We understand that navigating dental care can be confusing - why are there so many types of dentists, and who should you see for what? From general dentists to specialists, each provider plays a unique and significant role in keeping your smile healthy. Let’s break down the different kinds of dental professionals, and what they do.
General Dentists
General dentists are your primary dental care providers. They handle a wide range of dental services, including routine check-ups, cleanings, fillings, and preventative care. They are the first line of defense against oral health issues and can refer you to specialists if needed.
- Routine Check-ups
- Cleanings
- Preventative Care
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMS) are specialists trained to diagnose and perform surgical procedures involving the mouth, jaw, and face. They perform complex extractions, such as wisdom teeth removal, dental implant placements, and corrective jaw surgeries. Their practice in surgical residency equipped them to handle both routine and highly complex cases.
- Wisdom Teeth Removal
- Dental Implants and Bone Grafting
- Full mouth extractions
- Corrective Jaw Surgery
- TMJ Disorders and Surgery
- Oral Pathology
- and more! See all procedures here.
Orthodontists
Orthodontists focus on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. They use braces, clear aligners, and other orthodontic appliances to straighten teeth and improve bite alignment. Orthodontic treatment can enhance both the function and appearance of your smile. Common treatments include:
- Braces and Clear Aligners
- Palatal Expanders
- Retainers
- Space Maintainers
- Jaw Growth Modification
Periodontists
Periodontists specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease. They manage conditions affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Treatments may include the following:
- Scaling and Root Planning
- Gum Grafts
- Pocket Reduction Surgery
- Crown Lengthening
- Dental implants & Bone Grafting
Endodontists
Endodontists are specialists in diagnosing and treating tooth pain related to dental pulp and root canals. Their expertise focus on saving natural teeth through advanced procedures that address infections, decay, and trauma affecting the inner tissues of teeth. Common treatments include:
- Root Canal Therapy
- Retreatment of Root Canals
- Root-End Surgery
- Pulpotomy and Pulpectomy
- Pain Diagnosis and Management
- Treatment of Dental Trauma
Prosthodontists
Prosthodontists specialize in restoring and replacing missing or damaged teeth to improve both function and aesthetics. They create custom dental prosthetics to enhance patients’ smiles. Common treatments include:
- Dental Crowns
- Bridges
- Dentures
- Cosmetic Restorations
- Dental Implants
- Full-Mouth Restoration
Pediatric Dentists
Pediatric dentists specialize in the oral health of children from infancy through adolescence ensuring young patients receive gentile, age-appropriate care. They focus on prevention, education, and treatment while helping children develop lifelong healthy oral hygiene habits. Treatments include:
- Infant Oral Exams
- Preventative Care and Assessments
- Cavity Treatment and Fillings
- Education and Habit Counseling
Each type of dental specialist plays a vital role in maintaining and improving oral health. Whether you need routine care, specialized treatment, or surgical intervention, understanding the different types of dental experts can help you make an informed decision about your dental care.
We are here to help you achieve your healthiest, happiest smile. If you have any questions, contact us.
Informative Links
What is an OMS? - https://youtu.be/fhFrMWhfSZU
OMS or Dentist? https://myoms.org/why-choose-an-oms/oms-or-dentist/