When it comes to achieving and maintaining a healthy smile, two dental specialties often come into focus: orthodontics and general dentistry. While both are essential for your oral health, they serve different purposes. Understanding these differences can help you decide which type of dental care in Muncie IN best meets your needs.

What is General Dentistry?

A general dentist in Muncie IN, is your go-to provider for everyday dental care. They focus on diagnosing, treating, and preventing common oral health problems for patients of all ages.

Services provided by a general dentist include:

• Routine checkups and cleanings
• Dental fillings for cavities
• Same-day crowns and bridges
• Gum disease treatment (including LANAP therapy)
• Tooth extractions and oral sedation for anxiety relief
• Cosmetic treatments like teeth whitening and veneers

General dentists often act as the primary care provider for your oral health, helping you maintain strong teeth and gums year-round.

What is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a dental specialty focused on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. An orthodontist receives additional training beyond dental school to treat these complex issues.

Common orthodontic services include:

• Traditional braces
• Clear aligners (such as Invisalign®)
• Retainers
• Space maintainers for children
• Jaw alignment treatments

Orthodontic care isn’t just about aesthetics. It also improves bite function, reduces jaw discomfort, and makes cleaning your teeth easier, which can help prevent decay and gum disease.

Key Differences Between Orthodontics and General Dentistry in Muncie IN

While both fields aim to improve your oral health, the main difference lies in their focus:

• General dentistry covers a wide range of basic and advanced dental services in Yorktown IN to keep your mouth healthy.
• Orthodontics specializes in straightening teeth, aligning jaws, and correcting bite problems.

Think of your general dentist as your “family doctor” for oral health, and your orthodontist as the “specialist” you see for alignment and bite issues.

When to See a General Dentist vs. an Orthodontist

You should see your general dentist regularly (ideally every six months) for preventive care and early detection of issues. If your dentist notices crooked teeth, overcrowding, or bite misalignment, they may refer you to an orthodontist.

See a general dentist for:

• Routine cleanings
• Fillings and crowns
• Tooth pain or dental emergencies
• Cosmetic dental work

See an orthodontist for:

• Crooked or crowded teeth
• Overbite, underbite, or crossbite
• Gaps between teeth
• Jaw alignment concerns

A dental professional explains treatment options to a patient to help them make informed decisions about their oral health.

Comprehensive Care at Royal Family Dentistry

At Royal Family Dentistry, we provide both general dentistry and orthodontic services under one roof. Whether you need a routine exam or are considering braces or clear aligners, our team ensures your treatment plan is customized to your needs.

From same-day crowns to orthodontic care in Muncie, Yorktown, Union City, and surrounding areas in Indiana, we make it simple to maintain your oral health and achieve your smile goals. All in a comfortable, family-friendly environment.

Call Royal Family Dentistry today to schedule your appointment and discover whether general dentistry, orthodontics, or a combination of both is the right path for your best smile. Serving Muncie, Yorktown, Union City, and surrounding areas.