Many people use the terms dentist and orthodontist interchangeably, especially when talking about braces or teeth straightening. While orthodontists are dentists, they complete additional specialist training focused specifically on tooth and jaw alignment.
Orthodontics is a specialised area of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting issues related to crooked teeth, bite problems, and jaw development.
In this guide, we explain what orthodontists do, how they can help improve both appearance and oral health, and when it may be time to consider orthodontic treatment.
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who diagnoses and treats problems related to the alignment of the teeth and jaws. This includes crooked teeth, overcrowding, gaps between teeth, bite issues, and jaw positioning concerns.
After completing dental school, orthodontists undertake several additional years of specialist university training in orthodontics. While general dentists focus on overall oral health, orthodontists focus specifically on how the teeth and jaws develop, align, and function together.
Orthodontists help improve both the appearance and function of your smile. Orthodontists also treat spacing issues such as diastema, where gaps between teeth may gradually become more noticeable over time.
They commonly treat:
Treatment is designed not only to improve aesthetics but also to support better chewing, speech, oral hygiene, and long-term dental health.
Orthodontists do far more than simply straighten teeth, they help improve oral health, bite function, and long-term smile stability.
Crooked or misaligned teeth are more than just a cosmetic concern.
Poor alignment can make cleaning difficult, increase the risk of tooth wear, contribute to jaw discomfort, and affect the way your bite functions.
Orthodontists use customised treatment plans to gradually guide teeth into healthier positions.
Straight teeth are generally easier to clean and maintain.
Correcting alignment issues may help reduce the risk of:
Early orthodontic treatment can also help guide jaw development in growing children.
A straighter smile can make a significant difference to self-confidence and overall appearance.
Orthodontic treatment is often life-changing for patients who feel self-conscious about crowded, uneven, or protruding teeth.
The best treatment depends on your individual needs, age, and the complexity of the issue.
Metal braces remain one of the most effective and widely used orthodontic treatments. Although teeth straightening takes time, braces remain one of the most effective long-term solutions for correcting alignment and bite issues.
Brackets and wires gradually move teeth into better alignment over time.
Modern braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more discreet than many people expect.
Clear aligners are removable plastic trays that gradually straighten teeth without metal brackets or wires.
They are commonly used to treat:
Many patients prefer clear aligners because they are nearly invisible and removable for eating and cleaning.
In growing children, appliances such as palatal expanders may be used to widen the upper jaw and create space for developing teeth.
Other appliances may help guide jaw growth or correct bite issues that braces alone cannot address.
In some cases, there may not be enough room in the jaw for proper alignment.
When this occurs, an orthodontist may recommend removing certain teeth, such as wisdom teeth or overcrowded teeth, to create space and improve long-term results.
Orthodontic concerns can appear at different stages of life.
The Australian Society of Orthodontists recommends children have an orthodontic assessment around the age of 7. Early evaluation allows orthodontists to identify developing issues before they become more complex.
It’s never too late to improve your smile. Many adults choose orthodontic treatment to improve alignment, bite function, and confidence.
Signs you may benefit from orthodontic care include:
If you notice any of these signs, an orthodontic assessment can help determine whether treatment is needed and which option is most suitable.
General dentists often identify alignment concerns during routine check-ups and may refer patients to an orthodontist when specialist care is needed.
In many cases, dentists and orthodontists work together to support both oral health and smile aesthetics.
At MGA Dental clinic, we provide personalised orthodontic care for children, teenagers, and adults. Whether you are considering braces, clear aligners, or simply want professional advice about your smile, our team can help you understand your options and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
With clinics on the Gold Coast and in Brisbane, we focus on comfortable, patient-centred care designed to support long-term oral health and confidence.
If you are considering orthodontic treatment or would like to book an assessment, feel free to contact MGA Dental and arrange a consultation.
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