Dentists: Different Types

Dentists are physicians who base their practice in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of conditions and diseases associated with the mouth, face, neck and jaw. While there are certainly quite a few types of dentists about, many people fail to realize the differences in each. In this article, we will provide some insight into the different sects of the dentistry field.

Pediatrics

Also referred to as paedondontics/pedodontics, this specialty bases its practice on the treatment of infants, younger children and teenagers. Pediatric dentists place a focus on teaching children quality dental habits at an early age while also providing the appropriate care throughout childhood. Most of these specialists must follow up their four years of dental education with an additional 2 or 3 years of pediatric schooling.

Endodontists

Endodontics places an emphasis on root canal therapy, focusing on the removal of untreatable dental pulp after it has become inflamed or infected. As with other specialists, these dentists must also complete an additional period of study post their initial 4 year dental degree.

Oral Surgeons

Also referred to as maxillofacial surgeons, these dental specialists are those who diagnose and treat a variety of injuries pertaining to the mouth, teeth, gums face and jaw. Most must complete a total of eight years of study in order to begin practicing with the typical 4 year degree, followed by a 4 year surgical residency. These dentists work on patients with facial trauma, those suffering from cancer, and those with congenital malformations.

Orthodontists

These physicians diagnose and treat patients with dental irregularities, including over/under bites, jaw alignments, and misaligned teeth. Common treatments include braces, Invisalign and retainers, depending on the specific condition. Orthodontists are required to complete a 2 to 3 year residency program on top of the usual typical 4 years of dental college.

Family Dentists

Perhaps the most common form of dental professional, a family dentist is one who provides a wide range of treatments to patients young and old. Some may indulge in a number of added specialties, such as pediatrics, sedation dentistry or orthodontics, depending on their individual goals and training. Many people visit a general oral physician twice per year for cleanings, with additional visits contingent upon the condition of the patient’s oral health. Common procedures include general checkups, cleanings, fillings and teeth whitening, though this tends to vary per practice.

If you or someone you know are currently looking for a dentist in your area, there are quite a few resources available to you. From friend and family recommendations to online reviews, there is never a shortage of useful information to help you in making a decision regarding an oral physician. Take the time to review any available information you can find and make sure to make a decision which is based primarily on the comfort level you feel with the candidates in question. While there are quite a few options available to you, you can rest assured that there will always be someone out there who fits your ideal model of an oral physician. Best of luck!