CG Orthodontics Explains: The Difference Between a Dentist and an Orthodontist
Table of Contents
Introduction
Welcome to CG Orthodontics
Orthodontist vs. Dentist: What's the Real Difference?
How Much Training Does an Orthodontist Have?
Why Specialization Matters for Braces and Aligners
Benefits of Seeing an Orthodontist for Smile Correction
How We Diagnose and Plan Your Treatment Differently
Braces, Aligners, and Advanced Options with Expert Oversight
Common Misconceptions About Dentists Doing Orthodontics
The Risk of DIY or Non-Specialist Orthodontics
What to Expect When You Visit CG Orthodontics
Our Commitment to Precision and Patient-Centered Care
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions
Introduction: Transform your smile, Transform your life!
At CG Orthodontics, we believe every smile deserves expert care—and knowing the difference between a general dentist and a trained orthodontist is the first step in making the right decision for your treatment.
Dr. Cathleen George and
Dr. Jordan Cogan bring over
25 years of orthodontic experience to
Richboro and Yardley, Pennsylvania patients. While many dentists offer braces or aligners, only an orthodontist is trained to diagnose and correct bite issues precisely. Let's break down what sets orthodontists apart—and why it matters for your smile.
Welcome to CG Orthodontics
Serving the communities of
Richboro and Yardley, PA, CG Orthodontics is where advanced training meets compassionate care.
Our patients trust us because:
🎓 We bring over 25 years of orthodontic-only experience
🦷 We focus exclusively on braces and clear aligner treatment
🧑⚕️ You're treated directly by orthodontic specialists—Dr. George and Dr. Cogan
🌟 Our 5-star rating is backed by
400+ glowing reviews
📍 We offer modern treatment options for all ages
From teens in braces to adults using Invisalign®, we provide personalized care that leads to confident, long-lasting results.
Orthodontist vs. Dentist: What's the Real Difference?
Dentists and orthodontists care about oral health but focus on very different things.
Here's a breakdown:
🦷 Dentists handle general dental care like cleanings, fillings, and crowns
😁
Orthodontists specialize in correcting teeth and jaw alignment
📚 Orthodontists complete
2–3 additional years of specialized training beyond dental school
⚙️ Orthodontists use advanced tools and diagnostic techniques to move teeth safely and effectively
This extra training means we can manage complex bite issues, monitor growth patterns, and ensure your treatment is safe and effective at CG Orthodontics.
How Much Training Does an Orthodontist Have?
Becoming an orthodontist isn't just a continuation of dental school—it's a whole new level of specialization.
Here's the path:
🎓 4 years of undergraduate education
🦷
4 years of dental school (to become a general dentist)
🧠
2–3 additional years of orthodontic residency and training focused solely on tooth and jaw alignment
Orthodontists complete thousands of hours learning how to move teeth safely, manage facial growth, and handle complex bite cases. At CG Orthodontics,
Dr. George and Dr. Cogan bring this deep expertise to every patient, making a major difference in your comfort, treatment time, and results.
Why Specialization Matters for Braces and Aligners
Aligning teeth requires more than just applying pressure—it requires an understanding of biology, biomechanics, and growth patterns. That's where an orthodontist's training comes in.
Here's what sets us apart:
🎯 Custom bracket placement for better efficiency and results
💡 In-depth knowledge of facial development and tooth movement
📈 Treatment plans designed for long-term stability
🧑⚕️ Experience handling complex cases that general dentists may refer out
Whether you're getting braces or Invisalign®, having a specialist manage your care leads to more accurate, comfortable, and reliable outcomes.
Benefits of Seeing an Orthodontist for Smile Correction
Choosing an orthodontist like CG Orthodontics means choosing care built on precision and experience. We're not just adjusting teeth—we're transforming the foundation of your smile.
Here's what our patients gain:
🛡️ Safer, expert-monitored treatment
🧩 Customized solutions based on your facial structure
⏱️ Shorter treatment times due to smarter planning
🪞 Better, longer-lasting results you'll love to show off
At the end of the day, a straighter smile is also
healthier—and that's where our training truly shines.
How We Diagnose and Plan Your Treatment Differently
When you visit CG Orthodontics, your treatment plan starts with
comprehensive diagnostics, not guesswork.
We use:
🧠 3D imaging and digital scans to map every detail of your bite
🦷 Growth tracking tools for younger patients
📊 Digital models for precise treatment simulations
🤝 Personalized consultations to understand your goals
We aim to give you straighter teeth and a smile that perfectly fits
your face, bite, and lifestyle.
Braces, Aligners, and Advanced Options with Expert Oversight
Whether you're exploring
braces,
Invisalign®, or clear tray aligners, treatment from an orthodontist ensures the highest level of precision. At CG Orthodontics, we don't just offer these options—we master them.
Here's what you can expect:
🦷 Traditional braces with customized wire and bracket placement
✨
Clear braces for a more discreet, but powerful solution
😁
Invisalign® aligners
that fit perfectly and work efficiently
💻
Digital progress tracking to ensure your teeth are moving as planned
Every adjustment and aligner set is based on a carefully crafted, orthodontist-led plan—not a generalized estimate.
Common Misconceptions About Dentists Doing Orthodontics
It's easy to think that if a dentist offers braces or aligners, it's the same as seeing a specialist—but that's not the case.
Here's why:
❌ Dentists don't receive formal training in advanced tooth movement
⚠️ Treatments may be more generic or based on software rather than clinical experience
⏳ You may face longer treatment times or less predictable outcomes
😬 Complex cases could be misdiagnosed or inadequately managed
At CG Orthodontics, we correct many cases that began elsewhere, and we always encourage patients to start with a specialist trained to see the big picture.
The Risk of DIY or Non-Specialist Orthodontics
With the rise of online aligner companies and at-home kits, more patients are coming in with unexpected problems. Orthodontics is a medical treatment, not a DIY project.
Risks of non-specialist care include:
🚨 Incorrect tooth movement or root damage
❗ Worsened bite issues
😣 Gum recession or tooth instability
💸 Expensive corrections that could've been avoided
Your smile deserves expert attention. At CG Orthodontics, we provide
safe, effective treatment from doctors who do this every day.
What to Expect When You Visit CG Orthodontics
From your first appointment, you'll notice the CG difference. Our thorough, clear process will make you feel confident in your care.
Here's what we provide:
👋 A warm welcome from a friendly, experienced team
🖥️ State-of-the-art diagnostics including 3D imaging and digital scans
📈 A personalized treatment plan explained in simple, honest terms
✅ Flexible options for braces or aligners that match your lifestyle and goals
We don't just straighten teeth—we educate, support, and guide you through every stage of your smile journey.
Our Commitment to Precision and Patient-Centered Care
At CG Orthodontics, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional outcomes through personalized care. Every treatment we offer is designed with your health, comfort, and confidence in mind.
Here's what sets our approach apart:
🎓 Board-certified orthodontists with years of focused training
🧬 Treatment plans based on science, not software alone
🗣️ Honest, transparent communication at every step
👨👩👧👦 A family-friendly atmosphere where you're treated like one of our own
Whether you're a parent seeking care for your child or an adult ready for your own transformation, we're here to guide you toward a lifetime of better smiles.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist can completely change your treatment experience and results. At CG Orthodontics, we don't just offer orthodontic services—we live and breathe them. With specialized training, modern tools, and decades of focused experience, our team delivers safe, efficient, and beautifully aligned smiles that last.
When transforming your smile, you deserve more than a general approach. You deserve a team of experts who understand the science, respect the process, and prioritize your goals.
Let's create a smile that's not just straighter—but stronger, healthier, and completely you.
📍
Visit us in Richboro or Yardley, PA
📞 Call us at: 215-355-5995
🌐 Schedule online: teethstraight.com
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What's the biggest difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?
Orthodontists complete 2–3 years of additional training focused solely on aligning teeth and jaws—dentists do not.
2. Can a dentist safely provide braces or aligners?
It's best to see a trained orthodontist for optimal results, safety, and stability.
3. Are orthodontists more expensive than dentists?
Not necessarily! Orthodontists often provide faster, more efficient care, which may reduce the total cost over time.
4. Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist?
No referral is needed. You can call us directly to schedule a consultation.
5. What's the best treatment option: braces or clear aligners?
That depends on your unique smile and goals. We'll guide you through your options and help you choose what's best for your lifestyle and budget.
