By Eng Orthodontics — Brighton | Reunion | Fort Morgan | Arvada
When it comes to achieving a beautiful, healthy smile, you might wonder whether you should see a dentist or an orthodontist. While both play essential roles in your oral health, their specialties, training, and treatment goals are quite different. Understanding these distinctions can help you make informed decisions about your dental care — especially when it comes to braces, Invisalign®, and other orthodontic treatments.
Dentists vs. Orthodontists: The Basics
A dentist is a general oral health professional who focuses on maintaining healthy teeth, gums, and mouth. Dentists handle everything from cleanings and fillings to crowns, root canals, and gum disease prevention.
An orthodontist, on the other hand, is a dentist who has completed additional years of specialized training in diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. They are experts in creating balanced, functional, and beautiful smiles through orthodontic treatments like braces, Invisalign®, retainers, and other corrective devices.
Education and Training
- Dentist:
After earning an undergraduate degree, a dentist completes four years of dental school to receive a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery) or DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine). - Orthodontist:
An orthodontist completes dental school plus 2–3 additional years of advanced residency training focused exclusively on orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. This extra education hones their expertise in aligning teeth and correcting bite irregularities.
Areas of Focus
| Dentist | Orthodontist |
| Routine checkups & cleanings | Braces (metal, ceramic, lingual) |
| Fillings & crowns | Invisalign® clear aligners |
| Tooth extractions | Retainers & space maintainers |
| Gum health | Bite correction (overbite, underbite, crossbite) |
| Preventive care | Jaw alignment & facial balance |
When to See an Orthodontist
You should schedule an orthodontic evaluation if you notice any of the following:
- Crooked or crowded teeth
- Overbite, underbite, or crossbite
- Gaps between teeth
- Difficulty chewing or speaking due to jaw alignment
- Thumb-sucking habits beyond early childhood
At Eng Orthodontics, we recommend an orthodontic screening for children around age 7, as this is when early issues can be detected and treated before they become more complex.
Collaborative Care
Dentists and orthodontists often work hand-in-hand. Your dentist may refer you to an orthodontist for specialized treatment, and your orthodontist will collaborate with your dentist to ensure your teeth remain clean and healthy throughout orthodontic care. Together, they form a complete team focused on your long-term oral health and confidence.
Q&A: Orthodontist vs. Dentist
Q: Do I need a referral from my dentist to see an orthodontist?
A: No referral is required! You can schedule a consultation directly with Eng Orthodontics to discuss your options for braces or Invisalign®.
Q: Can my dentist straighten my teeth with aligners?
A: Some dentists offer clear aligners, but orthodontists have specialized training to manage complex bite and alignment cases. Seeing an orthodontist ensures your treatment is tailored and closely monitored for the best results.
Q: How often should I visit my orthodontist during treatment?
A: Typically, every 6–8 weeks. These visits allow your orthodontist to make adjustments and track your progress to keep treatment on schedule.
Q: What age is best to start orthodontic treatment?
A: While age 7 is ideal for the first screening, treatment can begin at any age — from children to adults. Eng Orthodontics offers personalized plans for every stage of life.
Q: How long does orthodontic treatment usually take?
A: Most treatments last between 12 and 24 months, depending on the complexity of your case and the type of appliance used.
Why Choose Eng Orthodontics
At Eng Orthodontics, our experienced team — Dr. Albert Eng, Dr. Ashlynn Schiro, Dr. Jared Error, and Dr. Shane Hoelz — is dedicated to creating healthy, confident smiles across Colorado. With advanced technology, flexible treatment options, and a friendly, patient-centered approach, we make orthodontic care comfortable and rewarding for every patient.
Contact Eng Orthodontics
Brighton Office
📞 (303) 498-0351
Reunion Office
📞 (303) 498-0351
Fort Morgan Office
📞 (970) 542-2500
Arvada Office
📞 (720) 800-9331
Your smile deserves expert care.
Whether you’re curious about braces, Invisalign®, or just wondering if your child is ready for their first orthodontic visit, Eng Orthodontics is here to guide you every step of the way. Schedule your consultation today — and discover the difference true orthodontic expertise can make.