There are dentists out there who offer orthodontic services. Does that make them orthodontists? When do you need an orthodontist vs. a dentist? They both work on teeth, so it can be confusing when you need one or the other.
Dr. Fergus is a licensed, certified orthodontist who knows how confusing it can be for patients, especially when dentists offer orthodontic services. What does an orthodontist do compared to a dentist?
Fergus Orthodontics offers treatment with braces or clear aligners and other orthodontic services. Though Dr. Fergus trained as a dentist, she took further steps to become an orthodontist and learn specialized techniques only trained orthodontists are taught.
When it comes to straightening your smile, Fergus Orthodontics can show you why working with an orthodontist is the best option.
What Is a Dentist?
A dentist is a professional who has trained and graduated from dental school or a dental program. They study teeth and human anatomy, but they also undergo residency training, meaning that they work alongside dentists to learn the practice.
Let’s take Dr. Fergus as an example. Here’s what she’s done to become a dentist.
- Completed dental school
- Earned a master’s degree in Dental Science
- Practiced general dentistry in residency or with another general dentist.
What can dentists do once their schooling is complete? Here are some of some of the things they are trained to do:
- Clean teeth
- Read dental images and X-rays
- Fill cavities
- Provide fluoride treatments
- Place dental implants
- Place dental crowns or bridges
Dentists often start their own dental practice after this, but Dr. Fergus wanted to go further. She wanted to work in the specialized field of orthodontics.
What Is an Orthodontist?
What does an orthodontist do? An orthodontist is a dentist who has chosen to train in a specialized field.
The orthodontist completes dental school but then moves on to a special certification program in orthodontics. These programs train them specifically in how to move teeth and create new smiles and better bites.
To put it another way, a doctor can begin by training in general practice, but some doctors move on to specific practices, like pediatrics. They train specifically in treating children patients instead of everyone. The difference between a dentist and an orthodontist is that the orthodontist is more similar to a pediatrician than a doctor of general practice.
What is the American Board of Orthodontics?
The American Board of Orthodontics is the global leader in board certification for orthodontics and sets the standards of care and excellence in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. Their goal is to elevate the quality of care through certification, education, and professional collaboration.
It’s the only orthodontic specialty board recognized by the American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists.
Dr. Fergus completed her degree in dental science but then received her Certification in Advanced Orthodontic Education. She continued her education and training and went on to become a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics.
Only about 20% of practicing orthodontists hold this distinction. Board-certified orthodontists must undergo a written and clinical test to be certified and renew that certification every ten years.
When Should I See a Dentist vs. an Orthodontist?
So when should you see a dentist vs. an orthodontist? Dentists provide care to teeth and overall oral health.
You should see a dentist for these services:
- Cleaning your teeth at least twice a year
- Semi-annual examinations and dental imaging
- Semi-annual check for tooth decay and gum disease
- Cavity fillings
- Adding crowns
- Adding partials
- Adding dental implants
- Getting dentures
- Getting fluoride treatments
Some dentists can also perform root canals, though these can also be performed by specialists in oral surgery called endodontics.
When Do I See an Orthodontist?
If you need to move your teeth, see an orthodontist. That’s because an orthodontist is trained in the precise science of moving teeth.
An orthodontist knows that moving teeth is a delicate task and that doing it wrong can damage the teeth and jaws, sometimes permanently. That’s why it’s so important to see an orthodontist for treatment with braces or clear aligners.
Straight Teeth in Jonesboro, AR
Dr. Fergus isn’t the only one trained in orthodontics. The entire staff of Fergus Orthodontics is dedicated to providing patients in the Jonesboro, AR, area with the best orthodontic care.
We know how important your smile is to your self-confidence and that it’s your best first impression. It’s our job to ensure that your misaligned teeth are moved correctly so that you achieve the smile of your dreams. We are trained in treatment with braces or clear aligners and can show you how our treatment will transform your smile.
If you’re ready to see a board-certified orthodontist about improving your smile, schedule an appointment with Fergus Orthodontics in Jonesboro, AR. Let us show you what an orthodontist can do for you.
