What is a Dentist
A dentist is a healthcare professional who is trained to diagnose, treat and prevent oral health problems. A dentist can also provide cosmetic dental treatments to improve the appearance of your teeth. A dentist usually works in a private practice or hospital.
What is an Orthodontist
An orthodontist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of dental and facial irregularities. An orthodontist usually works in a private practice.
Difference between a Dentist and an Orthodontist
The main difference between a dentist and an orthodontist is that a dentist focuses on the overall oral health, while an orthodontist specializes in correcting dental and facial irregularities. Dentists can provide basic orthodontic treatments, but they usually refer patients to an orthodontist for more complex treatment.
What treatments can they carry out?
A dentist can carry out a wide range of treatments, including fillings, crowns, bridges, implants, veneers, teeth whitening and orthodontic treatments. An orthodontist can carry out a wide range of treatments, including braces, aligners, headgear and retainers.
Do I need to see both a dentist and an orthodontist?
You may need to see both a dentist and an orthodontist depending on your oral health needs. For example, if you have crooked teeth, you may see a dentist for a cleaning and then be referred to an orthodontist for braces. However, if you have a more complex dental problem, such as an overbite, you may need to see both a dentist and an orthodontist for treatment.
Which one should you choose for your family
If you are looking for someone to focus on the overall oral health of your family, then a dentist is a good choice. If you or a family member has dental or facial irregularities that need to be corrected, then an orthodontist is a better choice.
How much do cost
Dentists and orthodontists usually charge similar fees for their services. However, orthodontists may charge more for complex treatments.
What services they offer
Dentists and orthodontists offer many of the same services, such as teeth cleanings, exams, x-rays, and fillings. However, orthodontists also offer specialized services, such as braces and other treatments for dental and facial irregularities.
Hours of operation
Dentists and orthodontists usually have similar hours of operation. However, some dentists may offer extended hours or be open on weekends, while most orthodontists are only open during weekdays.
How to make an Appointment
You can usually make an appointment with a dentist or orthodontist by calling their office or visiting their website.
Cancellation policy
Dentists and orthodontists usually have similar cancellation policies. However, some dentists may charge a fee if you cancel your appointment less than 24 hours in advance, while most orthodontists do not charge a fee for cancellations.
Payment policy
Dentists and orthodontists usually have similar payment policies. However, some dentists may accept insurance, while most orthodontists do not.
Refund policy
Dentists and orthodontists usually have similar refund policies. However, some dentists may offer a refund for unused services, while most orthodontists do not offer refunds.
Scheduling policy
Dentists and orthodontists usually have similar scheduling policies. However, some dentists may require that you schedule your appointment in advance, while most orthodontists do not require this.
What is the age limit
There is no age limit for seeing a dentist or an orthodontist. However, most orthodontists only treat patients over the age of 18.
Final Verdict
Dentists and orthodontists are both specialists in oral health, but they offer different services. Dentists usually focus on overall oral health, while orthodontists specialize in correcting dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists can provide a wider range of treatments than dentists. You may need to see both a dentist and an orthodontist depending on your oral health needs.