Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment that can be provided by both dentists and orthodontists. Dentists can provide an initial consultation and evaluation for Invisalign, while orthodontists can treat more complex cases. Orthodontists have more specialized training and experience in the field of orthodontics, including practices and courses dedicated specifically to Invisalign. They are better prepared to treat complicated cases than providers with less experience.
Before scheduling an appointment with any of the professionals, it's helpful to find out how Invisalign works and how best to choose a provider. If you have a highly complex dental problem, it's best to see an orthodontist. If orthodontic appliances are the best option for the problem, the dentist may refer the patient to an orthodontist. Seeing a general dentist for treatment, especially if you are your regular dentist, makes it easier to put on Invisalign and go to follow-up appointments.
Dentists are fully prepared to provide dental care, but generally have limited experience in moving the teeth, jaw, and surrounding facial tissues. This allows the orthodontist to take an accurate 3D model of your mouth and send it electronically to the Invisalign laboratory. If you have very crooked teeth or a prominent malocclusion, braces might be the best option and you should see an orthodontist instead. It's rare to find a dentist who provides patients with traditional orthodontic appliances for their crooked teeth.
By definition, an orthodontist is a medical professional who specializes in diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misalignment of the teeth or jaw, which is exactly what Invisalign is designed for. Orthodontists have many years of training that general dentists do not have, and are fully dedicated to the art of aligning teeth.
