Dentist vs Orthodontist for Teeth Straightening: Pros and Cons Explained

Teeth straightening has become more accessible than ever. From traditional metal braces to nearly invisible clear aligners, patients now have multiple options—and multiple providers—to choose from. One of the most common questions people ask is: Should I see a dentist or an orthodontist for teeth straightening?

This decision can directly affect your treatment results, cost, and overall experience. In this in-depth guide, we’ll compare dentist vs orthodontist for teeth straightening, explain the pros and cons of each, and help you decide which professional is right for your smile. We’ll also show how DenScore makes it easy to find the best dentist or orthodontist near you in the United States.

Understanding Teeth Straightening

Teeth straightening, also called orthodontic treatment, corrects misaligned teeth, bite issues, crowding, spacing, and jaw irregularities. Straight teeth are not just about appearance; they also:

• Improve oral hygiene by making teeth easier to clean
• Reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease
• Improve bite function and speech
• Prevent uneven tooth wear
• Boost confidence and self-esteem

The key difference lies in who provides the treatment: a general dentist or a licensed orthodontist.

Who Is a Dentist?

A general dentist is a primary oral healthcare provider trained to diagnose, prevent, and treat a wide range of dental conditions.

Dentist Education & Training

• 4 years of dental school
• Licensed to practice general dentistry
• Broad knowledge of oral health

Dental Insurance / Coverage

• Many general dental procedures are covered by standard dental insurance plans
• Cosmetic teeth straightening (like clear aligners) may be partially or not covered depending on the plan
• Find the best Dental Insurance Plan on DenScore.

Many dentists pursue additional certifications in cosmetic dentistry or clear aligner therapy, allowing them to offer basic teeth straightening services.

Teeth Straightening Options Offered by Dentists

Dentists typically provide:

• Clear aligners (Invisalign, SureSmile, ClearCorrect)
• Minor orthodontic corrections
• Cosmetic alignment for adults

They usually do not handle complex bite or jaw problems.

Who Is an Orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses exclusively on diagnosing and correcting tooth and jaw alignment issues.

Orthodontist Education & Training

• 4 years of dental school
• 2–3 additional years of orthodontic residency
• Advanced training in facial growth, jaw alignment, and bite correction

This specialized training makes orthodontists experts in both simple and complex orthodontic cases.

Orthodontists Insurance / Coverage

• Orthodontic treatment (braces, clear aligners) may be partially covered by dental insurance
• Coverage varies for adults vs children; some plans only cover medically necessary corrections
• Check your plan for orthodontic benefits.

Teeth Straightening Options Offered by Orthodontists

Orthodontists can provide:

• Metal braces
• Ceramic braces
• Lingual braces
• Clear aligners
• Surgical orthodontics for severe cases

Dentist vs Orthodontist: Key Differences

Pros and Cons of Seeing a Dentist for Teeth Straightening

✅ Pros of Choosing a Dentist

1. Convenience
You can often receive teeth straightening from your regular dentist without visiting a specialist.

2. Lower Cost
Dentist-provided aligner treatments may cost less than orthodontic care.

3. Ideal for Mild Cases
Perfect for minor crowding, spacing, or cosmetic alignment.

4. Shorter Appointments
Clear aligner treatments usually require fewer in-office visits.

❌ Cons of Choosing a Dentist

1. Limited Expertise
Dentists lack advanced orthodontic training for complex cases.

2. Not Suitable for Severe Issues
Overbites, underbites, crossbites, and jaw problems often require an orthodontist.

3. Fewer Treatment Options
Most dentists only offer clear aligners, not braces.

Pros and Cons of Seeing an Orthodontist for Teeth Straightening

✅ Pros of Choosing an Orthodontist

1. Specialized Expertise
Orthodontists handle complex alignment, bite, and jaw issues with precision.

2. Comprehensive Treatment Options
From braces to aligners, orthodontists offer full-spectrum solutions.

3. Better Long-Term Results
Advanced planning reduces relapse and bite problems.

4. Ideal for Children and Teens
Orthodontists monitor facial growth and tooth eruption.

❌ Cons of Choosing an Orthodontist

1. Higher Cost
Specialist care can be more expensive.

2. More Appointments
Braces often require regular adjustments.

3. Separate Provider
You may need to visit both a dentist and orthodontist.

Cost Comparison: Dentist vs Orthodontist

Which Is Better for You?

Choose a Dentist If:

• Your teeth need minor straightening
• You prefer clear aligners
• You want lower costs
• Your bite is generally healthy

Choose an Orthodontist If:

• You have crowded, rotated, or overlapping teeth
• You have bite or jaw alignment problems
• You need braces
• You want the most precise long-term outcome

Dentist vs Orthodontist for Adults

Adults increasingly seek orthodontic care. Dentists often handle cosmetic adult alignment, while orthodontists manage functional and structural corrections.

For adults with mild concerns, a dentist may be sufficient. For adults with long-standing bite issues, orthodontists are usually the better choice.

Dentist vs Orthodontist for Kids and Teens

Children and teens benefit most from orthodontist-led care. Orthodontists can intervene early, guide jaw development, and prevent future complications.

While some dentists offer aligners for teens, orthodontists remain the gold standard for growing smiles.

How DenScore Helps You Find the Best Dentist or Orthodontist Near You

Choosing between a dentist and orthodontist is only half the journey. Finding a trusted, high-quality provider is just as important.

Why Use DenScore?

DenScore is a smart dental discovery platform designed to help people across the United States find:

• Best dentists near you
• Best orthodontists near you
• Verified providers
• Affordable treatment options
• Specialists based on your needs

What Makes DenScore Different?

• Nationwide provider coverage
• Data-backed dentist and orthodontist rankings
• Easy comparisons by location and specialty
• Patient-friendly recommendations
• DenScore free online dental locating tool near you

Whether you need a dentist for clear aligners or an orthodontist for braces, DenScore connects you with the right professional—fast and stress-free.

Final Verdict: Dentist or Orthodontist?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right choice depends on your alignment needs, budget, and long-term goals.

• Dentists are great for mild, cosmetic teeth straightening.
• Orthodontists are essential for complex alignment and bite correction.

No matter which provider you choose, DenScore ensures you find the best dentist or orthodontist near you, helping you make confident, informed decisions about your smile.

Ready to Find the Best Provider Near You?

Visit DenScore today to discover top-rated dentists and orthodontists across the United States, all in one trusted platform. Whether you’re looking for clear aligners, braces, or expert orthodontic care, DenScore helps you find the best dentist near you or the best orthodontist near you based on quality, expertise, and patient needs. Instead of guessing or scrolling through endless listings, DenScore simplifies your search with reliable recommendations. From routine alignment to complex orthodontic treatment, the right expert makes all the difference. Straightening your teeth is a long-term investment in your health and confidence—and DenScore ensures you choose a provider you can trust. Start your journey to a healthier, straighter smile with confidence today.