Hi! Alistair King here from Central Coast Orthodontics. I caught up with some high-school friends over the weekend, and I was asked what I’m up to these days.  I told him I’m an orthodontist, and he asked me… What’s the difference between seeing an orthodontist compared to a general dentist for your orthodontic treatment? It’s actually quite a common question, so I thought I’ll make a video sharing with you what I told him, just in case you are wondering the same thing…

Some people may not realise but orthodontics is a specialty field in dentistry in much the same way that medicine has specialty fields as well. To become an orthodontist you first have to train, qualify and practise at the dentist. The next step is to then apply to a University for a  position on the orthodontic training programme. This involves a further three years of full-time study. There is a lot to learn and master before you are able to qualify as an orthodontist.

Once you become an orthodontist then orthodontics is all you do, day in day out. There are plenty of dentists who have a special interest in orthodontics and have done some extra short term courses after their initial dental degree to learn a little bit more about how to straighten teeth and how braces work. However, as a specialist orthodontist, you get trained in all the different techniques as well as learning how to stay up to date with quality research so that you are able to provide the best, evidence-based treatment options for your patients for the best result.

If you’re not sure if you are seeing a specialist orthodontist for your orthodontic treatment then this can easily be searched on the AHPRA website. Also, most orthodontists in Australia are members of the Australian Society of Orthodontists, which has a website listing all their members as well. Finally, there’s also a lot of great information on the Orthodontics Australia website.

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, we strongly recommend you getting a specialist opinion to make sure all your options are covered and give yourself the best chance for a great result.

If you live or work on the Central Coast, we would love to look after you. We are conveniently located in both Gosford and Erina. Simply give us a call, complete the enquiry form on the website, or send us a direct message on social media, and we will help you organise an appointment that is closest to you. See you in the next video!

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