TLC Dental

Visiting the Orthodontist vs. Dentist: What’s the Difference?

In Singapore, both orthodontists and dentists play crucial roles in maintaining oral health. However, their scopes of practice, qualifications, and areas of expertise are distinctly different. If you’re unsure which professional to consult, here’s a detailed breakdown of each profession to help you make an informed choice.

Job Scopes & Treatments

Dentists

difference between dentist and orthodontist 1

General dentists focus on maintaining overall oral health. Their primary responsibilities include preventive care, diagnosing and treating common dental issues, and managing the oral health of patients across all age groups. 

Typical services provided by dentists include:

  • Routine cleanings and preventive care
  • Fillings for cavities
  • Root canal treatments
  • Dental crowns
  • Tooth extractions
  • Treating gum disease
  • Wisdom tooth surgery
  • Dental implants
  • Dentures

For a comprehensive list of these treatments at TLC Dental Centre, click here.

Orthodontists

difference between dentist and orthodontist 2

Orthodontists are dental specialists trained to correct misaligned teeth and jaws. Their primary goal is to enhance bite function, facial aesthetics, and overall dental alignment. Orthodontic treatments often involve:

  • Diagnosing and managing overbites, underbites, crowded teeth, and jaw irregularities
  • Providing braces or clear aligners like Invisalign
  • Using other orthodontic appliances to achieve alignment

Orthodontists in Singapore undergo additional training and education compared to dentists. Learn more about these treatments at TLC Dental Centre here.

Qualifications

Dentists

dentist qualifications singapore to practice

To become a practising dentist in Singapore, individuals must:

  1. Complete a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree at the National University of Singapore (NUS), a 4-year program requiring specific admission criteria and subject prerequisites.
  2. Register with the Singapore Dental Council (SDC) after graduation. For more details about SDC registration, click here.

Orthodontists

orthodontist qualifications singapore to practice

To practice as an orthodontist in Singapore, individuals must:

  1. Obtain a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree, similar to general dentists.
  2. Complete an additional 3-year residency program (Master’s Degree) in orthodontics at a recognised institution such as NUS or an overseas university. This advanced training focuses on:
    • Managing tooth movement (orthodontics)
    • Guiding facial development (dentofacial orthopaedics)
    • Core sciences like anatomy, biochemistry, and pathology
    • Pre-clinical training in patient management and clinical oral sciences
  3. Earn the Master of Dental Surgery in Orthodontics qualification.
  4. Gain at least 5 years of clinical experience in orthodontics and pass an accreditation exam conducted by the Dental Specialists Accreditation Board (DSAB).
  5. Register as a certified orthodontist with the Singapore Dental Council.

So, Who Should I Visit: Dentist or Orthodontist?

Your choice between a dentist and an orthodontist largely depends on the specific oral health issue you’re facing. 

If you need general oral health advice and treatment such as routine cleanings, fillings, gum disease treatment, and addressing cavities or tooth decay, visit a Dentist! If you’re dealing with misaligned teeth, bite issues, or jaw irregularities that may require braces, retainers, or clear aligners like Invisalign, visit an Orthodontist. 

No worries if you’re still not sure where to start, though. You can always visit a dentist first, where they can evaluate your condition and refer you to an orthodontist if necessary. Alternatively, reach out to TLC Dental Centre at 91132847, and our experts will guide you to the appropriate professional for your needs.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *