An orthodontist is a dentist with advanced training specialized in the treatment, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of irregularities in the teeth and jaws. It should be noted that an orthodontist corrects misalignments that could require braces or other types of orthodontic treatment. While the fields of practice of a dentist and an orthodontist are not identical, they do have some similarities. The main similarity between a dentist and an orthodontist is that both focus on oral care.
An orthodontist can work in a dental office and provide the same care as a dentist. However, dental experts recommend that parents take their children to the orthodontist at least once, before their child is 7 years old, to see if there are signs of problems. Both dentists and orthodontists provide beneficial services that improve the health and beauty of smiles. Both dentists and orthodontists are vitally important in helping to maintain strong oral health, better overall health and a better quality of life.
Dentists also improve the function and appearance of teeth by applying adhesives, veneers, or crowns to teeth that are broken, chipped, misshapen, or severely decayed. Seeing the family dentist early in life and continuing to have regular checkups provides children with a healthy foundation of oral health that will last a lifetime. Dentists generally go to college for a pre-dental or pre-medical degree before continuing to graduate school in dentistry. An orthodontist requires additional education as a dental specialty; the situation is similar to that of a doctor who obtains additional education to become a surgeon. In most cases, your dentist will recommend that you seek orthodontic care if needed, or that you work collaboratively with an orthodontist who will provide the type of care you need if you need more specialized treatment. Both a DDS and a DMD mean the same thing: the dentist has graduated from an accredited dental school.
Despite the knowledge and skills that dentists have, certain areas of dentistry have educational programs beyond dental school. Orthodontists also often pursue a pre-dental or pre-medical specialization in their undergraduate degree before entering dental school. Orthodontists often use tools and devices to help correct alignment and promote healthy jaws, bites, and smiles. Orthopedic appliances can be critical components of an effective cosmetic dentistry plan or of a smile restoration treatment process. If you are currently looking for an orthodontist, contact Runnels Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics today.
We'll work with you to make sure you get the best treatment for your needs. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider if you have any questions about a medical condition or treatment. Family dentist at the intersection of Bedford, Colleyville and Euless: Nirvana Dental is a modern, state-of-the-art dental office conveniently located. A lifelong relationship with your dentist can make the difference between preserving the integrity of your teeth and the beauty of your smile, or investing in extensive and extraordinary efforts to restore the beauty of your smile and the integrity of your teeth.
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