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When you have dental concerns, your regular dentist may suggest seeing a specialist. Two such specialists are orthodontists and prosthodontists. While both have advanced dental training, they focus on different aspects of oral health. Understanding the difference helps you choose the right care.

Key Takeaways

  • Orthodontists focus on straightening teeth and correcting bite and jaw alignment issues.
  • Prosthodontists specialize in restoring and replacing missing or damaged teeth.
  • The main difference is alignment versus restoration and replacement.
  • Missing or severely damaged teeth are treated by prosthodontists.
  • Crooked teeth or bite problems are treated by orthodontists.
  • Complex cases may require both specialists working together.

Why Understanding These Specialties Matters

General dentists handle routine dental care, but some problems require specialized expertise. Orthodontists and prosthodontists receive years of additional training to manage complex dental issues.

Knowing which specialist treats your concern saves time and ensures you receive the most effective care.

Orthodontist vs Prosthodontist: Key Differences

An orthodontist focuses on the alignment of teeth and jaws. They treat issues like crooked teeth, gaps, overcrowding, overbites, and underbites using braces, clear aligners, and retainers.

A prosthodontist focuses on restoring and replacing teeth that are missing, broken, or worn. They work with crowns, bridges, dentures, dental implants, and full mouth reconstructions.

Which Specialist Do You Need?

The right specialist depends on your main dental concern.

  • See an orthodontist if your teeth are crooked, crowded, or your bite is misaligned.
  • See a prosthodontist if you have missing, broken, or severely worn teeth.

In some cases, orthodontic treatment may be needed first, followed by prosthodontic restoration.

What to Expect During Treatment

Orthodontic treatment usually involves long-term care with braces or aligners and regular adjustments over months or years.

Prosthodontic treatment often involves customized restorations like crowns or implants, which may take several visits depending on complexity.

Long-Term Oral Health Benefits

Orthodontic care improves bite alignment, making teeth easier to clean and reducing long-term wear.

Prosthodontic care restores chewing function, prevents tooth shifting, and helps maintain jawbone health.

Final Thoughts

Orthodontists and prosthodontists play different but equally important roles in dental health. Orthodontists align teeth and bites, while prosthodontists restore and replace teeth. Your dentist can help guide you to the right specialist so you receive the best care for a healthy, confident smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a prosthodontist straighten teeth?

No, straightening teeth is handled by orthodontists. Prosthodontists focus on restoring or replacing teeth.

How long does treatment take?

Orthodontic treatment may take months or years. Prosthodontic treatment length depends on the type and complexity of restoration.

Can both specialists work together?

Yes, complex dental cases often require collaboration between orthodontists and prosthodontists.

What problems does an orthodontist treat?

Orthodontists treat crooked teeth, crowded teeth, gaps, and bite problems like overbites and underbites.