Not many of us might be aware that there is a difference between a dentist and an orthodontist. Before you go about hiring these professionals, would it not be a good idea to have some understanding of the differences between the two? This will make the job easier for you and help you to make the right choice. We need to understand that both these professionals provide different treatments and they also have different qualifications, skill sets, and other such attributes. Hence, it would always be advisable to have a reasonably clear idea about the difference between these two professionals so that you can make an informed and correct choice. So, without wasting too much time, we are listing down the differences between the two for the benefit and information of our customers.
Who Is An Orthodontist?
Orthodontics is a specialized and different branch of dentistry. It mainly focuses on those areas that relate to the development of the jaws, teeth, and face. It helps in improving the functioning of these parts of the body and also plays a big role in improving the overall aesthetics. This can be achieved through the use of various things such as wires, braces, removable aligners, and other such things. We also need to bear in mind that an orthodontist is a qualified specialist who has been trained to become a dentist. Once he has completed this basic qualification, he is required to undertake another three years of postgraduate study. This leads him to a qualification that could be equal to a Doctorate or Masters in this field. There is a big demand for orthodontic training posts.
A dentist can become an orthodontist provided he or she can show the right experience in areas of pediatric dentistry, maxillofacial surgery and restorative surgery amongst other things. They need to mandatorily train themselves in dental hospitals and other such places. This certainly is a full-time commitment. Such training helps them to learn the theory related to an orthodontist and also get practical experience by treating members of the public.
Can A Dentist Provide Orthodontic Treatment?
Yes, general dentists can offer orthodontic treatments. Many dentists are experts in offering some of the finest orthodontic treatments. However, it is unlikely that they will have the same time of experience and expertise that a specialist orthodontist possesses. In most cases, once a dentist becomes an orthodontist, he or she will provide only orthodontic treatments. Therefore, they will be able to develop their skills quite fast and they will be able to treat a large number of cases. This could range from minor cases to complicated maxillofacial surgeries.
Things To Bear In Mind
As a customer or a patient, you must be aware of your requirements and then decide whether you will choose the best dentist in OKC or an orthodontist. If it is a simple case of teeth whitening or filling up a decayed tooth, then a dentist can do the job. On the other hand, if it is aligning crooked, wrongly aligned and wrongly formed teeth, then an orthodontist is the person on whom you will have to depend.
Reflections Dental Care Also Offers Following Services :
Cosmetic Dentistry Oklahoma City OK
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Reflections Dental Care Address:10924 Hefner Pointe Dr Oklahoma City, OK Phone: (405) 563-7097