Orthodontist vs Dentist

What’s the difference?

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All orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists.

Dentists and orthodontists share a common goal — maintaining oral health — but they specialize in different areas.

What does a Dentist do?

A dentist is the professional who takes care of the overall health of your teeth and gums.
They are the one you visit for cleanings, fillings, check-ups, or tooth pain.

They specialize in:● Dental check-ups & cleanings● Fillings & cavity treatments● Gum disease treatments● Tooth extractions● Crowns & bridges● Cosmetic procedures (e.g., porcelain veneers, etc)
Years of study:5 years (Bachelor’s Degree in Dentistry)

What does an Orthodontist do?

An orthodontist is a dentist with an additional 3 years of specialized training exclusively in orthodontics — the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of irregularities in the position of the teeth and jaws.

They specialize in:● Straightening teeth with braces or aligners● Bite problems (e.g., overbite, crossbite)● Jaw irregularities● Use of orthodontic appliances: braces, aligners, and other functional devices
Years of study:5 years (Dentistry) + 3 years of specialization in Orthodontics

Why is it important to choose an orthodontist?

Treatment with braces or clear aligners is not just about aesthetics.
It’s about proper bite function, speech, chewing, and the long-term health of the teeth and jaws.

An orthodontist has the knowledge and experience to create a safe, personalized treatment plan tailored to each patient’s needs.

Attention!
Attention!

Do not trust orthodontic treatments provided by non-orthodontists. Poor treatment can cause permanent damage to the teeth and jaws.

Use the “Find an Orthodontist” feature on our website to locate a member of the Cyprus Orthodontic Society.