When it comes to caring for your smile, knowing the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist can save you time, money, and confusion. While both professionals work with teeth and oral health, they do very different things. If you’re wondering who to book in with—especially when it comes to things like metal braces, teeth straightening, orthodontics for adults or general oral health—this blog breaks it all down for you.
Whether you’re exploring dentistry or orthodontics for children, teens, or adults, knowing who to see and when will help you make the right call for your preferred oral health appointments and goals.
So, What’s the Difference?
Dentists are your go-to for general oral health. Think check-ups, fillings, cleaning, crowns, root canals, and gum care. They’re the first line of defence in protecting your pearly whites and gums from decay, cavities, and other everyday dental dramas.
Orthodontists, on the other hand, are specialists in straightening teeth and aligning jaws. They’ve done all the same dental training as a dentist, then gone on to complete further specialist study (usually a few extra years) in orthodontics. So, when it comes to braces, jaw alignment, and correcting bite issues, orthodontists are your smile’s best friend.
When to See a Dentist
You should book with a dentist if you need:
- Routine check-ups and cleanings
- Fillings for cavities
- Treatment for gum disease
- Tooth extractions
- General oral pain or discomfort
- Crowns, veneers, or bridges
- Advice on oral hygiene and diet
Dentists are ideal for maintaining overall oral health. They’re great at identifying issues early—and they’ll often be the ones to refer you to an orthodontist if they spot signs that your teeth or jaw could use realignment.
When to See an Orthodontist
Orthodontists specialise in correcting alignment issues like:
- Overbites or underbites
- Crooked or overcrowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Jaw misalignment
- Teeth grinding related to bite issues
- Concerns about smile aesthetics
Orthodontists offer various specialist treatment options including metal braces, clear aligners like Invisalign, and orthodontics for adults who missed the boat in their teen years. If your concern is alignment or bite-related, heading straight to an orthodontist is usually your best move, even as a teen.
What About Kids and Teens?
Timing is everything—especially for growing smiles. That’s why orthodontics for children typically starts with a consultation around age 7–8. This early intervention helps specialists spot jaw development issues, overcrowding, or potential alignment problems before they become more complex.
For teens, orthodontic treatment becomes more common. Their adult teeth are usually all in, and their bones are still malleable enough for quicker results. Whether it’s traditional metal braces, invisible braces like ceramic braces, or clear aligner options like Invisalign, this age group often gets the best outcomes in the shortest timeframes.
Can Adults Get Orthodontic Treatment?
Absolutely. More adults are investing in their smiles than ever before, thanks to more advanced orthodontic technology and discreet treatment options. Orthodontics for adults can address long-standing bite issues, crowding, gaps between the teeth, and even aesthetic improvements that boost confidence, no matter your age. Treatments today are less invasive, more comfortable, and better suited to busy lifestyles than ever before.
Collaboration, Not Competition
Here’s the real kicker—dentists and orthodontists often work together. A dentist might refer you to an orthodontist for alignment issues or orthodontic appliances, and the orthodontist might refer you back for fillings or cleanings during treatment. It’s a tag-team effort for total oral wellness.
Final Thoughts: Who’s Right for You?
Choosing between a dentist and an orthodontist comes down to what’s going on in your mouth. For routine care, your dentist is the one. But if straightening your teeth or fixing your bite is on the agenda—whether for yourself or your child—it’s time to book with a specialist.
From early orthodontics for children to adult treatment options like Invisalign and metal braces, orthodontists are trained to guide you through every stage. And remember—orthodontics for adults is more common (and more comfortable!) than you might think. Whether you’re 14 or 40, there’s no shame in getting the smile you’ve always wanted.
