Treatments 3 min read
Orthodontist vs Dentist: Who Should You See?
An orthodontist specialises in bite and alignment. A general dentist treats most problems and can refer you. Here is how to decide.
This guide relates to our braces treatment.
What does an orthodontist do?
Orthodontics is a dental specialty concerned with diagnosing, preventing and correcting bad bites, according to MouthHealthy. An orthodontist focuses on how teeth meet and how the jaws line up, and uses braces and aligners to move teeth into a healthy position.
Our braces treatment in Multan and clear aligner treatment cover the common orthodontic problems, including crowding, gaps and bite problems. Where a case needs a specialist, we say so and explain why.
What does a general dentist do?
A general dentist looks after the whole mouth: check-ups, cleaning, fillings, root canals, extractions, gum care and cosmetic work. Many general dentists also fit simple orthodontic appliances, and they can refer you to an orthodontist when a case is more complex.
| Concern | Usually seen by |
|---|---|
| Crowded, gapped or crooked teeth | General dentist for assessment, orthodontist for complex cases |
| Bite that does not meet properly | Orthodontist, often after a full assessment |
| Decay, pain or a broken tooth | General dentist |
| Gum disease | General dentist, with a referral to a specialist if needed |
| Braces or clear aligners | Orthodontist, or a general dentist trained to provide them |
How do you decide which one you need?
Start with a general dental check-up. The dentist can see the teeth, the gums and the bite, and will tell you whether orthodontic treatment would help. If the bite is complex or the plan involves surgery, a referral to an orthodontist is the usual next step.
Ask who will carry out the treatment, how often you will attend, and who will look after you if something goes wrong during treatment.
Does age change who you should see?
MouthHealthy notes that orthodontic care was once mainly for children and teenagers, but adults now seek it too. Adults with long-standing problems, or changes that happen with age, can have treatment. Gum health is checked first, because it affects how teeth can be moved.
When to see a dentist in Multan
Book a check-up if your teeth feel crowded, a bite feels wrong, or you have pain when you bite. We are open Sunday to Thursday and on Saturday, from 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm, and we are closed on Fridays. Message us on WhatsApp about your bite and we will tell you the next step.
What to ask at your first visit
Ask who will carry out the treatment, and whether an orthodontist will be involved at any stage. Ask how many visits to expect and how often they fall. For braces, ask how adjustments are scheduled, because they usually come every four to six weeks during active treatment.
Ask what happens after treatment. A retainer keeps the result, and you should know how long to wear it and who will check it. Clear answers at the first visit make it easier to compare plans.
This article is general information. Please see a dentist for advice about your own teeth.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an orthodontist for braces?
Not always. Many general dentists provide braces and aligners, and an orthodontist is usually involved for complex bites. We will tell you who should treat you.
Can an adult see an orthodontist?
Yes. Adults can have orthodontic treatment, and the first step is a full assessment of the teeth, gums and bite.
What is the difference in training?
Orthodontists complete further training in bite and alignment after dental school. A general dentist completes dental training and may take additional courses to provide orthodontic appliances.
Can I start with my general dentist and move to an orthodontist later?
Yes. A general dentist can assess the bite first, and refer you to an orthodontist if the case becomes complex. Many people do it this way.
Sources
Have a question about your own teeth?
Book on WhatsApp, and our team will reply with the next steps.