Dentist or orthodontist: who is responsible for what
Both are allowed to fit braces. Only one has spent three years learning nothing else.
A specialist orthodontist has completed, after studying dentistry, three years of further training devoted exclusively to orthodontics and has passed an examination before the dental chamber. The title is protected.
What dentists may do
Even without this further training, dentists are allowed to provide orthodontic treatment – that is legally permitted. Some have gained in-depth knowledge through continuing education and use additions such as “focus on orthodontics” (Tätigkeitsschwerpunkt Kieferorthopädie). Such an addition is not a specialist title; it describes what the practice deals with, not what it has been examined in.
How the work is divided in everyday care
The orthodontic diagnosis, the treatment plan and the appliances belong to the orthodontist. Tooth decay, gums and the six-monthly check-up stay with the family dentist – during brace treatment in particular, this is not a formality but the protection against white spots and decay under the bracket.
What you can look for
Ask about the further training – that is not impolite but a factual question. Have the treatment plan explained to you, not just handed over. And if several approaches are possible, ask why this particular one is being proposed. For larger treatments a second opinion is common and is not taken as mistrust by practices that work reputably.
The key points at a glance
- Becoming a specialist orthodontist takes three years of further training and an examination. The title is protected.
- Dentists may also provide orthodontic treatment. A “Tätigkeitsschwerpunkt” (practice focus) is not a specialist title.
- Diagnosis, plan and appliances with the orthodontist – tooth decay and gums with the family dentist.
- Asking about further training is factual, not impolite. A second opinion is common for larger treatments.
Answered briefly
Frequently asked questions
By the title itself: "Fachzahnärztin für Kieferorthopädie" or "Fachzahnarzt für Kieferorthopädie" (specialist dentist for orthodontics). Additions such as "Spezialist" (specialist) or "Tätigkeitsschwerpunkt" (practice focus) are something else. If in doubt, ask directly.
Yes. The orthodontist checks the position of the teeth, not the teeth themselves. During brace treatment, the regular check-ups with your family dentist are more important than usual, because cleaning is more difficult.
No. You can go to an orthodontic practice directly. In practice, the family dentist often refers because something has caught their eye – but it is not necessary.
There is no blanket answer. With simple findings, it can go well. With pronounced malocclusions, with children who are still growing and with combined treatments, the training speaks for the specialist.