When people think of braces or clear aligners like Invisalign, an orthodontist often comes to mind—but many still wonder: what exactly does an orthodontist do, and how are they different from a general dentist? The truth is, while both professionals care for your oral health, they have very different focuses and training. If you’re considering straightening your teeth or improving your bite, knowing the difference can help you make the best choice for your smile.
What Is an Orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating misalignments of the teeth, bite, and jaws. They are trained in using a variety of appliances to move teeth and jaws into their proper positions. This includes traditional metal braces, clear braces, clear aligners, retainers, and orthopedic appliances such as expanders, headgear, and bite correctors. It also includes more advanced solutions like surgical orthodontics.
Orthodontists aren’t just making teeth look straight—they’re also ensuring that bites are healthy, jaws are aligned, and facial growth is balanced. Their expertise helps prevent or correct problems like overbites, underbites, crowding, spacing, crossbites, and other dental or skeletal issues that can affect chewing, breathing, speech, and long-term dental health.
How Are Orthodontists Different from Dentists?
While all orthodontists are dentists, not all dentists are orthodontists.
Here’s a quick breakdown of their differences:
Dentist | Orthodontist |
Completes 3 to 4 years of dental school | Completes 3 to 4 years of dental school plus 2 to 3 additional years of orthodontic residency |
Focuses on general oral health: cleanings, fillings, crowns, gum care, etc. | Specializes in the alignment of teeth, bite, and jaws |
May offer basic orthodontic services with limited training | Has extensive, formal training specifically in tooth movement and jaw development |
Primary provider for routine dental care | The go-to expert for complex tooth and bite alignment needs |
Dentists are essential for maintaining oral health, preventing cavities and toothwear, and treating gum disease. But when it comes to moving teeth, adjusting bites, and managing jaw growth—especially in growing children or adults with complex needs—orthodontists have the advanced training to provide services precisely and safely.
The Path to Becoming an Orthodontist
Becoming an orthodontist is a challenging yet rewarding journey that requires years of education, training, and dedication:
Undergraduate Degree: Typically in a science-related field like biology or chemistry.
Dental School: Three to four years to earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree.
Orthodontic Residency: Additional two to three years of specialized training in an accredited orthodontic program. This advanced education focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities.
This additional and extensive education and training provide orthodontists with experience and knowledge of dental and facial development, biomechanics, and the intricate movements involved in orthodontic treatment.
Why See an Orthodontist for Braces or Invisalign?
With so many options for straightening teeth today, including trendy at-home solutions and general dentists offering orthodontic services, it can be tempting to go the quickest or cheapest route. But here’s why choosing an orthodontist is a smart decision:
1. Specialized Training and Experience
Orthodontists undergo thousands of hours of hands-on training focused solely on tooth movement, facial growth, and bite correction. They see and treat orthodontic problems every day and are skilled in handling even the most complex cases. Many Orthodontists even take it a step further and become Board Certified.
2. Customized Treatment
Orthodontists don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. They evaluate each patient’s facial structure, jaw alignment, tooth development, and growth pattern to design a truly personalized treatment plan that balances function, health, and esthetics.
3. Optimal Long-Term Results
Orthodontists are trained to not only create a beautiful smile but also ensure that your bite is healthy and stable for years to come. Proper alignment can reduce the risk of future issues like jaw pain, enamel wear, gum recession, and tooth damage.
4. Advanced Tools and Techniques
Most Orthodontists stay up to date with their specialty, often using the latest technology like 3D imaging, digital scanning, and precision appliances to achieve efficient and effective results.
5. Safe and Monitored Treatment
Moving teeth is a complex biological process. If done incorrectly, it can lead to root damage, gum problems, or even tooth loss. Orthodontists carefully monitor treatment progress and adjust plans as needed to ensure safety and success.
Orthodontists Treat More Than Just Teens
While most people think of braces as a rite of passage for teenagers, most orthodontists treat patients of ALL ages—from young children to adults in their 40s, 50s, and beyond. Early evaluations (by age 7) can catch developmental issues early, while adults may seek care for cosmetic reasons or to correct problems left untreated in childhood.
Whether you’re interested in traditional braces, clear aligners, or a solution for snoring or bite problems, an orthodontist can guide you toward the right option for your goals.
In Summary
Orthodontists are highly trained specialists dedicated to aligning teeth, correcting bites, and improving oral health through expert care. While dentists play a critical role in maintaining your dental health, orthodontists are the trusted experts when it comes to straightening smiles and optimizing function.
If you’re considering orthodontic treatment for yourself or your child, take the time to consult with an Orthodontist. You’ll benefit from their expertise, experience, personalized approach, and commitment to long-term results—because a healthy, confident smile is worth doing right!
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) is a professional organization open only to qualified orthodontists. By choosing an AAO orthodontist for your treatment, you are ensuring that you receive care from a specialist with the expertise and experience to deliver the best possible results.
If you are seeking a beautiful smile for yourself or your child, Godley Family Orthodontics is your trusted orthodontist serving the Zionsville, Carmel, and Indianapolis communities. Dr. Danielle Godley, a Board Certified Orthodontic specialist, offers a welcoming environment for patients of all ages at her family-owned practice.