When it comes to caring for your teeth, it is easy to get confused about whether you should see a dentist or an orthodontist. Both play important roles in maintaining oral health, but they focus on different areas of care. Understanding who does what can help you make smarter decisions for your teeth and overall wellbeing.
If you are looking for professional guidance and treatment in Melbourne, a dentist in Preston can often provide general dental care and refer you to a specialist orthodontist if needed. Knowing when to see each one can save you time, money and discomfort in the long run.
What Does a Dentist Do?
Dentists are primary care providers for oral health. They diagnose and treat issues with teeth, gums and the mouth. A general dentist is who you would normally see for regular check-ups, cleanings, fillings, crowns, root canals and advice on daily oral hygiene.
Common Services Offered by Dentists
Routine check-ups and cleansDental fillings for cavitiesTooth extractionsRoot canal therapyCrowns, bridges and veneersOral cancer screeningGum disease treatmentPreventive care and oral hygiene advice
A general dentist Preston will look after your everyday dental needs. They focus on preventing problems and managing minor to moderate oral issues before they become more serious.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
An orthodontist is a type of dental specialist who focuses on correcting irregularities in the teeth and jaw. They receive additional training after dental school to deal with complex alignment issues. If your teeth are crowded, your bite is off or your jaw is misaligned, an orthodontist is the right professional to see.
Common Services Offered by Orthodontists
Braces for children and adultsClear aligners such as InvisalignRetainers and spacersJaw alignment correctionTreatment for bite issues (overbite, underbite, crossbite)Facial growth management in younger patients
Orthodontists work closely with general dentists to make sure patients get the right kind of care at the right time. In most cases, you will be referred to an orthodontist by your regular dentist.
Key Differences Between a Dentist and an Orthodontist
While both dentists and orthodontists are trained in oral health, their roles and training are different. Dentists provide general care for your teeth and gums, while orthodontists focus specifically on aligning teeth and correcting bites.
Understanding these differences helps you make informed decisions about who to see for your particular needs.
When to See a Dentist
You should see your dentist every six months for a regular check-up and clean. It is also important to book an appointment if you notice any of the following:
Tooth pain or sensitivityBleeding or swollen gumsBad breath that does not go awayA cracked or broken toothCavities or visible holes in teethJaw pain or clicking
If you are based in the northern suburbs of Melbourne, booking an appointment with a trusted dentist in Preston ensures you get prompt and professional care close to home.
When to See an Orthodontist
You should consider seeing an orthodontist if:
Your teeth are crooked or crowdedYou have gaps between your teethYou have difficulty biting or chewingYou have an overbite or underbiteYour jaw feels out of place or makes noisesYou want cosmetic teeth straightening options like Invisalign
Children as young as seven can benefit from an early orthodontic assessment, especially if issues are visible. Adults who missed out on braces when younger can still benefit from treatment too.
Can a Dentist Provide Orthodontic Treatment?
Some general dentists offer basic orthodontic treatments like clear aligners for mild alignment issues. However, for more complex cases, a referral to an orthodontist is usually recommended. Orthodontists have the training and tools to deal with more involved cases and are up to date with the latest techniques and technologies.
If your dentist in Preston offers orthodontic consultations, they can help you assess whether you are suitable for in-house care or need to see a specialist.
Making the Right Choice for Your Oral Health
Choosing between a dentist and an orthodontist depends on your individual dental needs. For regular cleanings, fillings, tooth pain or gum concerns, a dentist is your go-to professional. If your concern is with how your teeth are positioned or how your bite fits together, then an orthodontist is the better choice.
Ideally, both professionals work together to provide you with a complete care plan. Your dentist can monitor your general oral health and refer you to an orthodontist when more specialised treatment is needed.
Dentists and orthodontists each bring unique skills to the table. While a dentist helps maintain your day-to-day oral health, an orthodontist can correct alignment problems for a better bite and straighter smile. Understanding who to see and when can make all the difference in your dental journey.
If you鈥檙e looking to start with general care or are unsure which professional you need, a local dentist is a great first step. With regular visits and the right advice, you can stay ahead of dental issues and enjoy a healthier, more confident smile for years to come.