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Understanding Orthodontics Vs. Cosmetic Dentistry

Love Yourself, Love Your Smile

BHO-man
  • Dr. Monica Madan
  • October 11, 2022

Between posting on social media, attending Zoom meetings, and speaking on FaceTime, we spend a lot of time looking at ourselves these days. 

In one sense, this level of self-familiarization can be a great thing. Consistently working to look your best online and in real life can lead to a more positive body image—a key component of good mental health. On the other hand, when people don’t feel comfortable with their appearance, it can have the opposite effect and lower overall happiness. 

To help people feel more confident in their appearance, dental and orthodontic practices have long provided services that:

  • Correct teeth misalignments for a straighter smile
  • Replace missing teeth with dental implants
  • Eliminate stains for a whiter overall smile

Beginning in the 1980s, some of these treatments became grouped together under the umbrella term “cosmetic dentistry.” However, this term can be a bit confusing given that orthodontists also heavily focus on improving patient appearance via teeth straightening and smile reconstruction. As a result, some patients may be confused over whether an orthodontist or cosmetic dentist will best suit their needs. 

If you’re looking for clarification on the “orthodontics vs. cosmetic dentistry” dynamic, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll break down how these two specialties intersect and differ from one another.

So, What’s the Difference Between Orthodontists and Cosmetic Dentists?

At first glance, orthodontists and cosmetic dentists may appear to fulfill similar care roles. After all, they both work to improve patient smiles by fixing things like misaligned bites and damaged teeth. However, the ways in which orthodontists and cosmetic dentists provide treatment are very different. 

Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry that is focused on treating teeth and jaw misalignments. Similar to how dermatologists are medical doctors who undergo extensive training to work with children, orthodontists are dentists who  attend 3 years of extra training as part of a “residency program” after the 4 years of dental school to learn how to diagnose, treat, and prevent jaw/teeth misalignment. They spend almost as much time in orthodontic training as they did in dental school. Orthodontists do not do fillings or cleanings etc, they specialize in straightening teeth and retention.

Accredited orthodontics programs are known to be extremely competitive, which is part of the reason why there are only 11,000 orthodontists currently practicing in the US as compared to 200,000 general dentists. Only 1-2 graduating dentists get into an orthodontic residency program per year per class.

Compared to orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry is a much broader field that requires no special credentials to practice. As a term, “cosmetic dentistry” refers to a range of treatments that any general dentist can provide to fix aesthetic issues related to one’s teeth, bite, and gums. Although some of these treatments do improve oral functionality, the main goal of cosmetic dentistry is to improve smile appearance—not to treat health problems.   

Orthodontic treatments, on the other hand, focus on improving oral health by correcting bite and jaw issues. As a result of treatment, the patient’s smile will look significantly better than it did before.

Orthodontics vs. Cosmetic Dentistry: Differences in Treatment Options and Goals

Although orthodontics and cosmetic dentistry are two different dental disciplines, they do intersect in a few ways. For instance, orthodontists and cosmetic dentists both offer treatments for crooked teeth. 

However, the ways in which they treat crooked teeth can be very different:

  • An orthodontist will treat crooked teeth with either Invisalign, fixed braces, or a similar oral appliance/device. These treatment options will permanently correct tooth alignment to create a smile that is both better-looking and healthier.
  • A cosmetic dentist will often treat crooked teeth with traditional porcelain veneers. Although porcelain veneers will help teeth appear straighter, the natural teeth are not moved and treatment requires permanent enamel removal, which makes teeth weaker.

In addition to veneer treatment, many cosmetic dentists offer Invisalign as well. However, because cosmetic dentists lack the specialty training of orthodontists, they can only offer Invisalign to patients with very minor alignment issues. Minor alignment issues can very quickly turn into major alignment issues if not treated correctly the first time. Comparatively, an orthodontist can use Invisalign in conjunction with other specialty treatments to correct complex oral health issues. 

In this comparison, we can see the general “orthodontics vs cosmetic dentistry” dynamic at play. The orthodontist will create a comprehensive treatment plan to improve the patient’s oral health and oral beauty. Meanwhile, the cosmetic dentist will likely focus solely on improving appearance and may not be able to correct any alignment issues that go beyond aesthetics. 

That said, cosmetic dentistry is a valid treatment option for a number of smile problems. For example, cosmetic dentists are great at fixing issues like missing/damaged teeth and stained smiles. When it comes to smile alignment, however, you can’t beat the specialty knowledge and comprehensive treatment options provided by an orthodontist. 

If you’re trying to decide between visiting an orthodontist and cosmetic dentist to treat your crooked teeth, consider the comparison chart below for guidance on which treatment option may be right for you:

Invisalign/Braces Treatment from an Orthodontist 

Traditional Veneers from a Cosmetic Dentist

Permanent solution for crooked teeth

Prosthetic solution that will likely need to be replaced in the future

Increases smile functionality 

Non-permanent solution, often without increased function

Helps alleviate the muscle strain associated with misaligned jaws

Does not address medical issues associated with misalignment

Patients will retain their natural smile

Requires permanent alteration of the natural tooth

Treatment typically takes a few months 

Treatment takes a few weeks to complete

Ready to Permanently Fix Alignment Issues?

Cosmetic dentistry is a great treatment avenue if you want to treat aesthetic issues like damaged teeth or a discolored smile. However, there are significant limits to what a cosmetic dentist can do to treat a misaligned smile.

Orthodontic treatment offers a way to obtain a permanently straight smile without any compromises. At Beverly Hills Orthodontics, Dr. Monica Madan has been helping patients achieve perfect smiles on their own terms since 2008. Recognized as Diamond Plus Invisalign Provider, Dr. Madan and the BHO team work hand-in-hand with patients to transform smiles, improve health, and boost confidence.

Your Smile Is More than just two rows of teeth - it's how you show your personality to the world.

Let Dr. Madan and her team help you help keep your smile looking (and feeling) better than ever.
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We are thankful for the opportunity to serve our communities with the highest quality care. Check out what our patients are saying about their 5-star experience with us!

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Before finding BHO, I had consultations both telling me traditional braces were my only option. I knew my case would be a bit challenging but as an adult, metal braces weren't going to work... for me, aesthetically speaking. I'm so glad I followed my instincts and gave BHO a shot! From the moment I walked in, I knew this was the place. Modern amenities with a super friendly staff explaining everything along the way - what a great first impression! I just started my treatment and can't wait to see my results! Dr. Madan and her team are legit! Don't hesitate to get the smile your deserve!read more
Nydia J.
Our entire experience with the staff and services at Beverly Hills Orthodontics has been fantastic. Their knowledge, advice and care has been exceptional and I have no hesitation in... recommending them to anyone looking for first class orthodontic care. Special shout outs to Dr Madan and Gabriel for their above and beyond care❤️read more
Juliet P.
What a wonderful experience. Dr. Madan and the entire staff are professional, kind, and very understanding. So far they have made the experience of Invisalign extremely easy. I just wish I... had gone there sooner!read more
Claire P.
I recently relocated to Los Angeles and not long after being here needed to have some repair dental work done and did not know where to turn. I was given a referral to Dr. Madan and could... not be happier. I was able to receive an appointment really quickly and was advised of an immediate plan of action to get my corrective work going. Dr. Madan is extremely knowledgeable about her craft and to top it off, she has a great temperament that instantly put me at ease and made me feel like she genuinely cared. Her Beverly Hills office is vibrant, with really friendly & pleasant staff, who make you feel comfortable and bring all the right vibes! No question I would recommend Beverly Hills Orthodontics to anyone looking to have work done on their teeth and perfect their smile.read more
Dionnee H.
Dr. Madan and her team at BHO are truly amazing. She has treated myself and my daughter and we both now have BEAUTIFUL smiles because of her. She is an expert at what she does and is... caring and attentive. I recommend this office to everyone all the time!!!!!! The best!!!read more
Mia C.
Tia literally invented the Invisalign game. Changing lives one smile at a time.
William S.
BHO is the only place where you'd want to get your braces done! Their staff is so friendly and knowledgeable. Their helpdesk staff always greet you with a smile on. Dr. Madan and her team... of technicians are always ready to answer all of your questions, address any concerns and get you on the road to obtaining the perfect Smile.read more
Bella M.
Amazing people and amazing results-Highly recommend
Ben S.
I’m impressed by the technology and professionalism of Beverly Hills Orthodontics. They are knowledgeable about my unique orthodontic needs and were able to provide recommendations on my... treatment as an adult patient. I’m very excited to begin my Invisalign journey!read more
Victoria G.
Best Orthodontics around! Dr. Madan and her amazing team are always on point, bringing both my kids beautiful smiles. Have been coming to the BH office for several years now and absolutely... love the results and customer service! Would (and have) highly recommended them!read more
J I.
We had a terrific experience with Dr. Madan. They always worked with our schedule and made us feel welcome and happy at each appointment.
Audrey K.
Great experience. Treatment was quick and easy for me and the staff was great to deal with and professional. I’m very happy with my new smile.
Steve V.
I usually don’t do many reviews but I had to for this office! I am myself a Pediatric Dentist and I researched for the best office for my daughter. She just finished her Invisalign ... treatment at Beverly Hills Orthodontics and we are so happy with her smile! I have been practicing Dentistry for over 20 years and I am so impressed with the team here. From the front desk to the Doctors and their assistants, everyone has made our experience so wonderful! As a Dentist, I would recommend BHO for anyone wanting to improve their smile😊read more
Nina G
BHO is awesome and Dr. Monica Madan and their team are so friendly, welcoming, and knowledgeable. I started with some aesthetic improvements for my wedding photos and was very impressed... with the initial results. However, I had a major cross-bite that would typically require surgery to correct, which wasn’t appealing. After consultation with Monica she thought it would be possible to correct with Invisalign so we decided to proceed for the long haul. While it’s been a long time, the results have been outstanding. I wasn’t sure I would be able to be B withstand that long of the treatment and achieve these results but after seeing the progress it’s been very encouraging and motivating to stick with it. I’m likely on my last refinement and the before and after is remarkable and transformative. Their office is always bright, clean, and has a lively vibe going on. Always feel good being there and better when I leave. Couldn’t recommend them more highly enough. Monica has done a great job building this out and creating a great team and experience.read more
Matt W.
Beverly Hills Orthodontics has been a wonderful experience. The team are extremely professional and experienced. I completed my Invisalign treatment today and had enameloplasty and zoom... whitening to complete the treatment. I’m so happy with the results. Dr. Madan, Gabriel, and the rest of the team listened to my concerns, set up several check-up appointments with me to follow my progress, and provided me with refinements when my teeth were being stubborn. The office is also a great atmosphere with current music playing, friendly staff, and amazing views of Los Angeles from the dentist chair! I would highly recommend this orthodontic practice. Thank you, everyone!read more
Sophie D.
Great overall service staff was very helpful with explaining process. Would highly recommend as it was a smooth process with no surprises along the way.Would like to highlight the... multiple locations which make it easy for scheduling appointments dependent on where you live or what part of LA you will be in that day.read more
Sean M.
My son and daughter have been coming here for years! Absolutely love them.
Tarja C.
I started my Invisalign treatments here and the staff was really friendly and patient with all my concerns and questions. Love it!
Jana M.
Super great experience! Came in for my consultation around the beginning of the year with a plan in mind to have my teeth straight before graduation through Invisalign and the BHO team... completely surpassed my expectations. My USC graduation is in 2 weeks, I just got my brackets off and smile is looking awesome. Annabel and Gabriel were so welcoming, friendly, and made the experience that much better. Dr. Madan was awesome she was always around and extremely hands on, great personality! Definitely come here if you’re looking for an orthodontist!! 10/10! :)read more
Eva P.
Really great experience so far, especially compared to other ortho places where I've had treatment before. For example, my partner went to another place and doesn't hear from them for... months at a time, whereas this place uses an app to keep in touch every week.They were running a special when I signed up which took nearly $1,000 off invisalign - super helpful considering the price!!! I don't think it runs all the time so you might want to ask them - but they combined it with my dental insurance so the cost came out really affordable... less than $100/month for 12 months.Even when I needed tooth filing, attachments, and refinements across multiple visits, they were super kind and flexible to meet my very very hectic schedule definitely recommend going here!read more
Jonathan B.
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