Orthodontists Vs. General Dentists

Orthodontists Vs. General Dentists – What’s The Difference? 

If you want to straighten your teeth in Wyomissing, you may be wondering if you need to see an orthodontist, particularly if you are interested in clear aligners like Invisalign. A lot of dentists offer Invisalign, and not all of them are orthodontists.

So, what’s the difference, anyway? And is it better to work with a general dentist or an Wyomissing orthodontist to straighten your teeth? Find out in this blog from Molly Hottenstein Orthodontics.

Comparing General Dentists Vs. Orthodontists – Understanding The Difference

General dentists are doctors who are specially trained to treat conditions affecting the teeth, jaw, and mouth. All dentists must attend a four-year dental school program, after which they will graduate with a DDS or DMD degree, and may begin providing dental services to patients.

As the name implies, general dentists do not specialize in any particular part of dentistry. Instead, they provide a wide variety of different basic dental services, including preventive care like teeth cleanings, cosmetic dentistry treatments like veneers, and restorative care like fillings, crowns, and root canals. 

Orthodontists are a bit different. They are dentists and can provide all of the same services as a general dentist, but they also specialize in straightening teeth and adjusting the position of the jaw using braces, Invisalign, and other such orthodontic treatments. 

Like general dentists, orthodontists also must earn a DMD or DDS degree in a four-year dental program. After this, though, the orthodontist must complete post-graduate training, usually in the form of a 2-3 year long medical residency. During this training period, they develop the skills, knowledge, and expertise they need to correct crooked smiles, treat bite issues, and provide expert orthodontic care. 

You Should Choose An Orthodontist If You Want A Straighter Smile 

Some general dentists offer orthodontic treatment like Invisalign, and some can even offer braces if they’ve undergone the appropriate training. But, as a rule, it’s better to see an orthodontist if you want to straighten your teeth.

Why? It’s simple. Because orthodontists like Dr. Molly Hottenstein specialize in straightening teeth. It’s what they do. While orthodontists may also offer some general dentistry services, orthodontics is always their main focus. 

An orthodontist is simply more qualified to provide the care you need for a straighter smile and a healthier bite. An experienced orthodontist can develop a customized treatment plan and handle almost any complication related to the alignment of your teeth and jaw.

General dentists don’t have the same level of experience and training, and they may not be able to offer the same results as an orthodontist, or handle complex cases that may require surgery or advanced orthodontic treatments.

Contact Molly Hottenstein Orthodontics For Treatment In Wyomissing 

If you’re interested in orthodontic treatment for yourself or for your child, choosing an orthodontist like Dr. Molly Hottenstein is the best option. Dr. Hottenstein is an experienced and highly-regarded orthodontist in Wyomissing. So don’t wait. Contact us online or give us a call at (484) 258-2299 to schedule an orthodontic consultation at Molly Hottenstein Orthodontics today.