How Are Ballroom Dancing Shoes Different From Regular High Heels?

Is there any real distinction between official “ballroom dancing” shoes and your standard high-heeled dress sandal? I know that they are different, but I’m wondering what makes them so special that people go to dance stores to buy ballroom dancing shoes.

My interest was piqued by my own sorry-looking high-heeled sandals. I’m going to a dance in April (for the first time – and to actually dance!) and my shoes are pretty flimsy. I’m wondering if they fall so short of dancing shoes that I’ll need to buy a new pair.