Understanding the Key Roles in Your Oral Health Journey
When it comes to caring for your smile, knowing whether to visit a dentist or an orthodontist can make a big difference in your treatment plan. At Alamo City Orthodontics, we often meet patients who aren’t quite sure where the line is drawn between these two important providers—and that’s okay!
In this guide, we’ll break it down simply so you can feel confident about choosing the right specialist for your needs.
What Does a Dentist Do?
A dentist is your primary oral healthcare provider—similar to how a general physician is your go-to for overall health.
🦷 Dentists Handle:
- Routine cleanings and exams
- Cavity detection and dental fillings
- Tooth extractions
- Preventive care like fluoride treatments and sealants
- Gum health and oral hygiene advice
Dentists are often the first step in your dental journey and may refer you to specialists like orthodontists for more complex issues such as misaligned teeth or jaw development problems.
Need a refresher on how oral hygiene habits support your long-term smile goals? Check out our post:
👉 How to Catch Issues Early with Orthodontic Screenings
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist with advanced training in diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws.
After completing dental school, orthodontists go through 2–3 additional years of residency to gain expertise in:
- Braces (metal and clear braces)
- Invisalign® and clear aligners
- Jaw growth guidance for kids and teens
- Bite correction for overbite, underbite, or crossbite
- Retainers and long-term retention options
In short, if your concern is related to the alignment of teeth or jaws, an orthodontist is your best bet.
Education and Training: Dentist vs. Orthodontist
At Alamo City Orthodontics, our care is led by Dr. Dakota Miller, a board-certified orthodontist with specialized training in orthodontic care for both children and adults. Learn more about what sets board-certified care apart here:
👉 Why Choose a Board-Certified Orthodontist
How Dentists and Orthodontists Work Together
Dentists and orthodontists are not competitors—they’re collaborators.
Often, your family dentist will refer you to an orthodontist for evaluation once they detect:
- Crowding or spacing
- Early bite issues in children
- Jaw misalignment that may affect chewing or speaking
- Teeth that are shifting back after braces
At Alamo City Orthodontics, we frequently coordinate with general and pediatric dentists across San Antonio, Alamo Heights, Castle Hills, Olmos Park, and surrounding areas to ensure our patients receive comprehensive care from start to finish.
When Should You See an Orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic checkup by age 7. This allows specialists to monitor jaw development and intervene early if needed.
However, it’s never too late. Many of our adult patients come to us for:
- Smile enhancement with discreet Invisalign for Adults
- Retreatment for teeth that shifted years after braces
- Custom retainers to maintain a newly straightened smile
Why Choose Alamo City Orthodontics?
We’re more than an orthodontic practice—we’re part of your neighborhood.
Located just off Northwest Loop 410, Alamo City Orthodontics is proud to serve the North East ISD community, including families near Nimitz Middle School, Eisenhower Middle School, and more.
Our services include:
Schedule Your Complimentary Consultation Today
Still wondering whether you need a dentist or an orthodontist?
Let’s talk about it—our consultations include digital imaging, a full exam, and a custom treatment plan built just for you or your child.
📍 Visit us at 1100 Northwest Loop 410 #560, San Antonio, TX 78213
📞 Call 210-405-2599 or
💬 Book online at www.alamocityorthodontics.com
