Although dentists and orthodontists work on oral care, they serve different roles in maintaining oral health. Understanding their distinct roles is crucial when selecting which best meets your oral care needs. Here are three key differences between a dentist and an orthodontist in Long Beach, CA.
Education and Training
While both professionals start their journey with a degree in dentistry, orthodontists undergo additional training. After dental school, an orthodontist spends extra years specializing in orthodontics, learning to correct misaligned teeth and jaws.
Scope of Practice
Dentists offer a wide array of oral health services, including cleanings, fillings, extractions, and gum care. On the other hand, an orthodontist in Long Beach, CA, focuses on correcting the alignment of teeth and jaws. They specialize in treatments involving braces, aligners, and other orthodontic appliances.
Treatment Approach
Dentists generally focus on treating a problem after it occurs, like filling a cavity or extracting a decayed tooth. Orthodontists, however, often take a proactive approach, correcting teeth and jaw alignment issues before they result in more severe problems.
Both dentists and orthodontists play crucial roles in maintaining oral health. Understanding the difference between their roles is essential in knowing who to contact for your oral health concerns.
If you’re looking for an experienced orthodontist in Long Beach, CA, visit Orthodontics of Long Beach. Their team of professionals is dedicated to providing the highest quality orthodontic care.
