Orthodontist vs Dentist: What's the Difference?

An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed a further three years of full-time specialist training in straightening teeth and correcting bites and is listed on the General Dental Council's Specialist List in Orthodontics, while a general dentist looks after overall oral health and may also offer some orthodontic treatment such as clear aligners. Only clinicians on that list can call themselves specialist orthodontists.

Both are qualified, regulated professionals. The question is which one suits your case. At Orthodontists London treatment is provided by GDC-registered dentists and specialist orthodontists, and if you would prefer to see a specialist, you can say so on the form.

What does an orthodontist do?

An orthodontist diagnoses and treats problems with the position of the teeth and the way the jaws meet. That includes crowding, spacing, protruding front teeth, deep bites, underbites, crossbites and open bites, as well as teeth that have not come through properly, such as impacted canines. Orthodontists also monitor jaw growth in children and decide when early treatment would help.

They use the full range of appliances: metal, ceramic and lingual braces, clear aligners, functional appliances that use growth to correct a bite, expanders and retainers. For adults with significant jaw discrepancies, they plan combined treatment with maxillofacial surgeons.

What does a general dentist do?

A general dentist provides routine care for the whole mouth: examinations, X-rays, cleaning, fillings, root canal treatment, crowns, bridges, dentures, extractions and treatment of gum disease. Many also provide cosmetic treatments such as whitening and bonding.

Some general dentists have taken additional courses and offer orthodontic treatment, most often clear aligners and sometimes short-term fixed braces for straightening the front teeth. They are allowed to do this, and for simple cases the results can be very good. They are not specialists, and they cannot use the title.

How long does it take to become an orthodontist in the UK?

After a five-year dental degree, a dentist usually works for at least two years in general practice or hospital posts. Then they complete a three-year full-time specialist training programme in orthodontics, typically including a master's or doctorate and clinical training in a hospital and specialist practice. They sit the Membership in Orthodontics examination of one of the Royal Surgical Colleges and can then apply to join the GDC Specialist List. In total, that is usually at least ten years of training.

How do you check if someone is a specialist orthodontist?

You can check any dental professional for free on the General Dental Council's online register:

1. Go to the GDC online register.
2. Search by the clinician's name or GDC number.
3. Check that their registration is current and shows them as a dentist.
4. Look for "Orthodontics" under specialist lists. If it is not shown, they are not a specialist orthodontist, whatever their website says.

Be aware that "Dr" is a courtesy title many dentists use, and phrases such as "orthodontic dentist", "aligner provider" or "experienced in orthodontics" are not specialist titles. Only "specialist orthodontist" or "orthodontist" used in a specialist sense means the person is on the list.

Should you see an orthodontist or a dentist for braces?

If you are not sure, a specialist assessment is a sensible starting point. A good general dentist will also refer you to a specialist when a case goes beyond what they are trained to treat.

Is a specialist orthodontist more expensive?

Often a little. Specialist fees can be higher because of their training and the complexity of the cases they see. For simple cases, the difference may not be worth paying. For complex cases it usually is, because the cost of a result that does not work, or of re-treatment, is much higher. London fees for adult metal braces start from about £2,800 in outer London and £3,650 centrally, and adult Invisalign from around £2,650. Our guides to how much braces cost and Invisalign cost give fuller breakdowns.

What other members of the team might you see?

Orthodontic practices often include orthodontic therapists, who are registered with the GDC as dental care professionals. They carry out some parts of treatment, such as changing wires and fitting retainers, under the prescription of a dentist or orthodontist. Dental nurses support clinicians in the surgery. Your treatment plan should always be made and supervised by a dentist or orthodontist. It is reasonable to ask who will see you at each appointment.

Do you need a referral to see an orthodontist?

Not for private treatment. You can request a consultation directly. Your dentist may still be involved, for example to make sure your teeth and gums are healthy before treatment, and you should keep up regular check-ups throughout.

Questions to ask whoever treats you

• Are you on the GDC Specialist List in Orthodontics? If not, what orthodontic training do you have?
• How many cases like mine have you treated?
• What are all my options, and why do you recommend this one?
• What happens if my case turns out to be more complex than expected?
• Who will I see at each appointment?

Our guide to choosing an orthodontist in London has a fuller checklist.

Book a consultation

Tell us about your teeth and whether you would like to see a specialist orthodontist, and we will arrange your consultation accordingly. Request a consultation through our online form.

Frequently asked questions

Related guides

• How Much Do Braces Cost in London? (2026 Price Guide)
• Invisalign Cost in London: 2026 Prices and What’s Included
• Harley Street Orthodontist: Costs and What to Expect
• How to Choose an Orthodontist in London
• Orthodontic Treatment in West London and Hammersmith
• London Invisalign and Braces Price Index 2026
• Orthodontists in London: Invisalign and braces
• Areas of London we cover