An orthodontist is a specialist dental practitioner who prevents, diagnoses and treats dental and facial irregularities in growing and non-growing patients. Orthodontists were trained as dentists but have undergone a further 3 years full time board-certified speciality training to hold a speciality registration. Speciality registration can be verified by the health practitioner registers such as AHPRA in Australia.
Why see an orthodontist?
An orthodontist will work closely with your dentist, similar to how a cardiologist or dermatologist may work closely with a medical GP. Dentists are in the best position to detect dental or skeletal malocclusions early in children so any significant problems can be referred to an orthodontist for orthodontics or growth modification treatment. Dentists are also best placed to detect orthodontic problems in adults as these problems are intricately related to dental wear, functionality and smile aesthetics.
Orthodontists are specialists in orthodontic (teeth movement) and dento-facial orthopaedic (jaw bone and muscle movement) treatments to enable patients to have the most predictable and successful outcome.
Can dentists perform orthodontic treatment?
Some orthodontic problems can be managed by dentists, similar to a medical GP treating some simple heart disorders, however significant dental or skeletal problems especially those affecting growing children are best treated by an orthodontist.
Further information:
American Association of Orthodontists
