Choosing Who to See
Dentists and orthodontists both support oral health, but orthodontists focus on tooth movement, bite correction, braces, aligners, and retainers.
If you are comparing providers for braces or clear aligners, check clinical role, case complexity, treatment planning, supervision, and aftercare.
What Is a Dentist?
A dentist is a general dental practitioner registered with the General Dental Council (GDC). They are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of dental problems including tooth decay, gum disease, tooth extractions, fillings, crowns, and routine oral health checks.
Some dentists also offer basic orthodontic treatments such as simple clear aligner systems (e.g. Invisalign Lite) for mild cases, but they are not orthodontic specialists.
What Is an Orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed additional postgraduate training — typically a three-year specialist programme — in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. They are registered on the GDC specialist list.
Orthodontists focus exclusively on correcting tooth and bite alignment using braces, clear aligners, retainers, and other appliances. They treat more complex cases that a general dentist may not be trained to handle.
Key Differences
Training
Both complete a dental degree. Orthodontists then complete an additional 3-year specialist training programme recognised by the GDC.
Scope of Treatment
Dentists treat general oral health. Orthodontists specialise exclusively in alignment and bite correction using fixed and removable appliances.
Case Complexity
Dentists may handle mild cosmetic alignment. Complex bite problems, severe crowding, and surgical cases require an orthodontist or orthodontic specialist.
NHS Access
NHS orthodontic treatment is provided by orthodontic specialists, accessed via referral from your NHS dentist.
Private Treatment
Both dentists and orthodontists offer private braces or aligner treatment. An orthodontic specialist offers greater expertise for moderate to complex cases.
GDC Specialist Register
Check whether your provider is listed on the GDC Specialist Register for Orthodontics if you want confirmed specialist-level expertise.
When Should You See an Orthodontist?
For Complex Bite Problems
If you have a significant overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite — or severe crowding — an orthodontist is the appropriate specialist to assess and treat you.
For NHS Treatment
NHS orthodontic treatment is provided by specialists. You need a referral from your NHS dentist, who will assess whether you meet the IOTN threshold and refer you to a local NHS orthodontic practice.
For Fixed Braces
Fixed metal, ceramic, or lingual braces for moderate to complex cases are best placed and managed by an orthodontic specialist. Some dentists offer fixed braces for simple cases, but complex tooth movement and bite correction requires specialist oversight.
Not sure where to start? Use these quick links to explore orthodontic treatments, typical costs, and helpful guides that explain what different options involve. Whether you're researching braces or clear aligners, comparing pricing, or just getting a feel for what comes next, you can browse at your own pace and come back when you're ready to request a quote.
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