Many people use the terms "dentist" and "orthodontist" interchangeably, thinking they refer to the same professional. Although both work in the field of dentistry and oral health, their roles and specializations are distinct. Understanding the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist is crucial to choosing the right professional for your needs.
A dentist: the general practitioner of dental care
The dentist is the health professional you consult for your general dental care. He or she is responsible for the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases and conditions affecting the teeth, gums and tissues of the mouth. His skills include :
- Preventive care : descalingWe offer a wide range of dental treatments, including polishing, fluoride application and oral hygiene advice.
- Caries treatment : fillings, crowns, inlays/onlays.
- Treatment of gum disease: gingivitis, periodontitis.
- Dental extractions : removal of impacted wisdom teeth, broken or infected teeth.
- Dental prostheses : crowns, bridges, full or partial dentures.
- Dental emergencies : dental pain, abscesses, broken teeth.
The dentist is your mouth's general practitioner. He's your first point of contact for all your oral problems.
An orthodontist: the specialist in dental alignment
Orthodontists specialize in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of malocclusions, i.e. abnormalities in the position of the teeth and jaws. His expertise in orthodontics focuses on :
- Tooth alignment : correction of misaligned, overlapped or gapped teeth.
- Correction of jaw problems : treatment of mismatches between the upper and lower jaws (prognathism, retrognathism).
- Improved masticatory function: good dental occlusion is essential for efficient chewing.
- Improved smile aesthetics: a harmonious smile contributes to self-esteem.
Orthodontists use a variety of appliances, such as fixed braces (bands), removable braces and clear aligners (like Invisalign), to correct malocclusions.
The difference: cow do I choose between a dentist and an orthodontist?
You will see a dentist for regular check-ups, treatment of cavities, gum disease, tooth extractions and dental surgery. dental emergencies.
You'll make an appointment with an orthodontist if you have misaligned teeth, jaw problems, chewing difficulties or if you want to improve the aesthetics of your smile. Your dentist can refer you to an orthodontic specialist if necessary.
Other dental specialties
There are general dentists and dental specialists. In Switzerland, the dental specializations officially recognized by the Swiss Society of Dentists (SSO) and the Swiss Medical Association (FMH) beyond orthodontics are :
Reconstructive (prosthetic) dentistry
The restoration of damaged or missing teeth using fixed (crowns, bridges) or removable prostheses. It also includes implantology. An FMH specialist title in Reconstructive dentistry is awarded.
Periodontology
Specialized in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of gum disease and tooth-supporting tissues. An FMH specialist title in Periodontology is awarded.
Endodontics
Focusing on the treatment of dental pulp (tooth nerve) and periapical tissue disorders. An FMH specialist title in Endodontics is awarded.
Oral and maxillofacial surgery
A surgical discipline that treats pathologies of the mouth, jaws and face. It is recognized as a medical specialization in its own right, with an FMH specialist title in Oral and maxillofacial surgery. It requires comprehensive medical training followed by specialization.
Pediatric dentistry (pedodontics)
Dedicated to children's dental care and adolescents. An FMH specialist title in Pediatric dentistry is awarded.
It is important to distinguish these FMH/SSO-recognized specializations from other areas of expertise or complementary training that some dentists may pursue. For example, cosmetic dentistry is not a fully-fledged FMH/SSO specialization in Switzerland, although many dentists offer aesthetic treatments. Similarly, implantology is generally practiced by specialists in reconstructive dentistry, but is not a separate specialization in its own right.
To check whether a practitioner holds an FMH specialist title, it is advisable to consult the FMH physician register.
Helvident: dental clinics and practices specializing in all treatments
Helvident clinics offer a full range of dental and orthodontic services to meet all your needs. If in doubt, we'll explain the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist. They are all qualified and use state-of-the-art technology to offer you high-quality care in a comfortable, welcoming environment. Don't hesitate to Contact us to book an appointment.
Dentists and orthodontists are two complementary professionals who contribute to your oral health. Understanding their respective roles enables you to choose the professional best suited to your needs, and benefit from the most appropriate care. At HelvidentWe put our expertise to work for your smile.
