The terms ‘dental’ and ‘orthodontic’ are often used together, but they refer to different areas of oral care. Understanding the difference can help you know who to see and when.
Dentists provide general oral care, including treating cavities, gum disease and performing routine check-ups and cleanings. They’re your go-to for maintaining healthy teeth and gums and for addressing common issues like tooth decay, infections and early signs of oral disease.
Orthodontists, on the other hand, are specialists within the field of dentistry. They focus on straightening teeth and correcting bite problems using braces, clear aligners and other orthodontic appliances. If your teeth are crowded, misaligned or you have an overbite or underbite, an orthodontist is the professional who can help.
In simple terms: all orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists. Your dentist looks after your overall oral health, while your orthodontist helps guide your teeth and jaw into proper alignment.
Need Orthodontic Treatment in Armidale, NSW?
Unsure whether you need a general dental visit or something more specialised? Your Armidale dentist can always refer you for an orthodontic consultation to determine the best path forward.
We invite you to give us a call at (02) 6772 6554 or book online!