What Type of Dentist do You Need to See?
Most of us see our family dentist which is typically described as a general dentist. A general dentist has received a 4 year doctorate degree in dentistry. When a problem occurs that the general dentist cannot handle you will be referred to a dental specialist. Dental specialists have additional training in a specific area and generally only offer services specific to their area of specialty.
To give you a better understanding of the types of dentist we will review what they do and the types of patients they treat.
General dentists are trained to provide most of the routine procedures such as check-ups, teeth cleaning, fillings, simple extractions, crowns, root canal, sealants and screening for oral disease and other procedures. If your general dentist feels that you have a problem requiring a specialist they will refer you to one of the following types of dentists. Specialists have completed two to six additional years of schooling on top of their DDS or DMD degrees.
General dentists are less expensive that specialists.
Orthodontists treat teeth and facial abnormalities to realign crooked teeth. They design, apply corrective appliances like braces and retainers to achieve proper bite (occlusion) and facial balance.
Endodontists deal with the inner portion of the tooth. They perform root canals which is the removal of the infected tissue and refilling of the nerve canal inside the tooth.
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons treat injuries and deformities of the mouth, teeth , gums and jaws. They remove wisdom teeth, treat facial injuries and jaw disorders and also do reconstructive surgery and do dental implants.
Periodontists treat diseases of the gum and bone that surround and support the teeth. They treat gingivitis and periodontitis which is the more destructive gum disease.
Prosthodontists design, construct and fit replacement teeth such as implants, bridgework, and dentures
(false teeth) Prosthodontists can fit patients with such prosthetic devices as single or multiple tooth replacement implants, crowns and bridges, partial dentures and complete dentures.
Pedodontics or pediatric dentists focus on the treatment of children. The pediatric dentist is specially trained to work infants, children and adolescents and help them feel more comfortable at the dentist.
Debbi Carroll, RN
Ameriplan clients can save up to 80% on all procedures a general dentist is licensed to do and up to 25% with specialists. Visit www.dentalplanswork.com to see how you can save.
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