Skip to content
No1 The Orthodontic Specialists
Book Free ConsultCall 01332 514 893

Patient information · Choosing who treats you

Orthodontist vs Dentist: the Difference

What we do differs greatly from the care your dentist provides you.

Book a free consultationMeet our specialists

4.9from 146 Google reviewsTwo consultant orthodontists, both Chapman Prize winners
Dr Anne-Marie Smith, consultant orthodontist, in purple scrubs
Dr Anne-Marie Smith · consultant orthodontist

Side by side

Orthodontist vs dentist

At No1 The Orthodontic Specialists we specialise in creating stunning smiles using the latest technology and a range of teeth straightening appliances; choosing the system that will work best for you and suit your lifestyle. We believe it’s important you understand the difference between what we do and what your dentist does for you.

Orthodontist compared with Consultant Orthodontist compared with Dentist
ComparisonOrthodontistConsultant OrthodontistDentist
Qualifications & Memberships
Bachelor of Dental Surgery (5 years)✓✓✓
Master of Orthodontics (MOrth) (3 years)✓✓—
Consultant Orthodontist training (FDS Orth RCS) (2 years)—✓—
Treatments & Services
General 6-month check-up——✓
Fillings & extractions——✓
Cleaning & polishing——✓
Advises on overall oral health of teeth and gums✓✓✓
Fitting of orthodontic appliances, such as braces & Invisalign aligners✓✓Some general dentists may fit braces and Invisalign but they are not specialists in orthodontics
Treats the full range of problems, from simple to complex—✓—
Experience & Training
Is specifically trained in the movement of teeth and bite issues✓✓—
Recommends and treats patients after assessing overall facial profile✓✓—
Uses the latest in orthodontic technology for the benefit of patients✓✓—
Attends regular training on developments in the orthodontic industry✓✓—

Why a specialist orthodontist

Same aligners. Different training.

Braces and clear aligners are sold by general dentists and high-street chains too. What you are really choosing is who plans your bite.

“Just as you’d see an orthopaedic surgeon for a knee replacement, there’s value in seeing a specialist for orthodontic treatment. Your dentist cares for your overall dental health; we specialise in straightening teeth and improving how they bite together. It’s what we do every day.”

Dr Anjli Patel · Consultant & Specialist Orthodontist
  • 3 yrsof full-time specialist training after dental school, before joining the GDC specialist list
  • +2 yrsmore to become a consultant — the level that treats the region’s most complex cases
  • Whole biteplanned first, not just the front six teeth — where many re-treatments begin
  • 7 systemsfixed, ceramic, lingual, Iconix®, Invisalign®, Spark and Angel — chosen for your bite

Three questions to ask anyone offering you braces

  1. Are you on the GDC specialist list for orthodontics?
  2. How often do you treat cases like mine — and who mentors you?
  3. If this were you, what would you do?

Some general dentists do orthodontics well, and the good ones refer to us when a case needs a specialist. If you have been offered braces elsewhere, it is worth getting a specialist second opinion before you commit.

From our specialists

In our specialists’ words

Anne-Marie puts it plainly: a general dentist is usually taught to get the front six teeth straight, and the smile matters — but so does the bite, and straightening the front teeth alone can make the bite worse. Anjli adds that the cases that look easy can be the hardest to finish well, because the bite still has to be coordinated. Both stress that this is not a blanket criticism: some dentists take a real interest in orthodontics, and the good ones know their limitations and refer on. If you are unsure, get a second opinion — it either changes the plan or reassures you.

A consultant orthodontist has trained for at least two further years beyond specialist level and treats the most complex cases — jaw surgery, cleft lip and palate, airway problems — working alongside surgeons and other hospital specialists. Both of No1’s principals are hospital consultants as well as practice owners, so patients who need that level of care do not have to be sent elsewhere.

What happens next

What happens when you come to see us

Book a free consultationMore about your first visit

  1. A chat first

    Your first visit starts with a conversation, not a chair. Before you come in we send a short video of the practice and an email explaining the day, so nothing is a surprise.

  2. Photographs and a full assessment

    We take photographs of your smile and bite, then carry out a full clinical assessment. Where needed we take X-rays or a digital scan with our iTero scanner — no messy moulds.

  3. Your options, explained honestly

    We break the findings down into options: the ideal plan, a compromise, or accepting your bite as it is. We talk to the patient, not just the parent, and guide the decision rather than make it for you.

  4. A written plan and a fixed price

    We then talk your bespoke treatment plan and all-inclusive quotation through with you, in person or virtually — appointments, emergencies, retainers and a year of follow-up included — and you have time to decide.

4.9146 Google reviews

Reviews from Google

What our patients say

  • tris santos1 day ago · Google

    Beatriz Porto No.1 orthodontist literally lifted up my confidence, they were very precise with how I wanted my teeth to look and they turned out absolutely amazing. The team is so caring and they make you feel so comfortable would definitely recommend to my family and friends if they ever need their teeth perfect.

  • Hester James6 weeks ago · Google

    My daughter had complex dental issues which meant first a removable brace when she was very young then fixed braces as a teen. Now 7 years later she's happy and confident with her teeth. Everyone at No1 was fantastic. During COVID she was still only 10 years old but their reassurance meant she happily went into her appointment without any parents. All the technicians are brilliant, I love the way all staff input is listened to regardless of their level. Makes for a great outcome for my daughter. Thank you so much.

  • Lisa Owen2 months ago · Google

    The girls at No.1 have been incredible throughout the entire process of my braces journey! I have been coming here for 2+ years & they have been amazing with every moment! I have had no complaints & problems whith No.1 at all, even when i had any slight issue with the brace itself, i went straight back to No.1 and they fixed it with no issue’s! I am incredibly grateful for the support that they have all given me & for making me love my smile again! thankyou so much girls!🫶🏻

  • liz maxwell3 months ago · Google

    At 64 years old, I wondered if the 2 years plus aligner plan, was doable or worth it. I took the plunge and I am really pleased with the results. Anjli gave my a lot of information and time for me to make my decision and I found it an easy process to go through. No one ever noticed my clear aligners. Laura was my main contact who oversaw my treatment and she's really easy to ask any questions as you go through treatment, always felt I was in safe hands and is very positive in her approach to get the best outcome for you, so just do it 😀

  • Reyhan Malik4 months ago · Google

    Had a wonderful experience for my 3 year braces journey with the Dental nurses all being friendly and easy going. Most importantly, my teeth problems have been fixed amazingly well.

  • Anthony Clarke4 months ago · Google

    I had a very positive experience with No. 1 Orthodontist in Mickleover. From my initial consultation onwards, the entire team was friendly, professional, and welcoming. The orthodontists took the time to explain the treatment process and answer all of my questions, making me feel informed and comfortable throughout my time as a patient. I chose Angel Aligners and was very impressed with the care, attention, and support I received from the team. Unfortunately, due to personal circumstances, I was unable to complete my treatment. However, my experience with the practice was excellent from start to finish, and I was always treated with kindness, professionalism, and respect. I would happily recommend No. 1 Orthodontist to anyone considering orthodontic treatment and would like to thank the whole team for their outstanding service.

  • Stacey Robinson5 months ago · Google

    My Daughter has had the most amazing experience with her braces .. all staff from reception team to orthodontist have been amazing . They made Lillie feel comfortable and reassured of process at all stages .. thank you so much for bringing Lillie’s smile back

  • Lorna Robinson6 months ago · Google

    Visited for the first time today with my daughter who suffers with anxiety. This first visit was fantastic and delivered with empathy and kindness as well as informative and what our options would be..My daughter was so relieved, thankyou 🙏

Showing 8 of 116

Free consultation

Book your free consultation today.

Enter your details below to book a no-obligation consultation with our treatment coordinator.

  • Free and no-obligation, with our Treatment Coordinator
  • Talk through the options and the costs
  • Your written plan and quotation follow, in person or virtually
Are you a
Is this consult for an adult or child?

Please complete this field.

Please complete this field.

Please complete this field.

Please complete this field.

Please complete this field.

Call NowBook OnlineWhatsApp

Start WhatsApp Chat!

No waiting on hold. Ask questions, book appointments, and get answers in real time.

Are you a
Is this enquiry for an adult or child?

Please complete this field.

Please complete this field.

Please complete this field.

Please complete this field.

Or message us directly on WhatsApp