Many of us visit our dentist on a regular basis, but knowing whether to see a dentist or an orthodontist for things like braces and jaw pain can be tricky. Although dentists and orthodontists have many similarities, they specialize in different areas and offer different services to their patients, as outlined by our Northampton orthodontist below. Keep reading to learn more!
The difference between our Northampton orthodontist and a dentist begins with their education. A profession in dentistry requires a bachelor’s degree and a four-year doctoral program, after which they may begin practicing. A dentist is best described as an oral healthcare professional who specializes in treating the entire mouth. They handle anything from regular cleanings, to filling cavities, to treating gum disease. They can even perform oral surgeries, such as root canals and dental implants. Most dentists recommend their patients visit a minimum of twice per year for standard cleanings and x-rays to stay on top of their oral health.
On the other hand, a professional like our Northampton PA orthodontist must obtain a bachelor’s and a doctoral degree, plus undergo an additional two to three years of residency before they can begin practicing. An orthodontist specializes in maintaining your oral health by straightening your teeth and jaw. Crooked teeth are not only unsightly, they can lead to overcrowding, tooth decay, gum disease, and worse. Orthodontists offer various treatments, including multiple types of braces, to correct these issues. The type of treatment recommended varies on a case-by-case basis, so contact our Northampton orthodontist if you’re experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or misaligned teeth.
Proper oral hygiene is vital to your overall health, so don’t risk permanent damage by ignoring dental issues or by trusting your teeth to anyone other than a professional. Always look for the appropriate degrees and certifications before you choose your dentist or orthodontist. Contact our Northampton orthodontist if you have further questions.
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other topics related to orthodontics, feel free to contact Spark Orthodontics, with a convenient orthodontic office near Northampton PA, by clicking here or by calling 610.223.7777.
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