The history of orthodontics has been intimately linked with the history of dentistry for more than 2000 years, which may explain why there is some confusion around the difference between dentists and orthodontists and a common misconception that they offer the same services.
Orthodontists are dental specialists. They specialise in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of dental and facial irregularities to correctly straighten teeth.
Orthodontists and dentists share many similarities – they work together to help you improve your overall oral health – but they actually work in very different ways.
All orthodontists are dentists who have embarked on 2 to 3 years of postgraduate study to specialize in orthodontics. Your general dentist will help you to maintain good oral hygiene, carry out fillings etc but will usually refer you to an orthodontist, like Dr Semaan, for more substantial work. Similarly you’ll find Dr Semaan may refer you to an orthodontist for general oral hygiene upkeep.
Dr Semaan is responsible for helping Australians feel good about their smiles. In addition to the psychological benefits such as improved self-confidence, orthodontic treatment also brings many physical benefits, including a beautiful smile through the correction of:
- Bad bites that can damage teeth and gums
- Protruding or misaligned teeth
- Gaps in your smile
- Crooked and overcrowded teeth
- Misaligned jaws (which can affect your facial profile)
- Speech, breathing or chewing difficulties
- Orthodontists are registered dental specialists who have completed an additional three years of full-time University training in orthodontics, facial growth and development, biology and biomechanics (they hold a General Dental Degree + Specialist Orthodontic Degree).
- Orthodontists are facial growth and dental development experts. They diagnose and treat crooked teeth, bad bites and poorly aligned jaws.
- Orthodontists are experts in all orthodontic treatment options and technologies for children, teens and adults.
