Orthodontist vs dentist: what’s the difference?

Q: Can a dentist do braces or Invisalign®?

Some general dentists do offer braces and Invisalign®, but they are not specialists in orthodontics. A Specialist Orthodontist has completed years of additional accredited training focused purely on moving teeth and correcting bites, which matters most for complex cases and predictable, stable results.

Q: Do I need a referral from my dentist to see an orthodontist?

No. You can book directly with an orthodontist — no referral is needed. At Straight Smiles you can book a free consultation with Dr Ed Karim yourself, and we're happy to work alongside your dentist.

Q: Is it better to get Invisalign® from an orthodontist or a dentist?

An orthodontist is trained specifically in tooth movement, so they can plan and manage Invisalign® across simple and complex cases. Dr Ed Karim is a Top 1%, Black Diamond Invisalign® provider, which reflects both his experience and his results.

Q: Do I still need to see my dentist during orthodontic treatment?

Yes. Keep up your regular check-ups and cleans with your general dentist throughout treatment. The two roles work hand in hand — your dentist looks after your overall oral health while your orthodontist straightens your teeth.

Q: How can I tell if someone is a Specialist Orthodontist?

A registered specialist has completed an accredited postgraduate qualification in orthodontics and is listed as a specialist on the AHPRA register. A dentist without that training can only claim a 'special interest' in orthodontics, not specialist status.

Orthodontists and dentists are both essential to your oral health, but they do very different jobs. In short: a dentist looks after the overall health of your teeth and gums, while an orthodontist is a specialist who has completed years of extra training to focus purely on straightening teeth and correcting bites. Every orthodontist first qualifies as a dentist – then specialises. Here’s exactly how the two roles differ, and when to see each.

Orthodontist vs dentist, at a glance

Use the comparison below to see how an orthodontist and a general dentist differ across qualifications, treatments and training.

The difference between an orthodontist and dentist

	Orthodontist	Dentist
Doctor of Dental Surgery (5 years)
Minimum of 3 years post-graduate training and exams
Master of Orthodontics (MOrth)(3 years)
Member of professional orthodontic bodies, e.g. the Australian Society of Orthodontists

	Orthodontist	Dentist
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.

	Orthodontist	Dentist
Is specifically trained to 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 that are demonstrate further commitment to promoting invisible orthodontic treatment.

Qualifications of an orthodontist

Orthodontics is a specialist arm of dentistry. A Specialist Orthodontist must first start as a general dentist, and then pursue at least two years of vocational training and three years of specialist postgraduate study to learn how to straighten smiles.

Only when this is completed is a Specialist Orthodontist qualified to look at the full picture of your teeth, jaws, and facial symmetry to create a custom treatment programme for you.

Unless a dentist has undergone this extensive training, they cannot ‘specialise’ in orthodontics, they can only claim to have a ‘special interest’ in orthodontics.

The Invisible Orthodontist Network

At Straight Smiles, we are members of The Invisible Orthodontist network (TIO). This is a global network of orthodontists who are committed to delivering our patients the best orthodontic result using invisible techniques.

We are highly experienced in Invisalign® treatment and regularly attend continuing education to stay up-to-date with discreet treatment methods for our patients.

Our commitment has been recognised in our status as Black Diamond Invisalign® providers. This places us in the top 1% of providers in the whole of Australia for Invisalign® treatment.

Why choose a Specialist Orthodontist for your treatment?

Some dentists offer braces or ‘fast orthodontic treatments.’ Unfortunately, these treatments cause more harm than good because they are generic (not customised for your smile).

Attempting orthodontic treatment with a general dentist can require a trip to an orthodontist afterwards! To protect the health of your teeth, it’s always best to visit a Specialist Orthodontist who has the expertise to safely and effectively shape your smile.

Why choose a Specialist Orthodontist for your treatment

Orthodontist or dentist – your questions answered

Can a dentist do braces or Invisalign®?

Do I need a referral from my dentist to see an orthodontist?

Is it better to get Invisalign® from an orthodontist or a dentist?

Do I still need to see my dentist during orthodontic treatment?

How can I tell if someone is a Specialist Orthodontist?

Ready to meet your Specialist Orthodontist?

Dr Ed Karim is a Specialist Orthodontist and Top 1% Invisalign® provider who has personally treated more than 4,000 cases. Book a free consultation to get his expert assessment and a clear treatment plan.

Book a free consultation