When it comes to taking care of your smile, both dentists and orthodontists play important roles. While there is some overlap between the two, they focus on different aspects of your oral health.
If you have concerns about crooked teeth, spacing, your bite, or the way your teeth are coming together, you may be wondering whether you should talk to your dentist or schedule a visit with an orthodontist.
Here is what you should know about the difference and when it may be time to visit Grafton Orthodontics.
What Does a Dentist Do?
Your general dentist is typically your first stop for routine oral healthcare. Dentists focus on maintaining the health of your teeth and gums through services such as cleanings, exams, fillings, and other preventive or restorative treatments.
Regular dental visits are important whether or not you are undergoing orthodontic treatment. In fact, patients with braces or clear aligners should continue seeing their dentist for routine cleanings and exams throughout treatment.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
Orthodontists focus specifically on the alignment of the teeth and jaws. After completing dental school, orthodontists receive additional specialized education and training focused on diagnosing and treating orthodontic concerns.
At Grafton Orthodontics, Dr. Amanda evaluates how your teeth and jaws fit together and develops a personalized treatment plan when orthodontic care is recommended.
Treatment may include braces, clear aligners, retainers, or other orthodontic appliances depending on your individual needs.
Signs It May Be Time to See an Orthodontist
You do not need to wait until your dentist tells you to see an orthodontist. There are several reasons you may want to schedule an orthodontic evaluation.
Crowded or overlapping teeth are one common concern. Teeth that are noticeably spaced apart can also benefit from an orthodontic evaluation.
Bite issues are another reason to see an orthodontist. An overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite can affect the way the upper and lower teeth come together.
Other concerns may include difficulty biting or chewing comfortably, teeth that appear to be shifting, or simply feeling unhappy with the alignment of your smile.
What About Children?
Orthodontic evaluations are not only for children who already have noticeably crooked teeth. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic check-up no later than age 7.
At this age, an orthodontist can evaluate developing teeth and jaw growth while a child still has a combination of baby and permanent teeth. An early evaluation does not necessarily mean treatment will begin right away. In many cases, it simply allows the orthodontist to monitor development and determine the best time to begin treatment if it becomes necessary.
Can Adults See an Orthodontist?
Absolutely. Orthodontic treatment is not limited to children and teenagers.
Many adults choose orthodontic treatment because they have always wanted straighter teeth, have noticed changes in their smile over time, or want to address a bite or alignment concern.
Options such as clear aligners can also provide a more discreet way to straighten teeth for adults who may not want traditional metal braces.
Your Dentist and Orthodontist Work Together
Choosing to see an orthodontist does not mean replacing your general dentist. The two work together to support different aspects of your oral health.
Your dentist continues to help keep your teeth and gums healthy, while your orthodontist focuses on improving alignment and your bite. Maintaining regular dental visits throughout orthodontic treatment is an important part of keeping your smile healthy.
Have Questions About Your Smile?
If you are wondering whether you or your child could benefit from orthodontic treatment, you do not have to figure it out on your own.
Dr. Amanda and the team at Grafton Orthodontics can evaluate your smile, answer your questions, and discuss whether braces, clear aligners, or another approach may be appropriate for your needs.
Call Grafton Orthodontics at 262.377.8950 to schedule a complimentary exam and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile!