Orthodontics and dentistry are branches of oral healthcare that contribute to healthy teeth. While both fields help maintain optimal oral health, they require varying education and training and focus on different treatments. Orthodontic Specialists’ provides customized orthodontic treatment plans to address each patient’s needs and concerns.
Understanding Orthodontics
Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that deals with preventing, diagnosing, and correcting teeth and jaw misalignments. We address jaw discrepancies like crossbites, underbites, and overbites to improve clients’ facial structures and oral functions like chewing and talking. Our team will examine your mouth and recommend the most suitable orthodontic treatment based on our findings.
You may need to schedule an appointment if you suffer from sleep apnea or chronic jaw pain and have trouble chewing or articulating, as these problems may result from misalignments. At Orthodontic Specialists, we also monitor the growth and development of the jaw and teeth in children. We’ll monitor their development and intervene when necessary to prevent serious alignment issues from developing.
Understanding Dentistry
Dentistry is a broad field of medicine that involves preventing, diagnosing, and treating conditions related to oral structures like teeth and gums. Dentists typically conduct oral examinations to identify and treat potential problems like tooth decay and gum disease. They also conduct dental cleanings to remove tartar and plaque buildup and can offer restorative treatments like crowns and fillings to repair damaged or decayed teeth.
Dentistry involves more than just functional treatments. It also encompasses cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening and veneers to improve patients’ smiles. Ideally, individuals must visit their dentists for general dental examinations, cleanings, and whitening, if necessary. High-risk individuals like smokers and diabetics need more visits as they’re more prone to dental issues.
Differences Between Orthodontics and Dentistry
The primary difference between orthodontics and dentistry is their scope of practice. We focus exclusively on preventing and correcting dental and jaw alignment issues using orthodontic appliances like braces and aligners. Dentists offer more general services like teeth cleaning and whitening, focusing on conditions like tooth decay. Typically, dentists refer patients to orthodontists if their oral problems result from misalignments.
Education and training requirements also differ for both fields. A dentist typically obtains a bachelor’s degree and a doctoral degree from a dental school before they start their practice. An orthodontist undergoes further training to acquire the knowledge required to correct misalignments. Our team has undergone specialty training at orthodontic residency programs and passed their qualifying exams to become certified orthodontists. The advanced training has equipped us with the expertise to straighten smiles and improve oral functions.
A Top-Rated Orthodontist Cincinnati Practice
At Orthodontic Specialists, we’re committed to giving our clients happier and healthier smiles through effective orthodontic treatments. When you schedule an appointment, our orthodontists will thoroughly examine your smile and recommend an ideal treatment. Using the latest technologies during diagnosis and treatment, we’ll make your experience as comfortable as possible. Schedule your appointment with one of the leading orthodontists Cincinnati practices today.