Orthodontist vs. Dentist: Who Should Straighten My Teeth?
An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed extra years of specialty training focused on moving teeth and guiding jaw growth. A general dentist can offer some tooth-straightening services, but an orthodontist’s whole practice centers on this work. For many Henderson families, that focus is the reason to choose a specialist.
If you’re comparing options for yourself or your child, the question is a fair one. Both kinds of providers care about healthy smiles. This post explains how their training differs, what American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) certification means, and how to feel confident about who supervises your care.
What Is the Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist?
A general dentist looks after your overall oral health. That includes cleanings, fillings, gum care, and checkups for kids, teens, and adults.
An orthodontist is a dentist who then completes an additional, approved residency program in orthodontics. That training centers on how teeth move, how jaws grow, and how a bite fits together. Think of it like a family doctor and a heart specialist. Both are physicians, but each plays a different role.
Every orthodontist is a dentist. Most dentists are not orthodontists.
Why Does Specialist Training Matter for Braces and Invisalign?
Moving teeth changes more than how a smile looks. It affects how you bite, chew, and clean your teeth for years to come.
An orthodontist plans treatment by looking at the full picture, including tooth position, jaw alignment, and growth in younger patients. That planning helps shape your braces or Invisalign clear aligners (removable, nearly invisible trays that move teeth step by step) around your unique needs.
Treatment recommendations always depend on the individual patient. No single option suits everyone, and a specialist can help you weigh the choices.
What Does American Board of Orthodontics Certification Mean?
Board certification is a voluntary step that orthodontists take beyond their training and licensing. The ABO is the specialty’s certifying organization. The process generally includes a written exam, a review of treated patient cases, and ongoing renewal over time.
Both Dr. David Chenin and Dr. Stephen Chenin are certified by the ABO. That tells you each doctor has gone through this added review of knowledge and real patient results. It’s one more way to feel sure about who guides your smile journey.
Which Orthodontist Should I Visit in Henderson?
Start with a few simple questions. Is the provider an orthodontist? Is the doctor board certified? Who will see you or your child at each stage of care?
At Chenin Orthodontic Group, our doctors are specialists in orthodontics, and both see patients in Henderson and Summerlin. We’ve served Southern Nevada since 1978, so many families here know us from school events, community programs, and neighborhood connections. You can read more about us on our About Us and doctors page.
If you’re searching for braces treatment or Invisalign in Henderson, we welcome you to visit and ask anything you’d like.
What Orthodontic Options Are Available in Henderson?
Your options depend on your smile, your goals, and your age. Here are the services we offer to kids, teens, and adults:
- Metal braces: Traditional brackets and wires, which are reliable and come in many color choices.
- Clear ceramic braces: Tooth-colored brackets that blend in more than metal.
- Invisalign and Invisalign Teen: Removable clear aligners designed for comfort and flexibility.
- Early orthodontic treatment: Guidance for some children while their jaws are still growing.
- Accelerated treatment: Technology such as OrthoPulse, which some patients use during treatment.
- Retainers: Custom appliances that help keep your smile in place afterward.
Not every child needs early treatment, and not every patient is a fit for every option. An exam helps sort out what makes sense for you.
Can My Family Dentist Still Be Part of the Process?
Absolutely. Your dentist remains your partner for cleanings, cavities, and everyday care, and many dentists refer patients to an orthodontist when teeth or bites need attention.
During treatment, regular dental visits still matter. Braces and aligners need good brushing and flossing habits, and our guide to brushing and flossing with braces offers practical tips.
Where Can I Find Affordable Orthodontics in Henderson?
Cost is a real part of the decision, and we’re glad to talk about it openly. Fees depend on the treatment, its length, and your insurance benefits.
Our financial and insurance page explains payment and insurance information. Our team can also answer questions during your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a general dentist provide braces or Invisalign?
Some general dentists offer clear aligners or limited tooth movement. Orthodontists complete specialty training focused on tooth movement and bite alignment, and orthodontic care is all they do. Our recommendation is to ask who will plan and supervise your treatment.
Is an orthodontist more expensive than a dentist?
Costs vary by case, provider, and treatment type, so there’s no one answer. A consultation can give you a clearer picture of what to expect for your situation.
At what age should someone see an orthodontist?
Orthodontic care is available for kids, teens, and adults. Some children benefit from an early evaluation, while others don’t need early treatment at all. Adults of any age can explore their options too.
Do I need a referral from my dentist?
Many practices, including ours, welcome patients without a referral. If your dentist has suggested orthodontic care, we’re happy to coordinate with them.
What does ABO certification tell me about my orthodontist?
It tells you the orthodontist has gone beyond licensing to complete a voluntary process of exams and case review, followed by ongoing renewal.
Start With a Conversation
Choosing who straightens your teeth is a big decision, and you deserve clear answers. We’d love to meet you, hear your goals, and explain what specialist-supervised care could look like for your family. Visit our contact page to schedule a complimentary consultation, and take your first step toward a confident smile.