Dentist vs. Orthodontist

Medina Orthodontics

A question we often get asked is, “Can my general dentist give me braces?” The simple answer is no.

All orthodontists are dentists, but most dentists are not properly trained orthodontists. Orthodontists and dentists both help patients improve their oral health, but in different ways. Dentistry is a broad medical specialty that deals with the teeth, gum, nerves, and jaw, while orthodontics is a specialty within dentistry that focuses on correcting bites.

Orthodontists and dentists undertake the same training initially, but orthodontists, like Dr. Liana Medina, complete further training after they graduate from dental school to become qualified in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of orthodontic problems. Orthodontists specialize in helping patients with the alignment of their teeth, improving their bite, and fitting them for braces and other corrective devices. The benefits of having an orthodontist work on your smile goes beyond just having a beautiful smile. Well-aligned teeth make it possible to bite, chew and speak effectively.

Not everyone needs to have orthodontic treatment, but it may be required if you have any of the following issues:

Overbites: When your front teeth stick out over your lower teeth, you have an overbite.

Underbites: When lower teeth extend too far forward and your top teeth are too far back, you have an underbite.

Crossbites: When the upper teeth do not come down in front of the lower teeth properly, it creates an improper bite, or crossbite.

Spacing Issues: These include gaps or spaces between your teeth.

Crowding: When there are too many teeth for a limited amount of space, you can experience crowding.

Misplaced Midlines: This occurs when the centers of your upper and lower teeth are not aligned.

Wondering if you should see an orthodontic expert to improve your smile? Give Medina Orthodontics a call today.

Choose Your Orthodontic Look

Medina Orthodontics

A variety of orthodontic options exist today for people looking into getting braces. From traditional metal braces to Invisalign aligners, it can be a challenge to decide which choice is the best.

Silver Braces - These are the most common type of braces. Made of nickel-free high-grade steel, they are much smaller and more comfortable than silver braces of the past. Silver braces can correct a wide variety of issues, including jaw problems, crooked teeth, and bite misalignments. Silver braces are a proven method for getting a lifelong, healthy bite.

Soft Champagne Braces – The finish of these champagne-colored brackets blend perfectly with teeth. They are made of durable stainless steel with aesthetics that rival ceramic brackets. Their low profile and contoured design offer maximum comfort. Soft champagne braces are a popular choice for all ages.

Ceramic Braces - Made of a translucent tooth-colored material, ceramic braces are most popular among adult patients. Ceramic braces are designed to blend seamlessly into your smile and are difficult to see unless you are extremely near the patient's teeth. Ceramic braces are used to correct the same dental issues as metal braces and invisible aligners.

Clear Aligners - Unlike silver and ceramic braces, clear aligners, like Invisalign, use clear trays to help you achieve a straight smile. Because the aligner trays are clear, they are practically invisible to those around you. The clear aligner trays are removable, which means that when you need to take them out, you can. It also means that you can continue to take care of your teeth normally and continue to eat the wonderful foods you love. 

Which Orthodontic Treatment Option is Best for You? At Medina Orthodontics, our team is knowledgeable in all of the orthodontic treatment options available. We will recommend the treatment option that is best for you and your lifestyle. Book an initial consultation with Medina Orthodontics to talk about your options regarding orthodontic treatment. We look forward to speaking with you!