When it comes to caring for your teeth, you may wonder whether to see a general dentist or an orthodontic specialist—especially if you're considering braces or Invisalign. While both professionals are trained in oral health, their roles, training, and areas of focus are quite different. Understanding these differences can help you make the right decision for your dental needs.
What Does a General Dentist Do?
A general dentist is your primary dental care provider. They focus on the overall health of your teeth and gums, offering routine checkups, cleanings, fillings, crowns, and preventive care. General dentists are trained to detect signs of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. They also perform some cosmetic procedures, such as teeth whitening or bonding.
Most people visit their general dentist every six months. This relationship is important for maintaining healthy teeth and catching issues early. However, if a dentist sees problems related to jaw alignment, crowded teeth, or bite issues, they will typically refer patients to an orthodontic specialist.
What Is an Orthodontic Specialist?
An orthodontic specialist is a dentist who has completed additional education—usually two to three years—focusing solely on diagnosing, preventing, and treating alignment issues of the teeth and jaws. This includes problems like crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, and crossbites.
At Bettagere Orthodontics, our team works specifically in this area every day. Our training allows us to understand the full range of orthodontic problems and how to treat them with precision using braces, clear aligners (like Invisalign), and other appliances.
Key Differences in Training
Both general dentists and orthodontists earn a dental degree (DDS or DMD). After that, orthodontic specialists go on to complete a residency in orthodontics, which focuses on jaw growth, facial development, biomechanics, and tooth movement. This added training is essential for treating more complex alignment issues safely and effectively.
Think of it like this: your general dentist is like a primary care doctor, while your orthodontist is more like a specialist, such as a cardiologist or dermatologist. Both are important, but they serve different roles.
When Should You See an Orthodontist?
You don’t need a referral from your general dentist to visit an orthodontist. If you or your child has concerns about how the teeth fit together, crowded or crooked teeth, or habits like thumb-sucking that affect alignment, you can schedule a consultation directly with an orthodontic specialist.
At Bettagere Orthodontics, we offer evaluations for children, teens, and adults. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic checkup by age 7. Early visits don’t always lead to immediate treatment, but they allow us to monitor growth and intervene at the right time if needed.
Adults can benefit too—orthodontic care isn’t just for kids. With options like Invisalign and clear ceramic braces, we can correct alignment without drawing too much attention to the process.
Can a General Dentist Provide Braces or Invisalign?
Some general dentists offer braces or clear aligner treatments, but there’s an important distinction. Because they don’t specialize in orthodontics, they may not have the same level of experience or training in managing complex bite or jaw problems. They typically handle straightforward cases, while orthodontic specialists are equipped to manage a broader range of issues and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Choosing an orthodontic specialist like Bettagere Orthodontics ensures that your treatment is based on a deep understanding of how teeth move and how the jaws grow and function. It also reduces the risk of complications during treatment.
Working Together for Better Oral Health
General dentists and orthodontists often work together. Your dentist helps maintain your oral health during orthodontic treatment, while your orthodontist focuses on alignment. At Bettagere Orthodontics, we encourage ongoing communication with your dentist throughout your care. This teamwork helps ensure that your smile stays healthy and strong—both during and after orthodontic treatment.
Final Thoughts
Both general dentists and orthodontic specialists play essential roles in your oral health. For cleanings, fillings, and routine care, your dentist is your go-to. But when it comes to alignment issues, orthodontic specialists have the focused training and experience to provide the most effective treatment.
If you’re not aware whether you need orthodontic care, Bettagere Orthodontics is here to help. We’ll assess your needs, answer your questions, and guide you toward the right next steps—no pressure, just honest advice.