What Is the Real Difference Between Orthodontists and Dentists?
Reviewed by Dr. Amir Davoody, board-certified orthodontist (ABO Diplomate).
Many people in Houston are not sure whether to see a dentist or an orthodontist when they notice a concern with their smile. Both improve oral health, but their training and focus differ, and knowing the difference helps you choose the right care. At Davoody & Hablinski Orthodontics, Dr. Amir Davoody is a specialist orthodontist focused on straightening teeth and creating a healthy bite.
What does a dentist do?
Dentists are your primary oral-health providers, handling preventive care and everyday concerns. After college, they complete about four years of dental school covering general oral health: cleanings and preventive care, fillings and crowns, gum-disease treatment, extractions, and root canals. Their role is to keep your mouth healthy day to day.
What does a specialist orthodontist do?
Orthodontists focus on alignment and bite. After dental school, they complete two to three additional years of specialty training devoted entirely to tooth alignment, bite correction, jaw growth, braces, and clear aligners. At our practice, that includes metal and ceramic braces, Invisalign, treatment for children, teens, and adults, and deeper focus areas like airway and surgical orthodontics.
How they work together
Dentists and orthodontists are a team. Yes, you should keep seeing your dentist for cleanings and checkups during orthodontic treatment, whether you have braces or aligners, to prevent cavities and gum issues. And no, an orthodontist does not replace your dentist; orthodontists provide alignment-based care but do not perform routine dental procedures.
Key differences at a glance
| Feature | Dentist | Orthodontist |
| — | — | — |
| Primary focus | Overall oral health | Tooth and jaw alignment |
| Schooling | Dental school | Dental school plus specialty training |
| Services | Cleanings, fillings, crowns | Braces, aligners, bite correction |
| Best for | General dental care | Correcting alignment and bite |
| Specialty status | No | Yes, orthodontic specialist |
Why see a specialist?
Orthodontic treatment affects how teeth and jaws function, so the advanced training of a specialist supports precise, predictable results. Dr. Davoody is a board-certified ABO Diplomate, and he uses that training to design plans tailored to each patient’s smile, for all ages.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference? Dentists handle overall oral health; orthodontists specialize in straightening teeth and correcting bites.
Do orthodontists have more training? Yes, dental school plus two to three years of orthodontic specialty training.
Should I still see my dentist during treatment? Yes, regular cleanings and exams remain important.
When should I see an orthodontist? For crooked teeth, crowding, spacing, bite problems, or jaw concerns.
Ready to improve your smile?
If you want a straighter smile or your child needs bite correction, we are here to help. Schedule your consultation today.
Davoody & Hablinski Orthodontics
5311 Kirby Dr Ste 209, Houston, TX 77005
Phone: (713) 521-2727
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re unsure whether to visit a dentist or an orthodontist, here are answers to some common questions about their roles and specialties.
What is the main difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?
Dentists treat overall oral health, while orthodontists specialize in straightening teeth and correcting bite issues.
Do orthodontists have more training than dentists?
Yes. Orthodontists complete dental school plus two to three extra years of specialty orthodontic training.
Should I still see my dentist during orthodontic treatment?
Yes. Regular dental cleanings and exams are important during braces or Invisalign treatment.
Can a dentist provide braces or Invisalign?
Some dentists offer orthodontic care, but orthodontists have advanced training focused on tooth movement and bite correction.
When should I see an orthodontist instead of a dentist?
See an orthodontist for crooked teeth, crowding, spacing, bite problems, or jaw alignment concerns.