Orthodontist or Dentist: Who Should You See for Straight Teeth?

Orthodontist or Dentist: Who Should You See for Straight Teeth?

3rd June 2026

Many patients in Fareham and across Hampshire aren’t sure whether to book with their dentist or see an orthodontist when they want to straighten their teeth. This guide explains the difference — and why it matters for your treatment outcome.

If you’ve been thinking about straightening your teeth, you may have already noticed that both dentists and orthodontists offer teeth-straightening treatments. Invisalign, for example, is available from a wide range of dental practices — not just orthodontic ones.

So who should you actually see? The short answer is that it depends on the complexity of what you need. But understanding the difference between a dentist and a specialist orthodontist is important before you make that decision.

What does a dentist do?

Your general dentist is trained to look after the overall health of your teeth and gums. This covers a wide range of care: fillings, crowns, extractions, hygiene, and routine check-ups. Many dentists also offer cosmetic treatments, including teeth whitening and veneers.

Some dentists also offer orthodontic treatments, such as Invisalign, having completed additional training courses. This is entirely legal — there is no requirement in the UK for orthodontic treatment to be carried out by a specialist.

What does a specialist orthodontist do?

A specialist orthodontist is a dentist who, after qualifying, went on to complete a further three years of full-time postgraduate training focused exclusively on orthodontics — the diagnosis, planning, and treatment of teeth and jaw alignment. In the UK, specialist orthodontists must be listed on the GDC Specialist Register.

Orthodontics is all an orthodontist does. They do not carry out fillings, extractions, or other general dental work. Their entire clinical focus is on moving teeth safely and effectively.

I am a GDC-registered Specialist Orthodontist (GDC No. 79324) and a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. Orthodontics is the only treatment I provide.

Is there a practical difference in outcomes?

For straightforward cases — mild crowding, minor spacing — a dentist with appropriate training can achieve good results.

However, many patients present with more complex needs: significant crowding, bite problems, asymmetry, or teeth that have been previously treated by another provider and need correction. These cases require a level of diagnostic skill and clinical experience that comes from years of specialist training and full-time orthodontic practice.

A specialist orthodontist is also trained to identify issues beyond aesthetics. A well-finished orthodontic result isn’t just straight teeth — it includes a stable bite, good function, and a treatment plan that protects long-term dental health.

What about online or “direct to consumer” aligner companies?

In recent years, a number of companies have offered clear aligner treatment by post, without requiring an in-person clinical assessment. The British Orthodontic Society has raised serious concerns about this model, and it is not something I offer or recommend.

Safe orthodontic treatment begins with a thorough clinical examination — including an assessment of your bite, gums, bone levels, and the health of your teeth roots. Without this, there is a risk of harm that no amount of convenience can justify.

How do I find a specialist orthodontist?

You can check whether an orthodontist holds specialist status by searching the GDC’s Specialist Register at gdc-uk.org. Look for the entry “Orthodontics” under their listed specialties.

You do not need a referral from your dentist to book a consultation with a specialist orthodontist, though many patients are referred by their dentist as part of their overall care plan.

So — dentist or orthodontist?

A simple way to think about it:

• For general dental health, check-ups, and hygiene — see your dentist.
• For teeth straightening, bite correction, or any orthodontic concern — consider seeing a specialist orthodontist, particularly if your case is anything other than very mild.
• If you are unsure how complex your case is, a consultation with a specialist orthodontist will give you the clearest picture of your options and the most accurate treatment plan.

At Angus Pringle Orthodontics in Fareham, I offer a free online consultation as a first step. This allows me to review your smile and give you an initial sense of whether orthodontic treatment could help — before you commit to anything.

If you decide to proceed, I will carry out a full clinical assessment, take digital scans using the iTero system, and put together a personalised treatment plan. Treatments I offer include Invisalign, Spark Aligners, Damon Braces, and Functional Appliances.

Ready to find out what’s possible?

Book a free online consultation with Angus Pringle Orthodontics in Fareham, or call us on 01329 226470. We see patients from across Hampshire, including Gosport, Portchester, Havant, Southampton, and Waterlooville.

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