Many dentists now offer clear aligners, which leads to a common question: should you see a dentist or an orthodontist to straighten your teeth? Both are valuable, but they are not the same. Understanding the difference helps you choose the right provider for your smile.
What is a dentist?
A general dentist is your primary oral health provider. They handle cleanings, fillings, crowns, gum care, and overall dental health. Dentists complete dental school and are essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy throughout life.
What is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dentist who completed several additional years of full-time specialty training focused exclusively on moving teeth and aligning jaws. That means thousands of extra hours dedicated to braces, aligners, bite correction, and facial growth. In short, every orthodontist is a dentist, but only a small percentage of dentists are orthodontists. Meet our specialists on the doctors page.
Why the difference matters for straightening teeth
- Specialized expertise: Orthodontists diagnose subtle bite and alignment issues that affect long-term health, not just appearance.
- Complex cases: Overbites, underbites, crossbites, crowding, and jaw concerns are the orthodontist's daily focus.
- Full range of tools: Orthodontists use braces, clear aligners, expanders, and functional appliances and know when each is best.
- Efficient, stable results: Specialist planning helps avoid relapse and protects the bite.
Learn more about why you should see an orthodontist and how to choose the best orthodontist in Greensboro.
Working together
The best outcomes happen when your dentist and orthodontist collaborate. Keep seeing your dentist for checkups and cleanings during treatment, while your orthodontist guides your teeth into their ideal position.
Frequently asked questions
Can a regular dentist do Invisalign?
Some dentists offer aligners, but orthodontists have specialty training to plan complex movements and manage your bite, which can improve results and predictability.
Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist?
No. You can schedule an orthodontic consultation directly, no referral required.
Is an orthodontist more expensive?
Costs are often comparable, and specialist care can save money by preventing avoidable complications and relapse.
Want specialist care for your smile? Book a free consultation with our board-trained orthodontists.