Think an orthodontist could help your smile?
If it seems like your smile could benefit from orthodontic treatment, book in a free consultation with one of our skilled Specialist Orthodontists and we’ll pair you with the right plan for you.
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We will be closed from Friday 23rd December and will re-open on Friday 3rd January with limited access to emails and telephone calls on Friday 27th and Monday 30th December. In an emergency please contact the Emergency Dental Practice in Central London on 0207 935 5559, but please be aware that there will be a charge for their services. We wish you and your families a safe and very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Orthodontists vs dentists
If you’re unhappy with your smile, it’s time to call in the professionals. But, who do you call?
While Specialist Orthodontists have gone through the same dental training as dentists, orthodontists and dentists don’t practice the same things. A Specialist Orthodontist has gone on to complete 2-3 years of additional specialised training to learn how to straighten your smile.
Both dentists and orthodontists are skilled at taking care of your teeth, but this chart helps break down their distinct roles:
| Orthodontist | Dentist | |
|---|---|---|
| Qualifications & Memberships | ||
| Bachelor of Dental Surgery (5 years) | ✔ | ✔ |
| Master of Orthodontics (MOrth) (3 years) | ✔ | |
| General Dental Council Registered Specialist in Orthodontics | ✔ | |
| Membership of professional orthodontic bodies, eg. British Society of Orthodontists | ✔ | ✔ |
| Treatments & Services | ||
| General 6-month check up | ✔ | |
| Fillings & extractions | ✔ | |
| Cleaning & polishing | ✔ | |
| Advises on overall oral health of teeth and gums | ✔ | ✔ |
| Fitting of orthodontic appliances, such as braces & Invisalign aligners | ✔ | Some general dentists may fit braces and Invisalign but they are not specialists in orthodontics |
| Experience & training | ||
| Is specifically trained in the movement of teeth and bite issues | ✔ | |
| Recommends and treats patients after assessing overall facial profile | ✔ | |
| Uses the latest in orthodontic technology for the benefit of patients | ✔ | |
| Attends regular training on developments in the orthodontic industry | ✔ | |
| Is a member of The Invisible Orthodontist (TIO) Network | Not all orthodontists are members of TIO but those who are demonstrate further commitment to promoting invisible orthodontic treatment. | |
Source: The Invisible Orthodontist
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