What Does an Orthodontist Do?

For many parents, the first referral to an orthodontist raises a natural question: what does an orthodontist do that a regular dentist does not? 

Both professionals play important roles in a child's oral health, but they serve very different purposes. Understanding the distinction helps parents feel more confident navigating their child's care and knowing who to turn to for which concerns.

What Does an Orthodontist Do?

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed dental school followed by an additional two to three years of specialized residency training focused exclusively on the diagnosis, prevention, and correction of misaligned teeth and jaws. 

While a general dentist or pediatric dentist focuses on the overall health of the teeth and gums, an orthodontist focuses specifically on how the teeth fit together, how the jaw develops, and how alignment affects both function and appearance.

The core of orthodontic care involves guiding teeth into proper positions through the controlled application of gentle, sustained pressure using appliances such as braces, clear aligners, retainers, and expanders. In doing this, an orthodontist addresses concerns that range from simple crowding to complex bite problems and jaw discrepancies that, if left untreated, can affect chewing, speech, and long-term dental health.

Orthodontist vs Dentist: Understanding the Difference

The role of a dentist and the role of an orthodontist overlap in their shared goal of supporting oral health, but they approach it differently. A dentist manages the day-to-day health of the teeth and gums, including cleanings, fillings, extractions, and routine monitoring of development. An orthodontist takes over when the alignment and positioning of the teeth or jaw needs to be actively corrected.

Most children see a dentist or pediatric dentist first and are referred to an orthodontist when a concern is identified. 

For a more detailed comparison of these two roles and how they work together in a child's overall care, our article on the difference between a dentist and orthodontist is a helpful resource.

What Conditions Does an Orthodontist Treat?

Orthodontists treat a wide range of conditions that affect the alignment of the teeth and the relationship between the upper and lower jaws. Some of the most common concerns include:

• Crowding, where there is not enough space in the mouth for all the teeth to erupt properly.

• Spacing, where gaps between teeth are larger than expected.

• Overbite, where the upper front teeth extend too far over the lower teeth.

• Underbite, where the lower teeth protrude in front of the upper teeth.

• Crossbite, where some upper teeth sit behind the lower teeth when the mouth is closed.

• Open bite, where the upper and lower teeth do not make contact in the front when biting down.

Addressing these concerns during childhood and adolescence, when the jaws and teeth are still developing, typically produces the best outcomes. 

This is why early evaluation and timely referral to an orthodontist can make a meaningful difference in the scope and complexity of treatment needed.

What Appliances Does an Orthodontist Use?

Orthodontists use a range of appliances to move teeth and guide jaw development. The right appliance depends on the specific concern being addressed and the patient's age, compliance level, and clinical needs.

Braces

Traditional metal braces consist of brackets bonded to each tooth and connected by wires that are periodically adjusted to apply progressive pressure. They are highly effective for a broad range of alignment concerns and remain one of the most widely used orthodontic treatments for children and teens.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are a series of removable, custom-made plastic trays that gradually shift the teeth into alignment. They are a popular choice for older children and teens who prefer a less visible option and are responsible enough to wear the aligners for the required number of hours each day.

Retainers

Retainers are used after active orthodontic treatment to hold the teeth in their new positions while the surrounding bone and tissue stabilize. They are a critical part of long-term success and are typically worn nightly for an extended period after braces or aligners are completed.

Palate Expanders and Other Appliances

Orthodontists also use palate expanders, habit-breaking appliances, headgear, and other devices to address specific developmental concerns. Many of these are most effective when used during childhood, when the bones of the jaw are still growing and most responsive to guidance.

When Should My Child See an Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. At this age, a child has enough permanent teeth for an orthodontist to assess the development of the bite and identify any concerns that might benefit from early intervention. Most children do not need treatment at this age, but an early evaluation provides valuable information and allows treatment to begin at the most advantageous time if it is needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist?

In many cases, a referral from a general dentist or pediatric dentist is how families first connect with an orthodontist. However, parents can also schedule an orthodontic evaluation directly without a referral. If you have concerns about your child's alignment or bite, reaching out to a pediatric orthodontic practice is always a reasonable first step.

Can an orthodontist also handle dental emergencies?

Orthodontists specialize in alignment and jaw development rather than general dental health, so dental emergencies like toothaches, cavities, or infections are typically managed by a general dentist or pediatric dentist. If an orthodontic appliance like a bracket or wire is causing discomfort or has been damaged, that is a concern to bring to the orthodontist directly.

Does my child need to see both a dentist and an orthodontist?

Yes, and ideally both relationships are maintained throughout orthodontic treatment. Regular dental visits for cleanings and checkups continue during orthodontic care, since braces and other appliances make thorough home cleaning more challenging. The dentist and orthodontist each serve a distinct role and work together to support your child's complete oral health.

What is the difference between an orthodontist and a pediatric orthodontist?

A pediatric orthodontist is an orthodontist who has chosen to focus their practice exclusively on children and teens. 

Beyond the standard orthodontic training, they bring experience specific to working with young patients, including knowledge of child development, behavior management, and the unique concerns that arise during childhood and adolescence. 

Practices like Kidco Dental specialize in this child-centered approach.

The Right Care at the Right Time

Understanding what does an orthodontist do clarifies why this type of specialist plays such an important role in a child's overall dental care. By addressing alignment and jaw development during the years when those structures are most responsive to treatment, orthodontic care sets children up for healthier teeth, better function, and greater confidence as they grow. 

The team at Kidco Dental is here to guide your family through every stage of that journey.