What's the Difference Between a Dentist & a Beaumont Orthodontist?
Understanding the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist is key to achieving the healthy, confident smile you deserve. Both your dentist and a Beaumont Orthodontist play vital roles in your oral health. However, they each have distinct areas of expertise that can significantly impact your long-term results.
When it comes to transforming your smile, visiting Chamberlain Family Orthodontics is the way to reach your goals with the best results possible.
What Does a Dentist Do?
Your dentist is your primary resource for general oral health care. Dentists are trained to provide:
- Routine checkups and cleanings
- Fillings, crowns, and bridges
- Tooth extractions
- Gum disease treatments
- Cosmetic dentistry, such as veneers and teeth whitening
You likely see your dentist multiple times a year for preventive care, advice on oral hygiene, and any basic treatments you may need. They’re experts in maintaining oral health, but they usually refer patients out for specialized services, such as orthodontics.
What Is an Orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who completes additional years of training beyond dental school. This extra education focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting tooth and jaw misalignments. An orthodontist is uniquely qualified to:
- Evaluate bite issues and jaw alignment
- Provide braces, clear aligners, and other appliances
- Treat malocclusions (misaligned teeth and jaws)
- Create customized treatment plans for complex cases
When you choose a Orthodontist in Beaumont, you’re choosing a professional who has devoted additional years to perfecting orthodontic techniques, so you receive highly specialized care for a smile that looks great and functions well.
Education and Training: Dentists vs. Orthodontists
Both dentists and orthodontists start with a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree, typically earned over four years of dental school. This training covers:
- Dental anatomy
- Oral pathology
- Basic treatment methods
- Patient care
After dental school, orthodontists take their education further by entering a residency program that lasts two to three additional years. During this residency, orthodontic residents gain in-depth knowledge of:
- Complex tooth movement
- Craniofacial development
- Advanced orthodontic appliances
- Treating severe bite issues
This level of specialized training goes beyond what general dentists typically receive, and allows orthodontists to handle more complex cases with confidence and precision.
When to See a Dentist
You should visit your dentist at least twice a year for routine checkups. Your dentist is your go-to professional for:
- Tooth decay or cavities
- Gum disease and bleeding gums
- Preventive treatments like cleanings and fluoride applications
- Restorative procedures such as crowns and fillings
- Basic cosmetic dentistry (e.g., teeth whitening, dental bonding)
Dentists diagnose and address everyday oral health issues. If they spot a problem that requires specialized care—such as significant tooth misalignment or bite issues—they’ll likely refer you to an orthodontist.
When to See a Beaumont Orthodontist
You’ll want to see a Beaumont Orthodontist if you have concerns about:
- Crooked or crowded teeth
- Overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite
- Jaw alignment issues
- Gaps between teeth
- Difficulty biting or chewing due to misalignment
Orthodontists can also evaluate the growth and development of your child’s jaw to intercept potential issues early. By beginning treatment at the right time, you may be able to prevent more extensive procedures down the road.
Specialized Training
Orthodontists focus on the intricacies of tooth movement, facial structure, and jaw alignment.
Customized Treatment Plans
Each patient’s anatomy is different. Orthodontists create individualized treatment strategies to meet your unique needs.
Complex Cases
From severe crowding to major bite issues, orthodontists are trained to handle challenging scenarios.
Comprehensive Care
Orthodontists grasp how orthodontic treatment integrates with overall oral health to provide a well-rounded approach to your smile.
Remember, orthodontic treatment can be a long-term commitment. You want to put your care in the hands of a professional who knows how to craft a healthy, beautiful smile.
Meet Dr. Chamberlain: Your Beaumont Orthodontist
Dr. Alexandra Chamberlain is a certified orthodontist who combines technical expertise with genuine compassion. She pursued years of additional training in craniofacial growth and orthodontic treatment, staying current with innovations like Invisalign, LightForce braces and digital smile design.
Her patient-focused philosophy means she listens carefully to your concerns, explains every option, and makes sure you feel comfortable at each step of your treatment. Dr. Chamberlain’s goal is to create an environment where you feel like a member of the family!
Why Choose Dr. Chamberlain as Your Redlands Orthodontist
Patient-Focused Care
You receive one-on-one attention in a supportive, communication-friendly environment.
State-of-the-Art Office
Chamberlain Family Orthodontics employs modern tools—from digital X-rays to advanced bracket designs—to offer top-tier care.
Customized Treatment Plans
Each treatment plan is tailored to your lifestyle, whether you prefer traditional braces, Invisalign, or ceramic brackets.
Comfortable Atmosphere
From the warm, family-oriented waiting area to the friendly staff, you’ll feel at ease throughout your visits.
Community Involvement
Dr. Chamberlain is committed to giving back to Beaumont, making her practice part of the local community.
Your Next Steps: Scheduling a Consultation
Ready to learn more about how a Redlands Orthodontist can transform your smile?
Schedule your free consultation with Dr. Chamberlain to find out which treatment option best suits your needs.
Your initial evaluation may include X-rays, digital scans, or photographs to create a comprehensive picture of your oral health. With these insights, Dr. Chamberlain will recommend personalized treatment solutions—ranging from InBrace to Invisalign—designed to meet your goals and lifestyle.
If you’re ready to elevate your smile with the focused expertise of a dedicated Beaumont Orthodontist, look no further than Chamberlain Family Orthodontics. We can’t wait to make you smile