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Orthodontist or dentist
Orthodontists and dentists are both vital to the health of your smile – but they have very different roles. Read on to learn how Dr Karim can work with your general dentist to protect the health of your smile.
The difference between an orthodontist and dentist
Here is a simple chart to help you understand the differences between these dental professions.
| Orthodontist | Dentist | |
|---|---|---|
| Doctor of Dental Surgery (5 years) | ||
| Minimum of 3 years post-graduate training and exams | ||
| Master of Orthodontics (MOrth)(3 years) | ||
| Member of professional orthodontic bodies, eg. British Orthodontic Society |
| Orthodontist | Dentist | |
|---|---|---|
| General 6-month check up | ||
| Fillings & extractions | ||
| Cleaning & polishing | ||
| Advises on overall oral health of teeth and gums | ||
| Fitting of orthodontic appliances, such as braces & Invisalign aligners | Some general dentists may fit braces and Invisalign but they are not specialists in orthodontics. |
| Orthodontist | Dentist | |
|---|---|---|
| Is specifically trained to in the movement of teeth and bite issues | ||
| Recommends and treats patients after assessing overall facial profile | ||
| Uses the latest in orthodontic technology for the benefit of patients | ||
| Attends regular training on developments in the orthodontic industry | ||
| Is a member of The Invisible Orthodontist (TIO) Network | Not all orthodontists are members of TIO but those that are demonstrate further commitment to promoting invisible orthodontic treatment. |
Qualifications of an orthodontist
Orthodontics is a specialist arm of dentistry. A Specialist Orthodontist must first start as a general dentist, and then pursue at least two years of vocational training and three years of specialist postgraduate study to learn how to straighten smiles.
Only when this is completed is a Specialist Orthodontist qualified to look at the full picture of your teeth, jaws, and facial symmetry to create a custom treatment programme for you.
Unless a dentist has undergone this extensive training, they cannot ‘specialise’ in orthodontics, they can only claim to have a ‘special interest’ in orthodontics.
The Invisible Orthodontist Network
At Straight Smiles, we are members of The Invisible Orthodontist network (TIO). This is a global network of orthodontists who are committed to delivering our patients the best orthodontic result using invisible techniques.
We are highly experienced in Invisalign® treatment and regularly attend continuing education to stay up-to-date with discreet treatment methods for our patients.
Our commitment has been recognised in our status as Black Diamond Invisalign® providers. This places us in the top 1% of providers in the whole of Australia for Invisalign® treatment.
Why choose a Specialist Orthodontist for your treatment?
Some dentists offer braces or ‘fast orthodontic treatments.’ Unfortunately, these treatments cause more harm than good because they are generic (not customised for your smile).
Attempting orthodontic treatment with a general dentist can require a trip to an orthodontist afterwards! To protect the health of your teeth, it’s always best to visit a Specialist Orthodontist who has the expertise to safely and effectively shape your smile.
Ready to meet your Specialist Orthodontist?
Dr Karim has over 12 years of experience shaping smiles of all ages, and is one of the leading Invisalign® providers in Australia. See what his expertise can do for your smile at your free consultation.
Book a free consultation