Jun 19, 2026
Orthodontics, Orthodontist, Orthodentist? What the Terms Actually Mean
If you have searched for “ortho,” “orthodontics,” or even “orthodentist,” you are not alone. These words get mixed up all the time, and that can make starting treatment feel confusing.
This guide clears it up in plain language. You will learn what orthodontics means, what an Orthodontist does, why extra specialist training matters, and how modern tools like iTero scans, 3D simulations and virtual check-ins can make treatment more precise and more convenient.
Throughout, we will share how our Specialist Orthodontists at Auckland City Orthodontics plan care for busy lives across Auckland.
What Orthodontics Actually Means
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that diagnoses, prevents and treats problems with the position of teeth and jaws. In short, it is about the way your teeth meet when you bite and how your smile is aligned.
An orthodontic problem can be as visible as crowded or spaced teeth, or as subtle as a bite that strains your jaw. Orthodontics addresses both the look and the function of your smile, which is why people often notice benefits that go beyond straighter teeth, such as easier cleaning and more comfortable chewing.
Ortho vs Orthodontics
“Ortho” is simply shorthand people use in conversation, similar to saying “physio” for physiotherapy.
Orthodontics is the correct term for the specialty. When you see “ortho,” think of it as casual speak; when you read “orthodontics,” you are seeing the formal name of the discipline.
Orthodontist, Not Orthodentist
The correct professional title is Orthodontist.
“Orthodentist” has slipped into popular use because it sounds close to “dentist,” but it is not a recognised title.
Dentist
Completes a dental degree and looks after general oral health, fillings, hygiene, check-ups and many other essential services.
Orthodontist
First qualifies as a dentist, then completes several additional years of full-time specialist training at university in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopaedics.
In New Zealand, Specialist Orthodontists are registered with the Dental Council in the orthodontic scope of practice.
That extra training focuses on diagnosing bite issues, planning tooth and jaw movement safely, and delivering treatments like braces and clear aligners.
When you choose a Specialist Orthodontist, you are choosing care that is specialist-led from diagnosis through to retention.
Why Specialist Training Matters
Teeth move through living bone. That makes planning forces, sequencing movements and protecting roots, gums and jaw joints a specialist task.
Here is what extra training and daily focus typically mean for you:
- A precise diagnosis with digital records that show angles, widths and bite relationships.
- A tailored plan that sequences movements in safe, predictable steps.
- Monitoring that adjusts your plan as your teeth respond, not a one-size-fits-all script.
- A stable finish with a retention strategy to help your result last.
At Auckland City Orthodontics, our Specialist Orthodontists use iTero digital scans to create accurate 3D models of your teeth, then plan outcomes with 3D simulations you can preview before treatment begins.
This specialist-led digital workflow helps reduce surprises and supports well-sequenced movement whether you choose braces or clear aligners.
How Modern Orthodontics Works Today
Digital tools have changed the orthodontic experience.
Here is what that looks like in practice:
iTero Scans
A small wand captures a fast, comfortable scan of your teeth - no gooey impressions needed. You can see a detailed 3D model on-screen.
3D Simulations
Your clinician can show options and predicted outcomes, then use that model to plan the exact stages of tooth movement.
Virtual Check-Ins
For many aligner cases, we review progress using secure photos or guided scans between in-practice visits. This typically means fewer trips to the clinic, which suits work, study and travel schedules.
These tools improve comfort, accuracy and convenience.
You still receive hands-on care in our clinics for key appointments, but routine reviews can be faster and more flexible.
If you want a discreet, removable approach, you can explore Invisalign® and other clear aligner systems in our clear aligners overview.
To see how aligners compare with braces, or to get started with aligners in Auckland, you can read more in our guide to clear aligners.
We also provide traditional metal and tooth-coloured ceramic braces for comprehensive control when that suits your bite best.
Braces and Clear Aligners - Which Is Right for You?
Both braces and clear aligners move teeth by applying light, controlled forces over time.
The better option depends on your diagnosis and lifestyle.
Clear Aligners
Near-invisible trays you remove to eat and drink anything other than water. They are popular with adults and teens who want a low-profile option and fewer in-person visits supported by virtual check-ins.
Braces
Brackets and wires that stay on teeth, ideal for a wide range of cases, including some complex bites. Available as metal or tooth-coloured ceramic.
During your consultation, we complete an iTero scan, discuss goals and show predicted outcomes for each option.
You will leave with a clear plan for treatment, timing and retention.
If you are comparing costs, our pricing overview explains what typically influences fees in Auckland and how flexible payment plans can help you budget.
Your Treatment Journey at Auckland City Orthodontics
Consultation
Virtual or in-practice. We scan, assess your bite and discuss goals.
You receive transparent guidance on options, typical timelines and inclusions.
Planning
We create a bespoke plan using your 3D records.
You can preview predicted outcomes before we begin.
Active Treatment
Braces or aligners guide your teeth toward the planned finish.
Virtual check-ins can reduce in-clinic visits where appropriate.
Retention
We protect your new smile with a tailored retainer plan and review schedule.
We have four Auckland locations and offer appointment times that work around work, school, sport and travel whenever possible.
Ready to Get Started?
Book your consultation with our Specialist Orthodontists.
Quick FAQ on Common Word Mix-Ups
What Does Orthodontic Mean?
Orthodontic refers to anything relating to orthodontics, the dental specialty that corrects tooth and jaw alignment.
What Is the Difference Between Ortho and Orthodontics?
“Ortho” is casual shorthand people use. “Orthodontics” is the proper name of the specialty.
Why Is It Orthodontist and Not Orthodentist?
Orthodontist is the correct, protected title for a dental specialist with extra years of university training in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopaedics.
“Orthodentist” is not a recognised term.
Do I Need a Specialist Orthodontist for Clear Aligners?
Aligners can seem simple, but safe, predictable tooth movement relies on expert diagnosis, planning and dental monitoring.
A Specialist Orthodontist designs and oversees your care.
Will Digital Scans Replace In-Clinic Visits Entirely?
No. Digital tools support precision and convenience, and virtual check-ins can reduce the number of visits, but some appointments are still in-practice to ensure quality and safety.
The Takeaway
Orthodontics is the specialty focused on how teeth and jaws align.
An Orthodontist is a dentist who has completed additional years of specialist training to diagnose, plan and guide tooth movement safely.
Modern orthodontics uses iTero scans, 3D simulations and virtual check-ins to improve precision and reduce visits, whether you choose clear aligners or braces.
If you want clarity on your options and a plan that fits your routine, book your free consultation with our Specialist Orthodontists.