Orthodontist vs. Dentist: How do they differ?

Working hand-in-hand, orthodontists and dentists are the ultimate power team in creating comprehensive plans for overall oral health.

However, it’s important to know the difference between the two so you can be sure you are visiting the right provider for services.

What is a Dentist?

Dentists have the same initial education as an orthodontist, but they perform procedures such as fillings, crowns, and other restorative treatment.  You’ll visit your dentist office every six months to visit a hygienist for a cleaning and the dentist for an examination.  The dentist will monitor for any active decay and inflammation of the gums or surrounding tissue.

What is an Orthodontist?

Orthodontists are specialists that study how teeth align, how they function and the way your bite fits together. They also monitor airways and evaluate the position and size of your jaws.

In addition to going to dental school, orthodontists continue their education by being accepted into and completing another two to three-year program to specialize in orthodontics.  Orthodontists make sure that when you are done with orthodontic treatment your bite allows you to speak, bite and chew properly.

Working Together

Dr. Maslowski and Dr. Michel work with dentists regularly to create treatment plans for mutual patients. After a visit to our office for a consultation, we will notify your dentist of any treatment recommendations.  We’ll continue to communicate with your dentist during orthodontic treatment to ensure that the dentist is up-to-date on our treatment plan.

Visits to your general dentist are extremely important as you go through orthodontic treatment. While Dr. Maslowski and Dr. Michel monitor your tooth movement, jaw alignment and bite, your dentist will evaluate the overall health of your teeth and gum tissue. Any restorative treatment needed after orthodontics, such as fillings or crowns, will be done by your general dentist.

Getting started with orthodontic treatment

Ready to visit an orthodontist? Schedule a complimentary consultation in our Oshkosh or Wautoma locations by calling (920) 231-4922 or our Appleton location by calling (920) 739-2400.  No dentist referral is needed.  We proudly serve the Fox Valley including Oshkosh, Appleton, Neenah, Menasha, Little Chute, Grand Chute, Kaukauna and Greenville.