The Differences Between Dentists, Pedodontists, and Orthodontists
- Dentists: All three professionals—dentists, pedodontists, and orthodontists—fall under the realm of oral care specialists, but their expertise diverges into distinct domains.
- Orthodontists: Diving deeper into teeth alignment and jaw corrections, orthodontists undergo an additional two to three years of intensive training solely dedicated to orthodontics.
- Pedodontists: Specializing in comprehensive pediatric dental care, these experts undergo an additional two to three years of training encompassing various facets of children’s dentistry.
While every orthodontist is a dentist, only a small fraction of dentists—roughly 10 percent—pursue orthodontics. Their primary focus remains rectifying misaligned teeth and jaw irregularities.
General dentists and pedodontists usually refer patients to orthodontists when encountering issues related to teeth alignment or bite irregularities, similar to how physicians direct patients to specialists for specific health concerns.
Visiting an orthodontist typically becomes necessary in cases of bite irregularities or misaligned teeth. Thanks to their specialized training, orthodontists stand as the most adept professionals in addressing these concerns, ensuring a robust and enduring dental outcome.
Amidst the surge in general dentists and pedodontists offering orthodontic services, distinguishing the subtleties in treatment and care becomes pivotal. At Affiliated Orthodontics, our unwavering dedication lies solely in orthodontics, crafting numerous radiant smiles over the years. Before embarking on your teeth-straightening voyage, reach out to our office for a complimentary smile examination and uncover the distinctive Affiliated Orthodontics touch.