Both orthodontists and dentists are trained professionals who work with teeth and oral health, but they have different areas of specialisation.
Dentists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of oral health problems, such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth infections. They also provide preventive care, such as regular checkups, cleanings, and x-rays, and can perform cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening and veneers.
Orthodontists, on the other hand, specialise in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of misaligned teeth and jaws only. They are trained to correct malocclusions, which are problems with the way the teeth fit together when the jaws are closed.
Dentists qualify after a 5-year undergraduate course at university as a General Dental Practitioner. If a general dental practitioner then decides that they are interested in a particular field of dentistry such as Orthodontics then they may choose to study a further 2 to 3 years to become an Orthodontist.