9 Types Of Dental Specialists For All Your Oral Problems
The field of dentistry is more specialized than ever before, with dental specialists such as orthodontists, prosthodontists, and many more.
Numerous categories exist that separate the types of treatment and skills offered by each category of dental specialists.
When you see a comprehensive dental group, you will most likely have the luxury of your dentist being able to handle one or more of the items below.
If not, since they are already familiar with your health and oral history, they will be in a good position to refer you out to someone that they think will do a good job for you.
Below is a breakdown of different types of dental specialists and the problems they treat.
Types Of Dental Specialists
Here are 9 types of dentists, each of them treating a different oral problem:
1. Regular Dental Checkup And Cleaning
A general family dentist is a type that most people think of when considering getting dental care.
A general dentist is the one that performs your routine checkups and monitors your teeth for the development of cavities and can refer you to another type of specialist when the need arises.
Teeth cleaning and whitening can all take place in the office of the family dentist.
2. Oral X-Ray
Dentists that specialize in oral radiology are the ones that do the imaging necessary to prepare for certain procedures.
It is also possible to find out if there is a problem anywhere in the oral and maxillofacial area of the body.
An oral radiology specialist assists in the total treatment of a patient.
3. Mouth And Jaw Surgical Procedures
The need for surgical procedures will send you to the offices of dentists that are well trained in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
It is necessary to have an experienced surgeon for tooth implants, jaw surgery, surgical tooth extractions, and any other treatment that requires surgical expertise and knowledge.
Being trained at a hospital, they are familiar with all of the latest techniques in providing relief and the cosmetic improvement of conditions connected with the oral cavity.
4. Braces And Jaw Alignment Problems
An orthodontist is a dentist that is an expert at how the jaw works and recognizes problems in alignment.
A person with a jaw that is not in the right alignment can experience a great deal of pain from basic oral activities like eating, drinking, and talking.
Aligning the jaw correctly and fixing crooked teeth are often managed with the help of braces.
An orthodontist can generally treat both children and adults.
5. Gum Inflammation And Gum Disease
Unhealthy gums can lead to premature tooth loss and infections of the jaw. A dentist that specializes in gum health and disease is called a periodontist.
A periodontist can perform tooth implant surgeries, gum skin grafts, and other procedures that help keep your mouth and teeth healthy.
Along with providing treatment for existing gum disease, a periodontist can suggest ways of improving gum health if you are at risk of disease.
6. Pediatric Dentists
Children can be fearful of dental visits. Pediatric dentists are able to help a child feel at ease when performing routine cleaning, checkups, and cavity repairs.
The offices are usually designed to be kid-friendly, filled with colorful pictures and a welcoming environment.
It’s a good idea to have your child see a pediatric dentist for the first few years of their life.
7. Dental Implants, Veneers, Crowns, Dentures, And Bridges
A prosthodontist is a dentist that helps you with oral cosmetic procedures like veneers and crowns.
It’s also your best source of teeth implants, especially when you are seeking to replace numerous natural teeth. Creating correct fitting dentures is another area where a prosthodontist excels.
Any situation that has caused the loss of one or more teeth can be managed and improved under the care of one of these dental specialists.
8. Root Canals
The endodontist is a dental specialist that is knowledgeable about the inner part of the tooth, the pulp. The pulp is sensitive, living tissue housed within the hard enamel part of the tooth.
It’s the job of the endodontist to attempt to salvage this part of the tooth when it has been injured or harmed by disease. If not, it’s removed through a procedure called a root canal.
9. Oral Disease Diagnosis And Treatment
An oral pathologist is a mix of dental expert and medical doctor for the oral and maxillofacial area.
The correct diagnosis for oral infections and cancers falls on this professional to ensure the right treatment takes place.
An oral pathologist can diagnose and treat everything from oral lesions, cuts, and injury to the most aggressive forms of oral cancer.
No matter what your oral health needs are, there is a dental specialist that can provide the help you need.
You now have a better view of what type of dental specialist you might need to visit for a healthier, brighter smile.
