When it comes to dental health, many people think of orthodontists as the go-to professionals for correcting misaligned teeth, braces, and clear aligners. However, when a cavity strikes, the immediate question that comes to mind is whether orthodontists can help with fillings. After all, orthodontic care is a part of overall dental health, but do orthodontists handle all aspects of dental care, including fillings?
In this article, we’ll explore the roles of orthodontists versus general dentists, the differences between orthodontic and restorative dental treatments, and why it’s important to know which specialist to visit for various dental needs.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
Orthodontics is a specialised branch of dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating misaligned teeth and jaws. If you’re considering braces or clear aligners like Invisalign, an orthodontist is the professional who will design your treatment plan, apply the braces, and monitor your progress throughout the course of the treatment.
While orthodontists are essential for creating a beautiful, straight smile, their expertise lies specifically in the alignment of the teeth and jaw, not in treating tooth decay. Their role involves:
- Aligning teeth: Using braces, clear aligners, and other devices to straighten teeth.
- Correcting bite issues: Addressing underbites, overbites, and crossbites to improve functionality and aesthetics.
- Planning treatments for jaw alignment: Managing growth and positioning for children, teens, and adults.
However, when it comes to treating issues like cavities, filling cavities, or performing restorative procedures, orthodontists do not have the training or qualifications to handle those situations.
What Does a General Dentist Do?
General dentists, on the other hand, handle a broader spectrum of dental care, including preventive treatments, diagnostics, and restorative procedures. This includes:
- Cavity treatment: Identifying and treating cavities by filling them with various materials like amalgam, composite resins, and porcelain.
- Restorative care: Providing crowns, bridges, root canals, and other procedures to restore damaged teeth.
- Preventive care: Conducting regular check-ups, cleanings, and recommending oral health routines to avoid cavities and decay.
A general dentist near me is the professional to visit when you need fillings. They have the expertise to manage tooth decay, clean your teeth, and address any restorative issues that arise.
Can Orthodontists Perform Fillings?
Orthodontists do not perform fillings. Their specialty is focused on alignment, not restorative dentistry. Fillings are typically performed by general dentists who specialise in cavity care and tooth restoration.
Orthodontic treatment and cavity treatment require different sets of skills and training. An orthodontist is trained to work with the mechanics of teeth and jaws to reposition them correctly. In contrast, a general dentist is skilled in assessing and treating tooth decay, including placing fillings.
How Orthodontics and Restorative Care Work Together
While orthodontists and general dentists specialise in different areas, their work often complements each other. For example, if you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment with braces or aligners, you may need to visit a general dentist to treat cavities or other dental issues. It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment, as brackets and wires can trap food and plaque, leading to cavities.
Orthodontic care can sometimes be delayed or impacted by untreated cavities. Therefore, it’s essential to have regular check-ups with both an orthodontist and a general dentist, ensuring that your teeth are both aligned and free from decay.
Here are some scenarios where both specialists work together:
- Cavities and Braces: If you develop cavities during your orthodontic treatment, a general dentist will need to treat them before any further orthodontic adjustments can be made.
- Retainers and Restorations: After completing orthodontic treatment, you may need fillings or restorations for teeth that may have been damaged or decayed over time.
- Jaw Health and Alignment: In cases of extensive tooth or jaw misalignment, orthodontic and restorative care may go hand in hand to ensure a functional and healthy bite.
How Orthodontic Treatments Affect Fillings
Having braces or clear aligners can make your oral care routine a bit more challenging, but that doesn’t mean fillings are out of the picture. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Increased Risk of Cavities: Braces can make it more difficult to clean your teeth properly, which may increase the risk of cavities. Regular visits to your general dentist are essential to check for cavities that might develop around your braces.
- Composite Fillings: If you need fillings during orthodontic treatment, a dentist might use composite materials to ensure that the fillings blend in with the natural colour of your teeth.
- Temporary Adjustments: If you need restorative procedures like fillings, they might require temporary adjustments to your orthodontic treatment plan, such as moving the braces to make room for fillings.
What Types of Fillings Are Available?
General dentists provide several types of fillings based on the size of the cavity, the tooth involved, and the material preferences of the patient. Here are the most common types:
| Type of Filling | Best For | Common Material | Benefits |
| Composite Fillings | Small to medium cavities, front teeth | Resin-based composite | Aesthetic appeal, durable, and customisable |
| Amalgam Fillings | Larger cavities, molars | Silver-coloured amalgam | Cost-effective, durable, long-lasting |
| Porcelain Fillings | Front teeth, large cavities | Porcelain | Natural appearance, stain-resistant |
| Glass Ionomer Fillings | Cavities near the gumline | Glass ionomer | Fluoride release, good for children |
Why You Should See a General Dentist for Fillings
Seeing a general dentist for fillings offers several advantages, including:
- Experience: General dentists are specifically trained to treat tooth decay and perform restorative procedures such as fillings, crowns, and root canals.
- Comprehensive Care: General dentists are also experts in preventative care, helping you avoid cavities and other oral health issues in the first place.
- Customisation: They can tailor your treatment based on the materials that best suit your needs, such as choosing porcelain for a more natural appearance or amalgam for durability.
Why Choose Macquarie Dental Care Belconnen?
At Macquarie Dental Care Belconnen, we offer comprehensive dental services to ensure your smile stays both beautiful and healthy. From preventive care to orthodontic treatments and restorative procedures like fillings, our team is committed to providing the highest level of care. Whether you need to straighten your teeth or treat a cavity, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward optimal oral health!
Important FAQs
Q1: Can Orthodontists Treat Cavities?
No, orthodontists specialise in teeth alignment and cannot treat cavities. If you need a filling, you should visit a general dentist.
Q2: Can I Get a Filling While Undergoing Orthodontic Treatment?
Yes, it’s possible to get a filling while wearing braces or clear aligners, but you’ll need to consult both your orthodontist and your general dentist.
Q3: Do I Need to See an Orthodontist and a General Dentist?
Yes, it’s essential to see both. An orthodontist for alignment and a general dentist for regular dental care, including fillings, check-ups, and cleanings.
Q4: What Happens If I Develop a Cavity During Orthodontic Treatment?
If you develop a cavity while undergoing orthodontic treatment, your general dentist will treat it before continuing with your orthodontic adjustments.
Q5: How Do Braces Affect My Dental Health?
Braces can make it harder to clean your teeth properly, increasing the risk of cavities. Regular dental check-ups with your general dentist are essential during orthodontic treatment.
Q6: Are There Different Types of Fillings?
Yes, there are several types of fillings including composite, amalgam, porcelain, and glass ionomer, each suited to different types of cavities and personal preferences.
