You may know that orthodontics and dentistry both relate to teeth, but do you know what differentiates the forms of service these two areas offer? If you’re in need of treatment for your teeth, you need to know. Both dentists and orthodontists work on oral health and dental care, but they can help your teeth in different ways.
Why Dentistry?
Dentistry deals more with gums, nerves, and general tooth health and oral hygiene. Dentists specialize in preventing/treating cavities, gum diseases, and tooth decay. Additionally, dentists can restore the health and function of teeth with treatments like veneers, crowns, and bridges. There are also some very cosmetic aspects of dentistry like teeth whitening, which aim to improve the appearance of your teeth.
Why Orthodontics?
Orthodontics focuses on the straightening of teeth and correcting misaligned bites. Orthodontists have a wide variety of tools at their disposal to help align teeth and jaws, including braces and Invisalign aligners as well as more specialty appliances like palatal expanders and orthodontic headgear. Choice Orthodontics is a trusted orthodontic treatment practice that provides the St. Joseph, Gallatin, Hiawatha, and Atchison areas with these types of services and more. Our orthodontist Dr. Lauren Windhorst has high levels of training and experience getting great smile results.
About Our Orthodontist
Dr. Lauren Windhorst is a member of the American Dental Association, Missouri Dental Association, Northwest Missouri Dental Society, American Association of Orthodontics, and Missouri Society of Orthodontists. She also hosts a monthly Women in Dentistry Meeting with other local female dental professionals. St. Joseph is Dr. Windhorst’s hometown and her strong work ethic revolves around treating every patient as if it was herself in treatment. In fact, the first Invisalign case she treated was on herself so she could make sure if worked before she recommended it to patients!
Who Should I See?
So, should you go to an orthodontist or dentist for your dental care? If you have a toothache, notice a cavity, or need an annual dental cleaning, see your dentist for a checkup! If you need treatment for crooked teeth or biting issues due to jaw misalignment, an orthodontist will be able to help you. Typically, if you explain those orthodontic-related concerns to your dentist, they will refer you to a skilled orthodontist in your area (i.e. Dr. Windhorst).
Contact Our Orthodontics Practice Today
Orthodontics and dentistry may have their differences, but they work hand-in-hand to create healthy, beautiful smiles, which is what we are passionate about here at Choice Orthodontics. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Windhorst in our St. Joseph, Gallatin, Hiawatha, or Atchison office and get started on your orthodontic treatment, contact us today!