The first step to finding the right dentists is understanding dentistry's various areas and specializations. Review the below as we break down the differences for you.
A general dental office can be run by one or more dentists who are licensed and board-certified. Patients see a general dentist for routine cleanings or exams. They might also collaborate with other professionals, such as dental hygienists. A general dentist can teach patients about oral hygiene because oral health directly impacts overall health.
Orthodontists are educated to diagnose, prevent, and correct teeth and jaw alignment issues. They can apply wires, retainers, and braces as correction devices due to their advanced schooling. Dentofacial Orthodontics, a specialty in Orthodontics, focuses on facial growth anomalies.
A Periodontist's primary focus is on the health and stability of your gums and teeth. After being diagnosed with advanced gum disease, general dentists refer patients for treatment to a Periodontist. Periodontists receive additional training to manage periodontal disease and place, maintain, and restore dental implants.
The dentistry field that focuses on saving teeth and their surrounding roots tissues is called Endodontics. Endodontists can diagnose tooth pain caused by neglect or trauma and use their advanced skills for complex procedures like root canals.
Prosthetic Dentistry can otherwise be called Prosthodontics. This field of dentistry concentrates on the restoration of teeth function and oral soundness using synthetic substitutes like dentures, crowns, or veneers. These intricate cosmetic techniques are possible because of the highly specialized skills of the Prosthodontist.
Routine visits to a Pediatric Dentist can help young people and children maintain healthy teeth, which in turn supports their overall health. Pediatric Dentistry provides regular cleanings and exams to identify and prevent problems that may affect children's development and growth.
Dental Public Health is unlike general dentistry because it doesn't treat only the individual. Specific dentists are chosen to be part of the Dental Public Health sector, which strives to improve the overall wellness in a community. These specific dentists are responsible for creating industry standards and assessing situations in order to identify any public health concerns within the community.
Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology Dentists diagnose and treat diseases of the mouth and related structures. Oral & Maxillofacial Pathologists (also known as Head & Neck Pathologists) will assess the patient's lifestyle and scientific factors to determine the root cause.
Oral & Maxillofacial Radiologists interpret digital and conventional scans such as CT and MRI to identify abnormalities and diseases in the head and mouth. Oral & Maxillofacial Radiologists have advanced training in radiation, safety, biology, and radiation physics. They work in dental offices as well as educational institutions.
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Dentists deal with trauma and diseases in the jaw, neck, and facial areas. This group of dentists typically starts in general medicine and turns their focus to dentistry. This training can be lengthy, so Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons must show dedication to their craft.
An experienced Dental Anesthesiologist provides sedation or anesthesia to patients during specific procedures to alleviate anxiety and discomfort. They are proficient in pain management of the whole body and can be employed in dental offices and medical centers because of their extensive knowledge.