When should I see an orthodontist instead of a dentist?

Visit an orthodontist for issues related to teeth and jaw alignment, such as crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, or when braces or other straightening treatments are needed.

At what age should my child see an orthodontist?

It’s recommended that children visit an orthodontist by age 7 to evaluate the development of their teeth, jaw, and palette, ensuring any alignment issues are detected early.

Can orthodontists perform general dental care?

While orthodontists are trained in general oral health, their primary focus is on diagnosing and treating teeth and jaw misalignments. Regular dental care like cleanings and fillings is typically handled by a dentist.

What’s The Difference Between A Dentist And An Orthodontist?

Q: What is the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?

Dentists focus on overall oral health, treating teeth, gums, and mouth conditions, while orthodontists specialize in correcting jaw and teeth misalignments with treatments like braces and other alignment devices.

While the distinction between a dentist and an orthodontist in Idaho may seem self explanatory, there are actually significant differences that some people don’t recognize. We’re here to help clarify specifically what each can do for you, and what you can expect from us as your trusted orthodontist in Soda Springs, Blackfoot, and Pocatello, Idaho.

General Information

February 26, 2022

Dr. Taylor Brown with Idaho Orthodontics looking at teeth results to a patient.

While the distinction between a dentist and an orthodontist in Idaho may seem self explanatory, there are actually significant differences that some people don’t recognize.

We’re here to help clarify specifically what each can do for you, and what you can expect from us as your trusted orthodontist in Soda Springs, Blackfoot, and Pocatello, Idaho.

Dental Vs. Orthodontic Care

Both dentists and orthodontists specialize in oral healthcare. However, understanding their roles matters when it comes to determining which is best for you to see for your needs.

A key difference is that dentists diagnose and treat various teeth, gum, tongue and mouth conditions. While orthodontists also receive similar training, they’re also trained to diagnose and treat jaw and teeth misalignments.

On a daily basis, most dentists treat oral conditions, clean teeth, and provide additional care like X-rays, teeth extraction, fillings for cavities, repair damaged teeth, treat gum disease, whiten teeth, install veneers and crowns, and perform oral surgery.

Your orthodontist in Soda Springs, Idaho can also treat oral care, but they mainly focus on aligning your teeth and jaw. Orthodontists can also perform surgeries to straighten teeth, examine and treat issues with the facial development of children, including their bite. When necessary, orthodontists can also install straightening devices like braces, headgear, or palatal expanders.

So when should you see a dentist or an orthodontist in Blackfoot, Idaho? One helpful rule of thumb is to think of your dentist like a general practitioner for oral health, and your orthodontist as a specialist.

Most oral issues related to the health of your teeth and gums can be treated by a dentist. But if you have any conditions related to your jaw, teeth alignment, or palette, a visit to an orthodontist may be more beneficial.

Also, it’s recommended that children see an orthodontist before age 7 to see if their teeth, jaw, and palette are developing correctly.
If it’s time for you or your child to visit an orthodontist in Pocatello, Idaho, we invite you to book your FREE consultation today!