Dentists: A Specialty For Every Concern

There are a number of certified specialty dentists. Here is a breakdown of what each type does.
Whether you have a toothache, need to have your teeth straightened or just need a check-up and cleaning there are many types of dentists available. There is so much variety in needs and treatment options today that it is possible to see a specialist who knows the most possible about your specific problem. The American Dental Association recognizes nine specialties.

Pediatrics
Pediatric dentists focus on the problems and treatment of children. They generally utilize a more gentle hand and use materials and products geared towards kids. They put a real emphasis on instilling good oral hygiene at an early age so as to avoid problems later in life.

Endodontics
These doctors are specialized in the field of the root and other interior tissues of the tooth. These are the ones to see when you need a root canal or crack a tooth. They also treat diseased or infected tissues.

Public Health Dentists
Public health dentistry deals with the needs of communities and cities rather than treating individual patients. These specialists are the ones who enact such things as fluoridating the water or promote new habits like using mouthwash or recommending new tips for improved oral health and prevention of tooth decay.

Periodontics
This field studies gums the bones of the mouth and other supporting structures of the teeth. Their main focus is on preventing diseases like gingivitis and treating any loss of structure. They install dental implants and do tissue grafts.

Prosthodontics
Later in life many people will need to go see a prosthodontist. These dentists specialize in the creation and installation of dentures and bridges. They are the people to see to have restoration work done on your smile.

Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology
These doctors study and diagnose diseases of the mouth and face. They occasionally work in treatment but their primary concern is developing treatment and diagnosis tools for these problems. They study such problems as bad breath, cold and canker sores and different mouth cancers.

Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
These physicians take and interpret x-rays and other imaging technology. They use these images to help diagnose problems and predict future dental care needs.

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
These surgeons are experts in the removal and surgical correction of issues of the head, neck, jaw and face. They provide extraction of teeth and also reconstruction of lost tissue in the mouth.

Orthodontics
An orthodontist is concerned with proper alignment of the smile and bite. They use a variety of appliances like braces and retainers to realign the teeth.

All of these dentists are experts in their fields and are able to treat a large number of problems and concerns. If you have any concerns that any of the above specialties address don’t hesitate to contact one in your area. There are a number of good resources for these types of medical professionals.