It’s easy to think that all dental professionals do the same thing — teeth, right? But when it comes to choosing the right expert for your specific dental needs, knowing the difference between an orthodontist and a general dentist is more than helpful — it’s important.
Especially here in Curaçao, where finding the right specialist can make a real difference in your smile (and your wallet).
At Sta. Rosa Klinika Dental, we want to help you understand who does what — and when you should see one or the other.
Plus, our friendly team speaks English, so you’ll always know what’s going on with your dental care.
Let’s break it down in plain language.
What Does a General Dentist Do?
Think of a general dentist like your family doctor — but for your mouth. General dentists cover a wide range of routine dental care. They’re the ones you see most often.
Services General Dentists Provide:
- Regular checkups and cleanings
- Fillings for cavities
- Root canals
- Crowns and bridges
- Basic tooth extractions
- Preventive care (like fluoride treatments and sealants)
- Guidance on brushing, flossing, and oral hygiene
Most people visit their general dentist at least twice a year. They handle most of the common issues and refer you to specialists when needed.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
Now, if a general dentist is your family doctor, then an orthodontist is more like a bone and alignment specialist — but just for your teeth and jaw.
Orthodontists are dental specialists who focus on correcting bite problems, straightening teeth, and improving the function and appearance of your smile.
They go through extra years of training to handle more complex issues.
Services Orthodontists Provide:
- Braces (metal, ceramic, or clear aligners like Invisalign)
- Treatment for overbites, underbites, and crossbites
- Space maintainers
- Jaw alignment treatments
- Retainers
- Growth monitoring in kids and teens
If your teeth are crooked, or your bite feels off, it’s probably time to see an orthodontist. We offer full orthodontic services in Curaçao.
Key Differences Between General Dentists and Orthodontists
Let’s compare them side by side.
| General Dentist | Orthodontist |
| Broad dental care | Focus on teeth alignment and jaw issues |
| Routine checkups, fillings, etc. | Braces, aligners, and bite correction |
| Sees patients of all ages | Often works with teens, but treats adults too |
| Can refer patients to orthodontists | Requires extra training (2–3 years) |
When Should We Visit an Orthodontist?
Not everyone needs orthodontic treatment, but here are a few signs we might:
- Crooked teeth or visible gaps
- Jaw pain or clicking sounds when chewing
- Teeth that don’t align when biting down
- Speech difficulties related to dental alignment
- Crowded teeth making it hard to brush properly
Kids should have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Adults can benefit from treatment too — it’s never too late to improve a smile.
Can a General Dentist Offer Braces?
Some general dentists may offer orthodontic services like Invisalign, but they don’t have the same level of training as a certified orthodontist. If we’re dealing with more complex bite or alignment issues, we’re better off seeing a specialist.
At Sta. Rosa Klinika Dental, we work as a team. Our general dentists and orthodontist collaborate, so patients always get the right care from the right expert.
Why Choose Sta. Rosa Klinika Dental in Curaçao?
We’re not just another dental clinic. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Full team including general dentists and an orthodontist
- Personalized treatment plans
- Staff who speak Papiamentu, Dutch, and English
- Modern equipment and a relaxed, clean space
- Located conveniently for locals and expats
Whether you need a routine cleaning or a full orthodontic plan, we’ve got you covered.
FAQ: Orthodontist vs. General Dentist
Can I go straight to an orthodontist without seeing a general dentist?
Yes, you can. If you know your concern is related to alignment or bite issues, feel free to book an appointment directly with an orthodontist. However, a general dentist may spot issues early and refer you.
Are orthodontic treatments covered by insurance in Curaçao?
Coverage varies depending on your insurance provider and the type of treatment. Braces are sometimes partially covered, especially for children. We recommend checking with your insurer first.
Do general dentists and orthodontists work together?
They often do. A general dentist may do the initial check-up and refer complex cases to the orthodontist. Good clinics — like ours — encourage this teamwork approach.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
It depends on the case. Some people wear braces for a year, others for two or more. Clear aligners also vary depending on how much movement is needed. We’ll explain it all in your consultation.
Is there a difference in cost between visiting a general dentist and an orthodontist?
Yes. Specialist treatments, like those offered by an orthodontist, tend to cost more because of the training involved and the complexity of treatment. But a consultation can help you understand what’s needed — and what’s not.
Conclusion
Knowing the difference between a general dentist and an orthodontist can help us make smarter choices for our dental health. A general dentist is our go-to for everyday care, while an orthodontist steps in when things need to shift — literally.
At Sta. Rosa Klinika Dental in Curaçao, we’ve got both professionals under one roof. Whether you need a cleaning, a filling, or a new smile with braces, we’re here to help — in Papiamentu, Dutch, and English.
