A dentist treats general oral health, while an orthodontist is a dentist with extra training in straightening teeth and jaws.
Dentist
Provides general care: cleanings, fillings, crowns, extractions and checkups.
Orthodontist
A dentist who completed 2 to 3 more years of residency in aligning teeth and jaws. Provides braces and aligners.
When to see
Dentist: twice yearly. Orthodontist: for crooked teeth or bite issues, ideally by age 7.
Cost
Braces typically cost $3,000 to $7,000.
Referral
Your dentist may refer you.
Dentist
A general dentist handles routine oral care: exams, cleanings, X-rays, fillings, crowns, extractions, root canals in many cases and gum disease treatment. Dentists complete 4 years of dental school (DDS or DMD) after a bachelor’s degree.
Orthodontist
An orthodontist is a dental specialist focused on straightening teeth and aligning jaws, using braces, clear aligners and retainers. After dental school, they complete a 2 to 3 year residency in orthodontics. Only about 6% of dentists in the US are orthodontists, according to the American Dental Association.
When to see an orthodontist
- Crowded or crooked teeth.
- Overbite, underbite, crossbite or open bite.
- Gaps between teeth.
- Jaw problems or difficulty chewing.
- The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a check-up by age 7.
Treatments
Metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces (behind the teeth), clear aligners such as Invisalign, palatal expanders and retainers. Treatment lasts 12 to 36 months on average.
Cost
Braces cost about 3,000 to 7,000 dollars in the US, and clear aligners 3,000 to 8,000 dollars. Dental insurance often covers part, up to a lifetime maximum of around 1,000 to 2,000 dollars.
Referral
Many orthodontists accept patients directly, though a dentist can refer you.
Retention
Teeth tend to shift, so retainers are needed after treatment, often indefinitely.
Other specialists
Periodontist (gums), endodontist (root canals), oral surgeon, pediatric dentist and prosthodontist.
Direct to consumer aligners
At-home aligner programs have drawn warnings from dental groups about the lack of in-person supervision.
Training and care
A general dentist treats overall oral health, such as cleanings, fillings and gum care. An orthodontist is a dentist who completes an additional 2 to 3 years of accredited residency to specialize in aligning teeth and jaws using braces, clear aligners, retainers and appliances. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first check up by age 7 to catch bite problems early. Orthodontic treatment typically takes 12 to 36 months, followed by retainers.
Costs and options
Braces cost roughly 3,000 to 7,000 USD and clear aligners about 3,000 to 8,000 USD, depending on case and location, and insurance may cover part. Your dentist can refer you. Direct to consumer aligner companies skip in person supervision, and the American Dental Association has raised concerns about patient safety, so choose a supervised orthodontist. Retainers must be worn as directed to prevent teeth from moving back. Good brushing and flossing are essential during treatment.
Based on data from the American Association of Orthodontists and the American Dental Association
