who complete a formal orthodontic residency and pass the associated board examinations can become board-certified orthodontists . General dentists are not eligible for orthodontic board certification without this specialized training, reflecting the additional expertise required for advanced orthodontic care. Comparing Treatment Outcomes: Why Board-Certified Orthodontists Deliver Specialized Results Expert diagnosis and treatment plan: Board-certified orthodontists can spot subtle issues and develop comprehensive strategies for correction. Advanced knowledge in orthodontic care: Extensive training leads to state-of-the-art treatment options for patients of all ages. Improved long-term outcomes: Proper alignment and—when necessary—jaw correction result in lasting dental health and esthetic benefits. The unique skills of board-certified orthodontists lead to optimal results for both children and adults. Through precise diagnostic techniques, advanced tools, and ongoing professional development, they consistently provide treatment that not only straightens teeth but corrects underlying skeletal issues, safeguards facial harmony, and anticipates growth or future changes, creating a lifetime of confident smiles. Making the Right Choice: Factors to Consider Before Starting Your Orthodontic Journey Selecting an orthodontic provider is a key decision on your path to a healthy, beautiful smile. Whether you choose a general dentist or a board-certified orthodontist , several factors should influence your choice, including your unique dental history, treatment complexity, and the long-term results you wish to achieve. Reviewing your goals and understanding your provider’s credentials will help ensure you start your orthodontic journey on the right foot. Treatment complexity: Is your case mild, moderate, or complex? Patient’s age and dental history: Are growth and development factors at play? Preference for clear aligner therapy or braces: Which options are offered? Desired long-term outcomes: Are you looking for lasting, predictable results? Expert Insights on the Importance of Specialized Training in Orthodontics Specialized training in orthodontics equips certified orthodontists to handle every aspect of tooth and jaw movement, complex diagnoses, and the use of cutting-edge techniques. This training, combined with their dedication to continuing education, means patients can trust in the safety and effectiveness of each recommended treatment plan. The difference in results—function, aesthetics, and comfort—underscores why patients with orthodontic concerns should always consider specialists for their care. “Orthodontic care is a precise science; specialized training ensures the highest quality outcomes for every patient.” Success Stories: Orthodontic Patients Share Their Journeys Countless patients have seen their lives and confidence transformed under the guidance of board-certified orthodontists . From children discovering newfound pride in their appearance to adults experiencing restored dental function and joy, these stories share a common theme—expertise matters. Patients who moved from general dental aligner treatments to specialist orthodontic care often report more predictable, stable, and stunning results. Their journeys highlight the value of trusting your smile to someone with the knowledge to address obstacles and foresee changes ahead. “Choosing a certified orthodontist made all the difference in my smile transformation.” Summary of Key Distinctions and Making Informed Choices for Orthodontic Treatment Here are the most important differences to keep in mind when choosing between a board-certified orthodontist and a general dentist for your orthodontic care: Education: Orthodontists receive several years of additional training after dental school. Treatment options: Certified orthodontists can address all levels of complexity, while general dentists typically handle only basic cases. Results: Orthodontists offer greater precision, stability, and long-term success. Quality of care: Board certification signifies a commitment to excellence and specialty-level care. Ready for Orthodontic Treatment? Discover the Benefits of Consulting a Certified Orthodontist Today Take the first step towards your best smile by seeking a consultation with a board-certified orthodontist. Their specialized training , commitment to excellence, and advanced knowledge will ensure your orthodontic journey delivers the healthy and beautiful results you deserve. Choose expertise—your smile is worth it! When considering orthodontic treatment, it’s crucial to understand the distinctions between a board-certified orthodontist and a general dentist. While both professionals are dedicated to oral health, their training, expertise, and scope of practice differ significantly. Education and Training Both general dentists and orthodontists begin their careers by completing dental school, earning either a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. After dental school, orthodontists undergo an additional 2-3 years of specialized orthodontic residency training, focusing exclusively on diagnosing and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. ( indeed.com ) Scope of Practice General dentists provide a wide range of services, including routine cleanings, fillings, crowns, root canals, and preventive care. Some may offer basic orthodontic treatments, such as clear aligners, but their training in this area is limited. Orthodontists, on the other hand, specialize in diagnosing and treating dental and facial irregularities, offering comprehensive orthodontic care that includes braces, clear aligners, and other corrective appliances. ( aaoinfo.org ) Board Certification Achieving board certification signifies an orthodontist’s commitment to the highest standards of care. This process involves rigorous examinations and peer evaluations, ensuring the orthodontist’s proficiency in the field. While general dentists are licensed to practice dentistry, they do not undergo this specialized certification process in orthodontics. ( superorthodontics.com ) Why Choose a Board-Certified Orthodontist? Opting for a board-certified orthodontist ensures that your treatment is managed by a specialist with extensive training and expertise in orthodontics. They are equipped to handle complex cases and provide personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. While general dentists play a vital role in maintaining overall oral health, orthodontists are uniquely qualified to address issues related to teeth and jaw alignment. ( vosmiles.com ) In summary, while both general dentists and orthodontists contribute to oral health, their roles are distinct. For specialized orthodontic care, particularly in complex cases, consulting a board-certified orthodontist is the best choice to ensure optimal outcomes.