When it comes to oral health, most people know when it’s time to see their dentist. Routine cleanings, cavities, and general maintenance all fall under a dentist’s scope. But when teeth start to shift, bite problems develop, or jaw discomfort becomes more frequent, the line between what a general dentist can treat and when an orthodontist is needed becomes less clear.
Understanding the difference between these two professionals is essential to getting the right care at the right time. Especially in a city like Vancouver, where access to specialized care is widely available, knowing when to transition from general dentistry to orthodontic care can save time, money, and lead to better long-term outcomes.
Understanding The Core Difference Between Dentists And Orthodontists
Dentists are trained to handle a wide range of oral health concerns. They examine your teeth, perform cleanings, repair tooth decay, treat gum disease, and can spot the early signs of more complex issues. However, their training in tooth alignment and jaw development is limited compared to that of an orthodontist.
Orthodontists, on the other hand, receive additional years of specialized education focused solely on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting irregularities in teeth and jaw alignment. They are the ones to see when you need braces, clear aligners like Invisalign, or treatment for complex bite issues such as overbites, underbites, or crossbites.
This difference is not just academic, it has real implications for the type of treatment you’ll receive. While some general dentists may offer basic orthodontic options, a certified orthodontist brings focused expertise that can result in more accurate diagnoses, better treatment planning, and more efficient results.
Signs That It's Time To Seek Orthodontic Care In Vancouver
Orthodontic issues often develop gradually, which makes them easy to ignore or adapt to. Many patients assume discomfort or uneven teeth are normal, especially if they have lived with them for years. In reality, these signs often indicate the need for an orthodontic evaluation.
- Crowded or overlapping teeth, making it hard to clean or floss properly;
- Visible gaps between teeth that affect both appearance and function;
- Frequent biting of the cheek or tongue, suggesting a misaligned bite;
- Speech difficulties caused by tooth or jaw positioning;
- Clicking or pain in the jaw joint (TMJ) when talking or chewing;
- Mouth breathing, especially in children, linked to poor jaw development;
- Early or late loss of baby teeth, which may disrupt adult tooth alignment;
- Difficulty chewing or biting into food, indicating a functional imbalance.
If you or your child are experiencing one or more of these signs, it is likely time to go beyond routine dental care and seek the guidance of an orthodontist.
The Benefits Of Starting With The Right Specialist
Delaying orthodontic evaluation can have consequences. Minor issues may become more complicated and harder to treat as time goes on. Starting with a specialist ensures a more targeted and efficient approach to treatment, particularly in growing children whose jaws and teeth are still developing.
For adults, the advantages are just as significant. Orthodontists are equipped with the latest technologies, including digital imaging and clear aligner systems, that can shorten treatment time and provide more comfortable options than traditional braces alone.
Seeking care directly from an orthodontist in Vancouver also streamlines your treatment. Instead of being referred later by your general dentist, you’ll receive a detailed consultation, a personalized treatment plan, and expert monitoring from the beginning. That means fewer surprises, better outcomes, and a smoother path to a confident smile.
Orthodontic Care In Vancouver
If you’re unsure whether your dental concerns require a general dentist or an orthodontist, it’s always worth asking a specialist. At PacificWest Dental Group, our team of certified orthodontists in Vancouver can help assess your needs and recommend the best course of action, whether that means continuing routine care or starting a custom orthodontic treatment plan. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward expert orthodontic care in Vancouver.
Hello! I’m Dr. Kevin Lee, a certified orthodontic specialist at PacificWest Dental Group, proudly serving the vibrant communities of Vancouver and Surrey. My journey into orthodontics began back in high school. As a teenager wearing braces, I became fascinated by the intricate blend of art, engineering, and biology that defines this field. This early experience ignited a passion that has guided me throughout my career.
I pursued my academic journey at the University of British Columbia (UBC), where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry in 2006, followed by a Doctor of Dental Medicine in 2011. After a year-long residency at Montefiore Medical Center in New York, I returned to UBC to complete a combined Master of Science in Craniofacial Biology and a Diploma in Orthodontics in 2015. That same year, I achieved certification from both the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and the American Board of Orthodontics.
With over a decade of clinical experience, I remain deeply committed to staying at the forefront of orthodontic advancements. At PacificWest Dental Group, we prioritize personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring comfort and care every step of the way. Our goal is to help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Outside the clinic, I enjoy engaging with our community and staying active. Whether it’s through local events or outdoor activities, I believe in building strong relationships both inside and outside the office. I look forward to meeting you and working together to create a beautiful, confident smile.
Services we provide:
-Invisalign
-Braces
-Lingual Braces
-Digital treatment planning
-TMJ and headpain treatment
-Laser Therapy
-Sleep Apnea Oral Appliance
-Dysport Cosmetic Injectables
