What makes an orthodontist different from a dentist?

Orthodontists are the dental specialists who correct dental and facial irregularities, day in and day out. An orthodontist is expert at moving teeth, helping jaws develop properly and working with the patient to help make sure the teeth stay in their new positions.

AAO member orthodontists are uniquely qualified to correct improperly aligned teeth and jaws. The American Dental Association requires orthodontists to have at least two years of post-doctoral, advanced specialty training in orthodontics in an accredited program, after graduation from college and then dental school. Only those who have completed this rigorous training may be called orthodontists.