A common misconception about an orthodontist in Raleigh is that they only implement braces and help with the alignment of someone’s teeth. While these may be responsibilities of orthodontists which make up for most of what they do on a daily basis, these aren’t the only things that they do.
Orthodontists are still dentists. In fact, no orthodontist can be one if they aren’t a dentist. On the opposite side, however, it’s not the same. A dentist can’t be regarded as someone who’s knowledgeable on orthodontics because of the study involved which can take a year, two, or more.
What does a dentist do?
To fully make the distinction between what a dentist does and what an orthodontist does, you have to first identify what a dentist does. Below are some of the things that you can expect for a dentist to do:
A dentist is officially classified as one once they complete their dental degree. During this process, they will learn how to diagnose and treat common problems and diseases that may affect your mouth, gums, and teeth.
A dentist is also someone that can perform general dental care as well as maintenance. They are able to do this for ages all across the board because there are no limitations.
If there’s anything beyond the capabilities of a dentist such as the fitting of braces, they will have to refer their patient to an orthodontist.
Compared to a dentist, how does an orthodontist differ?
Because of the things that an orthodontist has to study about during their additional 3 years of full-time university for their orthodontics training, they usually become professionals much later than dentists. Some orthodontists take other courses as well especially those that can really help towards the services that they offer like:
An orthodontist in Raleigh can diagnose and treat any crooked teeth, misaligned jaws, and bad bites. These can present the patient with a litany of problems in the future if they aren’t addressed early on.
An orthodontist will be able to assist you with facial growth and dental development. They are able to provide this, along with many other treatment options for all ages.
At university, orthodontists are trained to oversee the treatment when it comes to orthodontic procedures. They are also privy to the fitting of braces.
Orthodontists will have to register as dental specialists even if they are already classified as a dentist.
Where should you go?
If you are unsure of what you need to with your dental and oral hygiene, you can go to the dentist. A family dentist will be able to assist you with the more common and general issues pertaining to your dental and oral hygiene. If that’s not the case, you should go to an orthodontist.
Most orthodontists work as solo practitioners and only have a handful of staff to help them with day-to-day responsibilities beyond their medical capabilities. It’s important to know whether the schedule and quoted pricing work for you before you get any treatment done.
All orthodontists are dentists but not all dentists are orthodontists. Whether you need braces, Invisalign, retainers or other treatments, find the best orthodontist in Raleigh for you.
