Orthodontist or Dentist? Who to See About Crooked Teeth — and How to Tell
4th July 2026
Medically reviewed by a GDC-registered dentist. Last updated: September 2026.
If you’ve noticed crooked teeth, gaps or bite problems, you may be wondering whether you need to see a dentist or an orthodontist. It’s a common question, and understanding the difference between an orthodontist vs dentist can help you get the right treatment sooner.
The good news is that both professionals play an important role in improving your oral health. In many cases, your general dentist is the best place to start. They can assess your teeth, discuss your options, and, if needed, refer you to an orthodontic specialist for more complex treatment.
In this guide, we’ll explain what an orthodontist does, how they differ from a general dentist, and how to know which professional is right for your smile.
The Short Answer: What’s the Difference?
Understanding the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist is actually quite straightforward.
A general dentist focuses on your overall oral health. They diagnose and treat a wide range of dental problems, including tooth decay and gum disease, missing teeth, and cosmetic concerns. Many dentists also provide teeth straightening using modern clear aligner systems for suitable cases.
An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed several additional years of specialist training in diagnosing and correcting problems with tooth alignment and bite. Their work focuses solely on moving teeth and correcting complex orthodontic issues.
In simple terms:
- A general dentist looks after your overall oral health throughout your life.
- An orthodontist specialises in straightening teeth and correcting bite problems.
- General dentists provide routine care such as examinations, fillings, crowns, hygiene appointments and preventative treatment.
- Orthodontists treat crowded teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites, crossbites and more complex alignment problems.
- Many dentists can successfully treat straightforward cosmetic alignment cases using clear aligners.
- Orthodontists usually manage more complex cases involving significant tooth movement, jaw development or impacted teeth.
The important thing to remember is that an orthodontist is always a qualified dentist first. They simply go on to complete additional specialist training that allows them to treat more advanced orthodontic cases. This is why, for many patients, a general dentist is the best place to begin—they can assess your smile and advise whether treatment can be carried out in-house or whether referral to a specialist would provide the best outcome.
What Does a General Dentist Do?
Your general dentist is responsible for maintaining your overall oral health throughout your life.
They provide routine examinations, fillings, gum care, crowns, cosmetic dentistry and preventative advice. Many dentists also offer modern teeth straightening solutions, such as clear aligners for suitable cases.
If you’re concerned about crooked teeth or wondering, do I need braces, your dentist is usually the best first point of contact. They’ll assess your smile, discuss your goals and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
If you’re interested in clear aligners, you can learn more about Invisalign and clear aligners.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
An orthodontist focuses specifically on diagnosing, preventing and treating problems relating to tooth alignment and bite.
This includes treating:
- Crowded teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- Overbites
- Underbites
- Crossbites
- Complex jaw alignment problems
- Impacted teeth
Their role goes beyond simply making teeth look straighter. Proper orthodontic treatment can improve chewing, speech, oral hygiene and long-term dental health.
The Training Route
In the UK, every orthodontist begins their career by qualifying as a dentist.
They then complete several additional years of specialist postgraduate training in orthodontics before passing advanced examinations. Qualified specialists are listed on the General Dental Council’s Specialist Register in Orthodontics.
This additional training equips orthodontists to manage more complex cases involving tooth movement, jaw development and facial growth.
Can a General Dentist Straighten Teeth?
Yes – in many cases. Modern general dental practices increasingly provide straightforward orthodontic treatment using clear aligners for patients with mild to moderate alignment concerns.
However, there’s an important distinction.
While dentists can successfully manage many cosmetic alignment cases, patients with significant bite problems, impacted teeth, or complex jaw discrepancies often benefit from referral to an orthodontic specialist.
At Northwick Manor Dental Practice, we believe in being honest about where each type of treatment is most appropriate. If your case is straightforward, we may be able to provide teeth straightening at our Worcester practice. If it’s more complex, we’ll recommend referral to a specialist to ensure you receive the highest standard of care.
Signs You May Benefit From Orthodontic Treatment
Not everyone who has slightly crooked teeth needs braces, but several signs suggest orthodontic treatment could improve both appearance and function.
Crowding, Spacing and Crooked Teeth
Crowded teeth can make brushing and flossing more difficult, increasing the risk of plaque build-up, gum disease and tooth decay.
Spacing between teeth may also affect appearance and make it easier for food to become trapped.
Bite Problems
Orthodontic treatment may also help if you have:
- An overbite
- An underbite
- A crossbite
- An open bite
- Teeth that don’t meet properly when biting together
These bite issues can sometimes contribute to uneven tooth wear, jaw discomfort or difficulties chewing.
It’s About Function, Not Just Appearance
Many people assume braces are purely cosmetic, but orthodontic treatment often improves oral health. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, distribute biting forces more evenly and can reduce strain on the jaw over time.
Simple Case or Complex Case? A Practical Way to Tell
A useful rule of thumb is this:
A simple case may involve:
- Mild crowding
- Small gaps
- Minor cosmetic alignment concerns
- Straightforward, clear aligner treatment
A complex case may involve:
- Significant bite problems
- Jaw growth issues
- Impacted teeth
- Severe crowding
- Previous orthodontic relapse
- Teeth requiring multidisciplinary treatment
If you’re unsure which category you fall into, your general dentist can assess your smile and advise whether treatment can be provided in-house or whether specialist input would be beneficial.
Can Adults Have Braces?
Absolutely. One of the biggest myths surrounding orthodontics is that braces are only for teenagers.
Today, more adults than ever are choosing orthodontic treatment. If you’ve been wondering, can adults get braces, the answer is yes, provided your teeth and gums are healthy enough for treatment.
Many adults choose discreet options such as clear aligners because they fit easily around work, social life and everyday activities.
Braces on the NHS: Who Qualifies?
Many patients ask about NHS braces, but eligibility is limited.
In England, orthodontic treatment is generally available on the NHS only for patients under 18 who have a clinically significant need. Eligibility is assessed using the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN).
Adults rarely qualify for NHS orthodontic treatment unless there are exceptional clinical circumstances.
Waiting times also vary depending on local NHS services.
Braces Cost in the UK 2026
One of the most common questions is, how much do braces cost in the UK. Private treatment varies depending on the complexity of your case and the type of appliance used.
Typical price ranges include:
- Fixed braces: approximately £2,000–£5,000+
- Clear aligners: approximately £2,000–£5,500+
- Retainers: additional costs may apply following treatment
If you’re asking how much braces cost, the best way to receive an accurate quotation is through a personalised consultation, as every smile is different.
Your Teeth Straightening Options
Modern orthodontics offers more choices than ever before.
Options may include:
- Traditional fixed braces
- Ceramic braces
- Clear aligners such as Invisalign
- Removable retainers after treatment
The right choice depends on your bite, treatment goals, lifestyle and budget.
How to Check a Clinician’s Registration
Before beginning orthodontic treatment, it’s worth checking your clinician’s credentials.
You can:
- Visit the General Dental Council (GDC) website.
- Search using the clinician’s name or GDC number.
- Confirm they’re registered to practise dentistry.
- If they’re described as a specialist orthodontist, check they’re listed on the GDC Specialist Register in Orthodontics.
This simple check helps ensure you’re receiving treatment from an appropriately qualified professional.
You can also meet the team to learn more about the clinicians at Northwick Manor Dental Practice.
What to Expect at an Assessment in Worcester
Your first appointment is all about understanding your smile.
We’ll examine your teeth, gums and bite, discuss your concerns and explain the treatment options available to you. If appropriate, we’ll also discuss clear aligners or refer you to an orthodontic specialist if your case requires more advanced care.
Patients can arrange consultations at our Worcester and our Droitwich practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I always need an orthodontist for braces?
No. Many straightforward alignment cases can be treated by experienced general dentists using modern clear aligner systems. More complex cases are often referred to orthodontic specialists.
Can adults get braces?
Yes. Adults of all ages can successfully straighten their teeth, provided their gums and supporting bone are healthy.
Are clear aligners as effective as braces?
For many mild-to-moderate cases, clear aligners produce excellent results. More complex tooth movements may still require fixed braces.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment varies in complexity but typically lasts 6 to 24 months.
Can I whiten my teeth after braces?
Yes. Many patients choose teeth whitening once orthodontic treatment is complete to enhance their new smile.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist doesn’t have to be complicated. Your general dentist is often the best place to start, providing expert advice, routine care and treatment for many straightforward alignment cases while referring more complex cases when specialist expertise is needed.
Book a consultation with our team, and we’ll guide you towards the treatment that’s right for your smile.
