Book a consultation with an orthodontist Near You
Welcome to Orthonet, an Independent Network of Specialist Orthodontists
Choosing to undergo orthodontic treatment is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of both the benefits and costs. By exploring the various financing options available and seeking out practices that offer flexible payment plans, patients can find a solution that fits their budget while achieving the desired outcomes for their dental health and appearance.
To get started, click the marker on the map of a specialist orthodontist near you.
Choosing a specialist in orthodontics
What’s the difference between a dentist and a specialist orthodontist?
While both professionals are essential to dental health, patients with general dental needs can seek care from a dentist. However, those with specific concerns related to the alignment of their teeth or jaw should consult a specialist orthodontist for the most appropriate treatment.
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Dentists are primary care dental practitioners who diagnose, treat, and manage overall oral health care needs. Their scope of practice encompasses a wide range of dental services, including but not limited to:
• Routine dental examinations and cleanings
• Diagnosis and treatment of dental caries (cavities)
• Root canals
• Gum care
• Bridges, crowns, and veneers
• Dentures
• Basic orthodontic assessments in some casesDentists complete a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree programme in the United Kingdom, which typically lasts five years. Following their graduation, they are qualified to practice general dentistry.
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Specialist orthodontists, on the other hand, are dentists who have undertaken additional specialised training in the field of orthodontics after completing their general dental degree. Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities, such as:
• Misaligned teeth
• Crowding or spacing of teeth
• Overbite, underbite, and crossbite
• Jaw growth and development issuesTo become a specialist orthodontist in the United Kingdom, a dentist must complete an additional three years of full-time postgraduate training in orthodontics at an accredited university and pass the Membership in Orthodontics (MOrth) examination of the Royal College of Surgeons. After completing their specialist training, they must also be registered in the GDC’s Specialist List in Orthodontics to practice legally as a specialist orthodontist.
There is no waiting list for private patients
Meet your local Specialist orthodontists
Not all orthodontists are recognised as specialist orthodontists. The key difference lies in the formal recognition and registration with the General Dental Council (GDC) as a specialist, indicating a practitioner who has met specific standards of training, experience, and expertise in orthodontics.
Choosing a specialist orthodontist ensures you or your child receive care from an orthodontist whom the professional regulatory body has acknowledged for their advanced qualifications and proficiency in the field of orthodontics.
Frequently asked questions
Orthodontist vs Dentist
Whether addressing functional issues or seeking aesthetic improvements, orthodontic care plays a pivotal role in enhancing one's quality of life through improved oral health. Making the right decision is crucial.
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An orthodontist specialises in diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities. Their expertise lies in crafting bespoke treatment plans to align teeth, jaws, and lips, ensuring optimal function and aesthetics.
This branch of dentistry goes beyond mere appearances, focusing on enhancing oral health and the functionality of one's bite. Through a comprehensive understanding of facial growth and tooth movement, orthodontists employ various appliances, such as braces and aligners, to correct misalignments and promote overall oral well-being.
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While both orthodontists and dentists play crucial roles in maintaining oral health, their areas of expertise and services offered diverge significantly. Dentists cover a broad spectrum of oral health issues, including tooth decay, gum disease, and routine care. In contrast, orthodontists dedicate their practice to correcting teeth and jaw alignment issues.
The key distinction lies in their training: after completing dental school, orthodontists undergo additional years of specialised education in orthodontics, equipping them with the skills to manage complex alignment problems.
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To address qualifications, it's essential to understand that orthodontists and dentists both begin their careers with a foundational dental education. However, orthodontists receive further specialised training in their field, making them highly qualified in their area of expertise—orthodontics.
This additional training focuses on the intricacies of jaw function, facial growth, and the mechanics of moving teeth. Therefore, while not necessarily more qualified than dentists in all aspects of dental care, orthodontists hold a distinct edge in their specialisation.
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Consulting an orthodontist is advisable if you're experiencing issues related to the alignment of your teeth or jaw. Common signs that warrant a visit include difficulty in chewing or biting, crowded or unevenly spaced teeth, and jaw misalignment.
Early intervention by an orthodontist can not only improve oral function and aesthetics but also prevent long-term health issues related to speech impediments, gum disease, and wear on tooth enamel.
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Orthodontists offer a wide array of treatments tailored to correct various orthodontic issues. These include traditional braces, which are effective in treating complex alignment problems, and clear aligners, a discreet alternative favoured for minor adjustments.
Beyond these, orthodontic treatments may also encompass retainers for maintaining alignment post-treatment and more specialised appliances designed to correct jaw growth and tooth movement issues.
Each treatment plan is customised to meet the unique needs of the patient, ensuring optimal results in both function and appearance.
