An orthodontist is a specialist with expertise in correcting teeth alignment and treating jaw misalignment. This is distinct from a general dentist, who primarily focuses on dental and gum diseases.
In this article from Dr. Basel Mofti’s clinic, we shed light on the role of orthodontists, and the conditions they treat, and highlight the differences and similarities between them and general dentists.
Who is the orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a specialized healthcare provider focused on oral and dental care, primarily dealing with diagnosing, and treating issues related to teeth misalignment. They work closely with dentists and oral surgeons to ensure proper development of the jaws and teeth.
After earning a bachelor’s degree in dentistry, an orthodontist undergoes intensive training that equips them with the knowledge and skills necessary to address a wide range of dental alignment issues. Experienced orthodontists offer a comprehensive set of orthodontic services, utilizing the latest techniques and equipment to achieve excellent functional and aesthetic results.
Regular visits to an orthodontist can lead to improvements in your smile and provide you with a better bite, enabling improved chewing and speech.
Tasks of the orthodontist
Orthodontists deal with a diverse range of cases that require precise skills and meticulous attention to treatment details. This includes correcting teeth alignment, treating jaw misalignment, addressing twisted teeth, and various other dental deformities.
Furthermore, orthodontists provide consultations and advice to patients on how to care for their teeth and maintain oral health in general. This contributes to boosting their self-confidence and enhancing their overall quality of life.
One of the key tasks of orthodontists is also monitoring the jaw growth and biting patterns in children to identify potential issues that may develop in the future and find appropriate solutions to address them before they worsen.
Is the dentist an orthodontist?
No, a general dentist differs from an orthodontist in some respects, and they share similarities in others, but the differences between them are substantial.
Both a general dentist and an orthodontist are responsible for oral and dental care, but they employ different treatment approaches. An orthodontist can perform the same tasks as a general dentist for patients, which is why you may find some orthodontists working in dental clinics.
However, a general dentist cannot perform the specialized tasks of an orthodontist because they haven’t undergone the additional, specific training programs related to tooth movement, jawbones, facial structures, and soft tissues that would qualify them to provide orthodontic treatment solutions to patients.
In conclusion
An orthodontist is a highly experienced doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating teeth misalignment and jaw malocclusion, while also providing preventive measures for potential dental or jaw issues that may develop in the future.
If you’re looking to undergo orthodontic treatment and are seeking the best specialist in Dubai, please get in touch with us. We can provide you with information about our services, the technologies we use in treatment, costs, and payment plans. You can then schedule a medical consultation appointment with Dr. Basel Mofti.
For booking and inquiries, please contact us now!
Edited by: Dr. Basel Mofti’s Clinic Team©