Your Guide To The Different Types Of Dentists

When you suffer from tooth ailments, you need to visit a dental health professional. However, with so many different dentists to choose from, it could be a bit perplexing to know whom to see for your specific condition.

What exactly are the differences between all the various types of dentists? What are their roles, and who should you visit?

In this article, we discuss the various types of dentists and the roles they perform and also we will tell you the best Dentist in Clarkston MI.

Dentists are broadly divided into two types: General dentists and specialists.

General Dentistry

General dentists are the primary care providers and are often the first to visit for your oral care requirements. They provide diagnosis and treatment for common dental issues such as tooth pain, gum disease, cavities, root canals, crowns, and preventative care.

General dentists are divided into two types: Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) and Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD).

DDS and DMD both provide the same services. The difference in the title is due to the university they passed out from.

Dental Specialists

Sometimes for various reasons, the general dentists refer patients to specialists. Dental specialists complete extra four years of training in a specialized branch of dentistry. 

Some common types of dental specialists are:

1 - Pediatric Dentists

Pediatric dentists treat children for their dental problems from infancy through the teen years.

They are qualified and trained to diagnose oral problems in children related to their teeth, gums, and entire mouth during their entire childhood years.

2 – Orthodontist

Orthodontists are trained to diagnose, prevent, and treat irregularities in teeth and the jaw. They suggest correctional procedures for existing conditions and identify problems that could develop in the future.

3 – Endodontist

Endodontists specialize in tooth pain, disease, and infection. They have the training to diagnose and treat tooth pain and perform a root canal to treat tooth pulp that has become damaged or infected.

Though dentists too perform root canals, endodontists have more expertise and experience performing them.

4 – Periodontist

Periodontists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease. It is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth, commonly called gum disease.

Periodontists complete extensive training in their area of specialization. They also deal in the placement of dental implants. 

To summarize, understanding the different types of dentists and the treatments they offer will help you seek out the right dentist for your condition. Usually, you visit your general dentist for your immediate concerns. They will examine and determine if your condition requires you to seek specialist treatment and refer you to a specialist accordingly.

Aden Stevenson is the author of this article. For more details about Veneers in Clarkston MI. please visit our website: stannardstudttironidentistry.com