An overview of the different types of dentists and the work they perform. There can be more variation than you think in this industry!
Getting your teeth checked occasionally is one of the best things you can do for your overall health and finding the appropriate dentist for the work you need is sometimes a tough endeavor. There are many different types of dentists and the work you need may require more than just what a general dentist can do,
but a specialist, such as a orthodontist, periodontist, prosthodontist, or an endodontist, may be required.
Dentists that practice general dentistry concentrate on anything related to the mouth. These include the basic diagnosis or problems relating to the gums and teeth. They also may treat any problems that they find in a regular exam, such as filling cavities, and encouraging patients to continue performing regular care such as brushing and flossing. They can also refer the patient to the necessary specialist if one is needed.
If your general dentist diagnoses you as having a potential problem you’re your bite, he may refer you to a specialist called an orthodontist. Most orthodontic procedures include braces and retainers, which are used to move teeth slowly to their proper position in the mouth. The orthodontist corrects crooked teeth, which most often helps in ones ability to eat and talk properly. An orthodontic evaluation can take place as early as age 7 to plan ahead for future intervention.
If you need tooth repair in an emergency, you will more than likely see an endodontist. This is the tooth doctor who treats the root and pulp of the tooth. This type of dentist performs root canals and implants false teeth after teeth have been removed. Many times general dentists have gone through the additional training to perform the endodontic procedures.
One of the most specialized fields for dentists to get into is prosthodontics. This is the cosmetic alteration of teeth by fitting them with crowns, bridges, and dentures. Usually this type of procedure is performed on patients who have lost whole sections of teeth and is usually the most effective investment. There are some types that are done without surgery and most patients are happy with the results. Regular dental visits can often prevent these types of procedures.
If you don’t take care of your teeth properly, gum disease is quite possible. Dentists who study and work with diseases of the mouth are called periodontists. The most common type of mouth infection that they deal with is called gingivitis, which leads to peridontivitis, which then leads to the eventual rotting and loss of teeth if not treated properly. Often surgery is required, which is performed by a periodontist. A general dentist can recommend a periodontist for you based on your specific needs. Periodontivitis that is not treated properly can eventually lead to heart problems and a heart attack, so if you are sent to a periodontist by your regular dentist then it is very important that you go.
Though not formally recognized by the American Dental Association, many orthodontists and prosthodontists also perform what is called cosmetic dentistry. They have studied all the latest procedures that create white smooth teeth. Sometimes they can provide the patient with the veneers, crowns, and whiten teeth as needed. Sometimes they can provide changes to the gums to make the teeth appear straighter.
Though there are many types of dentist, the best way to avoid seeing a specialist is to take care of your teeth and have regular exams and x-rays, so that the proper preventative maintenance can be done.
