Updated September 15, 2025.
Parents often ask us whether there’s a genuine difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. First, a significant common thread between the two is that both dentists and orthodontists play vital roles in monitoring oral development and providing care and long-term education to children, teens, and parents alike. Both work toward the same goal, a healthy smile and strong, well-aligned bite, but approach it from different angles of expertise.
It’s important to note, however, that each professional undergoes distinct training and provides care with a particular focus. Understanding these differences between dentists and orthodontists can help you feel more confident when making decisions about your child’s dental care.
The Role of a Dentist
Dentists, in general, and pediatric dentists like Dr. Bret Jerger and the Jerger Pediatric Dentistry team, focus on a child’s overall oral health in Decatur by:
- Providing preventive care, such as cleanings and fluoride treatments.
- Diagnosing and treating cavities, gum disease, and oral infections.
- Educating parents and children on habits for healthy smiles, like proper brushing, flossing, and nutrition.
- Monitoring growth and development of children’s teeth, gums, and jawbones.
Pediatric dentists also create a kid-friendly environment that helps children feel comfortable and build positive associations with dental care from an early age. After all, your child’s dentist is the first line of defense against common dental problems. We do not take this responsibility lightly.
An Orthodontist’s Specialties
An orthodontist, meanwhile, is a dentist who has undergone multiple years (usually 2–3) of additional specialty training to focus on issues related to alignment and bite. Specifically, orthodontists diagnose and treat problems such as:
- Crooked teeth
- Overcrowding
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Crossbites
- Jaw growth
- Spacing concerns
Orthodontists can employ traditional metal braces, revolutionary clear aligner solutions (such as Invisalign® Teen), and other oral appliances to help guide an individual’s teeth and jaw into proper, healthy alignment. These treatments not only improve appearance but also make daily functions, such as chewing and speaking, easier.
Essentially, your dentist helps maintain and restore a healthy foundation, while an orthodontist addresses issues related to alignment or bite. Think of your (or your child’s) dentist as a “primary care doctor” for oral health and an orthodontist as a “specialist.” Whatever your child’s needs, Dr. Bret and our team work closely with orthodontists in Decatur to ensure a treatment plan that is seamless, tailored, and comfortable.
Strong, Healthy Smiles in Decatur Start at Jerger Pediatric Dentistry
Every healthy, confident smile begins with regular visits to a trusted pediatric dentist. If you’re in Decatur and have questions about whether your child might need orthodontic care or it’s simply time for a checkup, contact Dr. Bret Jerger and the friendly, helpful Jerger Pediatric Dentistry team today to schedule an appointment.