Orthodontist question?

can an orthodontist do the job of a regular dentist? of they have to sit around and wait for some1 that need to get braces installed?

Orthodontist question?
An orthodontist must successfully complete dental school before specializing. This means that an orthodontist has been trained in all areas of dentistry.


However, that doesn't mean you want your orthodontist to be doing the rest of your dentistry. If he/she limits practice, it may have been years since he/she has done a root canal, a denture, ore an extraction. Legally though they can do any dentistry.


Practically, they will not. Most specialists get their patients referred to them by general dentists, and these general dentists won't appreciate their patient's treatment being taken over by a specialist. IOW, one hand washes the other.


Your point though is well taken--it can be more difficult for a specialist to set up in a location that can support him. I knew a periodontist who had trouble generating enough business, so he decided not to limit his practice to periodontics. He practiced as a general dentist. I don't know if he continued to get referrals from the other area general dentists.





Steve Bornfeld, DDS
Reply:Orthodontists specialize in their line of work and because of referrals, don't usually sit around waiting for work. Because they specialize in orthodontia, they wouldn't perform fillings (nor would I want one to!).