One must be familiar with the different dental specializations to choose the right dentist. For your convenience, here's a brief overview of these areas.
One or more board-certified dentists will likely own a general dental office. A general dentist is in a position to perform routine cleanings and oral exams. They may also work with technicians, dental therapists, and dental hygienists. Because oral hygiene directly impacts one's all-around health, a general dentist ensures patients stay focused on their oral hygiene.
Orthodontists are qualified to identify, correct, and prevent issues with teeth or jaw alignment. With their advanced training, they apply corrective devices like wires, retainers, and braces to the front teeth. Dentofacial Orthodontics is a separate section of Orthodontia. It deals with facial growth anomalies.
A Periodontist looks after the health and stability of gums and the teeth's supporting structures. General Dentists can direct patients to a Periodontist if they suspect advanced gum disease. Periodontists position, maintain and restore dental implants, in addition to providing remedies for gum disease.
The preservation and repair of teeth and the surrounding root tissues are the central concern of Endodontics. Endodontists are able to recognize and heal tooth pain due to trauma or decay. They also complete complex procedures such as root canals.
Prosthodontics is also known as Prosthetic Dentistry. It concentrates on restoring tooth function and oral health using synthetic substitutes such as dentures, crowns, and veneers. Complex cosmetic procedures are performed by Prosthodontists using their additional training.
A Pediatric Dentist can help maintain healthy teeth and general well-being. Pediatric Dentistry does not offer routine cleanings and exams for adults, only for children. These checks are intended to detect and prevent potential problems that may hinder children's growth or oral development.
The difference between General Dentistry and Dental Public Health is that General Dentists treat a person while Dental Public Health focuses on the community. Dental Public Health is a network of dentists explicitly selected to monitor community health concerns. They also establish industry standards.
A Dental Anesthesiologist can administer sedation during particular procedures in order to alleviate anxiety and discomfort. Because of their vast knowledge in pain management, and not just in dentistry, Dental Anesthesiologists can be found in dental offices and medical centers.
Oral and Maxillofacial Pathologists specialize in diagnosing and treating diseases that affect the mouth and other related structures. Head and Neck Pathologists is an alternative name for Oral and Maxillofacial Pathologists. These pathologists assess the clinical factors plus a patient's lifestyle to determine a cause.
Oral and Maxillofacial Radiologists analyze digital and traditional scans like CT and MRI to identify abnormalities and diseases in the mouth and head. Oral and Maxillofacial Radiologists have been trained in biology, radiation physics, and other related topics. Both dental offices and educational institutions have employed them.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Dentists treat trauma and diseases of the jaw, neck, and facial areas. This group of dentists usually starts their career in general medicine, then moves on to dentistry. They must be dedicated to their craft because the training for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery could last a decade or more.