6 Different Types of Dentists You Should Know About

Whenever you have to deal with dental problems, such as a moving tooth, caries, or a toothache, the first thing that pops in your mind is to “give the dentist a visit” – and that’s the way to go. However, did you know that there are different types of dentists and types of dentistry? Yes, there are dental specialists, who take care of your specific dental or oral needs.

So, next time you face a dental problem, you’ll know which types of dentists you’ll have to visit:

1. ENDODONTIST

If root canal therapy is what you’re in need of, an endodontist is a specialist who you want to see. These dental professionals have undergone extensive specialized training in this particular field of dentistry. They have extensive knowledge when it comes to the morphology, physiology, and pathology of the human dental pulp, and the periradicular tissues.

Endodontists also specialize in the prevention and treatment of diseases and injuries of the inner workings of the teeth.

2. PEDIATRIC DENTIST

A pediatric dentist treats and prevents dental diseases among children. In most cases, you visit these specialists when your little ones have tooth problems. It is highly recommended that you visit pediatric dentists since they specialize in the dental development of children, from infancy through their teenage years. They also work closely with family physicians, pediatricians, and other dental specialists to ensure that they provide comprehensive and the best medical and dental care for children.

3. ORTHODONTIST

If maligned bites, gaps, moving or crooked teeth are your main concerns, the specialist who you should visit is the orthodontist. They specialize in the development, prevention, and correction of teeth, bite, and jaw irregularities. They are also trained in treating facial abnormalities and jaw disorders. In most cases, you will visit the orthodontist after you get a referral from your general dentist.

4. PERIODONTIST

These dental experts specialize in the care and prevention of problems and diseases related to the gums, dental implants, and guided bone regeneration. This field deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of particular diseases that may affect the supporting and surrounding tissues of the teeth or their substitutes, like dentures. Also, periodontists have a vast knowledge when it comes to the maintenance of the health, function, and aesthetics of these structures and issues. They also specialize in the treatment of periodontitis, otherwise known as advanced gum disease.

5. PROSTHODONTIST

Prosthodontists specialize in the restoration or/and replacement of broken teeth with crowns, bridges or prosthetics that are removable. These professionals are trained in the preservation of a healthy mouth and they also know how the create tooth replacements.

The prosthodontists have also received specialized training in post oral cancer reconstruction, jaw joint problems, traumatic mouth injuries, alongside with snoring and sleeping disorders.

6. ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGEON

These specialist deal with treating a wide variety of dental problems, like the removal of impacted teeth and reconstructive facial surgery. These surgeons are also responsible for diagnosing and treating specific injuries, diseases, and defects, which involve both the functional and aesthetic aspects of the soft and hard tissues of the oral and maxillofacial region.

There you have it. With this info, next time you’re facing any kind of dental or oral problem, you don’t have to worry. Now you know who to call, what to expect and you can rest assured knowing that there’s a dental professional out there who can take care of your specific needs. Visit our blog and go through other articles to learn more about oral hygiene. IU or more each day of Vitamin D3.