While orthodontics and general dentistry deal with dental care, they are different. Instead of general dentistry, orthodontics identifies and treats dental and facial irregularities.
This article contrasts orthodontics with general dentistry. It describes the most common orthodontic treatments and procedures for each category, as well as the cost and length of treatment. As a result, you can make more 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 dental subspecialty focusing on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontics is concerned with the alignment and function of the teeth and jaws, as opposed to general dentistry, which focuses on the patient’s oral health.
Orthodontic treatment is required when there are issues with the alignment of the teeth and jaws, which can lead to various dental and health problems. These include speech and chewing difficulties, periodontal disease, tooth decay, and jaw pain. Orthodontic treatment can help to correct these issues by straightening the teeth, improving the bite, and creating a more attractive smile.
The following are some of the most standard orthodontic treatment in Suwanee for correcting dental and facial irregularities:
- Traditional Braces
- Clear Braces
- Lingual Braces
- Self-Ligating Braces
- Invisalign
- Retainers
- Palatal Expander
- Headgear
The orthodontist will recommend a treatment plan based on the patient’s specific needs and the severity of their dental and facial irregularities. Genetics, tooth decay, trauma, and other factors can contribute to these conditions.
General Dentistry
General dentistry includes many procedures and treatments to improve a patient’s oral health. They treat tooth decay, replace missing teeth, and repair damaged teeth. All of these procedures are designed to enhance the patient’s oral health.
Here are some of the most common treatments in 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
If you have damaged or missing teeth, crowns and bridges solutions are two common dental treatments that can help you achieve this goal.
Emergency Dental Service
Patients who experience severe dental problems or trauma after regular business hours can receive prompt and efficient care from emergency dental services. Dentists in general practice and other dental specialists who are qualified to identify and handle dental emergencies work in these facilities. Consult your dentist for more information.
How Can You Tell if a Dentist Is Skilled in Orthodontics?
Dentists can provide some orthodontic treatments, but only orthodontists have the specialized training and education to diagnose and treat dental and facial irregularities. Following dental school, orthodontists receive an additional two to three years of orthodontic training and are recognized by the American Dental Association as orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics specialists.
Orthodontists have more advanced training and experience than general dentists. An orthodontist should treat complex orthodontic cases to achieve the best possible outcome.
How Much Do These Treatments Cost?
Orthodontic treatment costs vary according to the type of treatment, the dental issue’s severity, and the dental office’s location. Traditional braces cost between $2,500 and $8,000, while Invisalign costs between $3,000 and $8,000. This is a ballpark figure that could be lower or higher. For a more accurate estimate, always consult your dentist.
Remember that your insurance may cover some of your orthodontic treatment costs. Call your insurance company beforehand to see if you are covered. Furthermore, many dental clinics provide flexible and convenient weekly or monthly payment options.
How Long Will the Treatments Last?
Orthodontic treatment duration varies depending on the treatment chosen and the severity of the dental issue. Traditional braces typically take 18 months to three years to complete, whereas Invisalign takes six months to two years. Patients should discuss the duration of treatment with their orthodontist before beginning the procedure.
Conclusion
Orthodontic treatment can significantly improve your smile’s appearance, functionality, and overall health. There is a solution for every patient’s specific needs among the available treatment options. For the best possible outcome, complex cases should be treated by a certified orthodontist with the necessary training and experience. Although the cost and duration of treatment may vary, the benefits of a straighter, healthier smile are immeasurable.