Difference Between An Orthodontist and A General Dentist

Before orthodontics, there are things that patients should be aware of. These include paying attention to the therapist signboard, business card and prescription sheets. If your therapist is an orthodontist, there must be the word “orthodontist” on the signboard, business card and the prescription sheet. If only the word “orthodontics” is written, the therapist is a general dentist, not an orthodontist. On the other hand, the name of an orthodontist can be searched on the internet; thus, making the Internet an excellent source to find an orthodontist, and information.

Choosing a good orthodontist from the records

On the internet, there is a possibility of inaccuracies. For example, many patients on the internet are searching for the phrases and words “good orthodontist“, “orthodontist”, “best orthodontist”, “top orthodontist” and “orthodontist in Tehran” or other cities and find a huge number of websites and may feel confused.

In this situation, if the therapist’s name is present it doesn’t necessarily mean they are an orthodontist. One can easily access the orthodontist’s scientific degrees online including: books, national and international articles, lectures in domestic and abroad congresses, patents and even fellowship in orthodontic surgery and maxillofacial malformation syndrome. Obviously, the academic position of orthodontists teaching in a university, for example: associate professor, assistant professor and professor, are mentioned on the internet showing that the therapist is probably the best orthodontist in that area.

Orthodontic services

Patients with complications such as malocclusion need to see an orthodontist, not a general dentist. Just as patients with cardiovascular diseases see a cardiologist, not a general practitioner. In addition to this, patients should see an orthodontist to diagnose and treat jaw abnormalities which is carried out using the mobile orthodontic appliances. However, if the age of an orthodontic patient is high for the treatment of jaw abnormalities, the orthodontist may also refer the patient to a maxillofacial surgeon. Teeth straightening, which is carried out by the orthodontist with a fixed orthodontic appliance, is needed before the surgical procedure.

In addition to regular dental visits, children need to visit an orthodontist at least once at the age of 8,. For the children with jaw or dental abnormalities and timely diagnosis, orthodontic treatment is the fastest, most affordable and effective solution.

General dentistry services

Most people see a general dentist at least once a year for an oral health check-up. Patients are able to get the necessary advice from the general dentists; they will refer you to a specialist in case of an acute problem. Procedures such as scaling or filling the tooth surface are conducted by a general dentist. Note that for deep tooth restorations, you should consult a restorative dentistry specialist and for wisdom tooth removal, get advice from an orthodontist before visiting a general dentist.

Access to a general dentist and orthodontist

There are some remote areas where a number of patients may not access an orthodontist. Some patients also live far from the orthodontic clinic. Nevertheless, nowadays, there is more or less access to orthodontists in all parts of the country. Therefore, it is recommended to see an orthodontist for treatment of jaw abnormalities and malocclusion.