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: both dentists and orthodontists play vital roles in monitoring oral development and providing care and long-term education to children, teens, and parents alike.
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 at here Jerger Pediatric Dentistry in Decatur, focuses on a child’s overall oral health, by:
- Providing preventive care like 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.
Your child’s dentist is the first line of defense against common dental problems and the go-to provider for regular checkups.
An Orthodontist’s Specialties
An orthodontist, meanwhile, is a dentist who’s undergone multiple years (usually 2-3) of additional specialty training in order to focus on alignment and bite issues. 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 (like Invisalign® Teen), and other oral appliances to help guide an individual’s teeth and jaw into proper, healthy alignment.
Basically, your dentist helps preserve and restore a healthy foundation, while an orthodontist will step in to address alignment or bite issues. 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 works 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 and helpful Jerger Pediatric Dentistry team today to schedule an appointment!