Lee Orthodontics Compares Dentists and Orthodontists

Finding the right professional to provide treatments related to one's oral health usually requires an extensive search. Here in Pasadena, for example, the residents have innumerable options to choose from. Similarly, people across the nation can rely on countless experts to help them overcome dental issues.

Although there is no shortage of those who can aid people with oral issues, there is a common misconception related to this industry. Namely, the vast majority of people fail to recognize the difference between dentists and orthodontists. After all, they do have a very similar area of expertise as well as professional focus. So, how can one differentiate between these two types of practitioners? Moreover, what is the exact difference in their qualifications and educational background? Below, Lee Orthodontics aims to clear up some confusion and common misconceptions:

Basic Differences

The most basic difference between dentists and orthodontists boils down to their objectives. For dentists, the primary goal is to help treat any issues pertaining to the patient's teeth, gums, or jaw. Orthodontists, on the other hand, are more specialized in their approach. Although they operate in the exact same area, their main focus is to help align the patient's teeth. This is often done for the purposes of correcting a misaligned bite or improving the visual appearance.

Given that orthodontists require more specialization, they essentially start off as regular dentists. So, while every orthodontist is a dentist, not every dentist will be an orthodontist. Meaning, one has to spend more time to achieve this level as it requires additional training and studies.

Educational Requirements

Expectedly, those who would like to become oral health experts will often have to seek opportunities outside of Pasadena. Luckily, there are currently 66 dental schools around the United States. So, people looking to become dentists should have no issues finding an institution within their state. As far as the education itself, one will not begin their career by going straight to a dental school.

Instead, the process is quite similar to the way that most medical or law programs operate. First, the candidate needs to complete their undergraduate degree at a four-year university. After receiving their diploma, they have to go through another four years of education at a dental school. Once they complete this stage, they become a general dentist. In many cases, people simply stop there and begin their full-time career.

For individuals who would like to obtain further specializations, however, there are a few more years of graduate studies. Once those are completed, they get to partake in a residency program. Ultimately, becoming an orthodontist will take anywhere from 11 to 13 years. In translation, their academic career it is approximately four years longer than that of dentists.

Choosing the Right Professional

Choosing between a dentist and an orthodontist should be fairly straightforward. First, the patient must analyze the issue that they have. For example, if they are experiencing pain, a dentist would be the appropriate expert to seek out. Although an orthodontist will also know how to diagnose the issue, this is not their area of focus.

Fortunately, most cities have numerous practices where both dentist and orthodontist-based services are offered. Just here in Pasadena, per se, there are dozens of offices where people can get the necessary aid.

Versatile Offering

In reality, a lot of orthodontists also provide dental services. This is because they already have the necessary skills and this makes it easier to grow their practice. In fact, according to Lee Orthodontics from Texas, offering both services helps grow a brand. It helps a business create a long-term relationship with the patient who may need both dentist and orthodontist-based services.

Moreover, Lee Orthodontics recognizes that foregoing one's expertise as a general dentist can hinder their professional career. Although they can have a lucrative career as an orthodontist, it could eventually become repetitive. Thus, also treating patients who have dental issues can help maintain a multi-skill portfolio. Not to mention that it is much easier for prospective patients to get all of their needs satisfied in just one place!