What Is the Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist?

Oral health requires regular maintenance and care to keep it in optimal condition. Dentists and orthodontists help prevent and treat oral diseases like cavities, gum disease, and misaligned teeth. One professional specializes in correcting teeth and jaw alignment.

Here are the signs that you need to visit an orthodontist Florence KY, to help you maintain good oral health: 

Jaw Malalignment

A misaligned jaw can lead to several issues, such as chewing or speech issues. An orthodontist helps to diagnose and treat jaw malalignment. Treatments include methods such as braces, retainers, and other appliances. A dentist may also be able to identify jaw misalignment, but they may refer you to an orthodontist for specialized treatment.

Crooked or Crowded Teeth

Crooked or crowded teeth may affect the appearance of your smile, but it can also lead to oral health problems. They can make it difficult to clean your teeth and increase the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. An orthodontist florence ky can correct crooked or crowded teeth through braces, aligners, or other orthodontic devices.

Bite Issues

An improper bite can cause discomfort and pain while eating or speaking. The problem may persist and lead to wear and tear on your teeth without treatment, increasing the risk of tooth damage and other oral health issues. While a dentist may be able to identify bite problems, an orthodontist has specialized training in correcting them.

Gaps Between Teeth

Gaps between teeth can result from missing teeth or an issue with individual teeth sizes. It can make it difficult to chew properly and affect your confidence in your smile. An orthodontist can help close these gaps through various methods, such as braces, aligners, or dental implants.

Speech Difficulties

If you have difficulty chewing or speaking due to misaligned jaws or teeth, it can affect your ability to communicate and your quality of life. Orthodontic treatment can help align your jaw and teeth, improving your ability to chew food and speak clearly. The realignment of the teeth and jaw can reduce overbites, underbites, crossbites, and other related issues.

Irregular Loss of Baby Teeth

Children may lose their baby teeth earlier or later than expected. This can affect the development and eruption of permanent teeth. It can cause misalignment and other issues that may require orthodontic treatment to correct. Visiting an orthodontist can help with proper timing and guidance for your child’s dental development.

When to See a Dentist

Both professions help with general oral health issues. But you’ll want general practitioners specializing in diagnosing and treating oral diseases for regular care. Dentists help provide routine dental care, such as cleanings, fillings, and extractions. Some signs you need to visit a dentist include tooth pain or sensitivity, bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, or recurring canker sores.

Consider Visiting an Orthodontist Florence KY

Visiting an orthodontist in Florence KY, can help with various dental issues, such as misaligned teeth, speech difficulties, and irregular loss of baby teeth. They have the expertise to diagnose and treat these problems using braces or aligners. If you are experiencing any of these concerns, schedule a consultation with an orthodontist Florence KY, for your oral health needs.