While orthodontics and general dentistry focus on dental care, the two have significant differences. Orthodontics identifies and treats dental and facial irregularities, whereas general dentistry focuses on oral health.
This article discusses the difference between orthodontics and general dentistry. It includes the common treatments and procedures under each category, how to choose a good orthodontist, and the cost and duration of orthodontic treatment. This way, you can make informed decisions about your dental care needs and achieve a straighter, healthier smile.
What Is the Difference between Orthodontics and General Dentistry?
Orthodontics
Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dental care that is concentrated on identifying, stopping, and treating dental and facial irregularities. Unlike general dentistry, which focuses on the patient’s oral health, orthodontics deals with the alignment of teeth and jaws and how they function.
Orthodontic treatment is necessary when there are problems with the alignment of the teeth and jaws, which can lead to various dental and health issues. These include difficulty in speaking and chewing, gum disease, tooth decay, and jaw pain. Orthodontic treatment can help correct these problems by straightening the teeth, improving the bite, and creating a more attractive smile.
Here are some of the most common orthodontic treatments available to correct dental and facial irregularities:
- Traditional Braces
- Clear Braces
- Lingual Braces
- Self-Ligating Braces
- Invisalign
- Retainers
- Palatal Expander
- Headgear
The type of treatment the orthodontist recommends will be determined by the patient’s specific needs and the severity of the dental and facial irregularities. These conditions can be caused by genetics, dental decay, injury, or other factors.
General Dentistry
General dentistry includes a variety of treatments and procedures that focus on the overall oral health of patients. They are used to repair cavities, replace missing teeth, and restore damaged teeth. All of these treatments are designed to improve the overall health of your mouth.
Here are some of the most common treatments that fall under this category:
- Dental Cleanings and Exams
- Root Canal Therapy
- Tooth Extraction
- Gum Disease Treatment
- Oral Cancer Screenings
- Dental Sealants
- Dentures
- Fillings
- Dental implants
- Dentures
- Root canals
- Crowns
- Bridges
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Emergency Dental Service
Emergency dental services are designed to provide prompt treatment for patients experiencing severe dental problems or trauma outside of regular office hours. These services are provided by general dentists and dental professionals who have the necessary training and expertise to diagnose and treat dental emergencies.
How to Know if a Dentist Is Good with Orthodontics?
Dentists can provide some orthodontic treatments, but only orthodontists are specialists who have received additional training and education beyond dental school to diagnose and treat dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists undergo another 2-3 years of specialized training in orthodontics after dental school and are recognized by the American Dental Association as specialists in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics.
General dentists may provide some basic orthodontic treatments, such as Invisalign or minor teeth movement, but they have a different level of specialized training and experience than orthodontists. It is recommended to seek treatment from an orthodontist for more complex orthodontic cases to ensure the best possible outcome.
How Much Do These Treatments Cost?
The price of orthodontic treatment depends on the type of treatment, how bad the dental problem is, and where the dental office is located. Traditional braces can cost between $2,500 to $7,000, while Invisalign can cost between $3,000 to $8,000. This is just an estimate, which can go lower or higher. It’s always best to ask your dentist for a more accurate quote.
It is also important to note that insurance may pay for a portion of your orthodontic treatment costs. Make sure to call your insurance provider beforehand to see if you’re covered. Additionally, many dental clinics offer flexible and convenient payment pay options, which you can pay weekly or monthly. You may visit this website https://hellofamilydental.com/orthodontics/, for more information.
How Long Will the Treatments Last?
The length of orthodontic treatment varies according to the treatment chosen and the dental issue’s severity. Generally, traditional braces can take between 18 months to 3 years to complete, while Invisalign can take 6 months to 2 years. Patients should discuss the duration of treatment with their orthodontist before starting the procedure.
Conclusion
Orthodontic treatment can significantly improve your smile’s appearance, function, and overall health. With various treatment options available, there is a solution for every patient’s unique needs. For the best possible outcome, seek treatment from a certified orthodontist for more complex cases, as they have the necessary training and experience. While the cost and duration of treatment may vary, the benefits of achieving a straighter, healthier smile are priceless.
