It’s recommended that you see a dentist twice a year to help prevent any dental health problems and improve oral hygiene habits. But when would you need to see an orthodontist? While both are dental professionals, they offer different kinds of services.

And understanding the differences between a dentist and an orthodontist will help you figure out which dental professional is better suited to address your dental needs. Here’s what you need to know about them to make an informed decision.

What is a Dentist?

A dentist offers primary dental care. He or she is trained in the overall health of the teeth and gums. A dentist provides a variety of different services, such as the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the teeth and gums, restorative and preventive procedures, and surgery or other specialist services.

One of the most important responsibilities of a dentist is promoting good dental hygiene. This is to help prevent any complications in your mouth or other parts of your body.

Many dentists use modern equipment and technology, like brushes, drills, scalpels, X-ray machines, and other medical tools, to perform dental procedures. And if you’ll notice, they also wear protective equipment, such as gloves and masks, to prevent the spread of bacteria or germs.

When Should You See a Dentist?

There are various reasons to see a dentist, and it’s necessary to get a dental checkup every six months.

At the top of our list is preventive care. Your dentist will check for any signs of dental decay or gum problems—to see if you have cavities, mild gum disease, or oral hygiene problems—and have them treated right away before they get worse.

Moreover, your dentist will clean your teeth to remove tartar buildup, which is often the cause of gum disease and tooth decay. Plus, he or she will give you tips on how to best take care of your gums and teeth at home.

Another important reason to see a dentist is when you’re feeling pain or discomfort in your gums, jaw, mouth, or teeth. It could be a sign of an underlying condition. And if your gums are bleeding or you’re having trouble chewing, you should see a dentist to know what the causes could be.

And a good reason to visit a dentist is to improve the appearance and function of your teeth. If you have a broken tooth or severely decayed teeth, your dentist might recommend applying bonding, crowns, or veneers.

What is an Orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a trained professional who will analyze how your teeth look, diagnose irregularities in your jaw and teeth, and treat these irregularities and other issues to make sure you have a beautiful smile.

Furthermore, orthodontists specialize in aligning jaws and correcting crowded teeth. They also treat gaps between teeth and jaws that don’t align properly using dental devices such as braces, clear aligners, and retainers. And since alignment problems are distinct for each patient, orthodontists usually create individualized treatment plans.

When Should You See an Orthodontist?

If your teeth are misaligned, your teeth are overcrowded, or you have irregular bite patterns, it’s time to see an orthodontist.

Not only can an orthodontist help straighten your teeth and align your jaw, he or she can also help prevent tooth decay and other oral health issues and help you regain your confidence.

Dentist vs Orthodontist

Dentists and orthodontists have many similarities, and they both work together to help improve your dental health. A dentist covers a wide range of oral health issues, while an orthodontist focuses more on aligning jaws and straightening teeth.

Meet Our Dentists and Orthodontists in Kitchener, ON

Dentists and orthodontists, both deal with dental health issues. However, the level of care they provide varies. Choosing which of the two to see and consult should be based on your dental health and the services you need. And to help you get the right dental care and treatment you need, contact Orthodontic Smile Studio today at (226) 929-8983.

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