11 Different Types of Dentists and Types of Dental Specialists

Oral health is essential for overall well-being, and regular dentist visits are critical to maintaining good dental hygiene. A general dentist is the primary dental care provider who offers comprehensive dental services such as routine checkups and cleanings, dental x-rays, and follow-up appointments. However, there are also various types of dental specialists available to provide specialized treatment for specific oral health issues. Here are some different types of dentists and dental specialists:

Different types of dentists

General Dentist
Orthodontist
Endodontist
Periodontist
Prosthodontist
Pediatric Dentist
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
Oral Pathologist
Dental Public Health Specialist
Oral Radiologist
Oral Medicine Specialist

General Dentist

A general dentist is the most common type of dentist who specializes in providing oral health care services. They diagnose, treat and manage overall oral health care needs, including gum care, root canals, fillings, crowns, veneers, bridges, and preventive education. General dentists usually complete a four-year doctoral program or dental degree in dental school and receive a DDS or DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine) degree, which is a mandatory requirement to become a dentist in general dentistry and practice as a general dentist.

Family Dentistry

It is the practice of dental health within the context of the patient’s entire family, including not just the patient but also parents, siblings, grandparents, etc. Family Dentistry aims to improve overall health and prevent further issues in the future.

Common procedures and treatments include:

Cavity fillings
Sealants
Teeth cleanings
Gum disease treatment

Orthodontist

An orthodontist specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and correction of misaligned teeth and jaws. They use braces, retainers, and other appliances to straighten teeth and correct bite issues. Orthodontists must complete an additional two to three years of specialized training after dental school.

Oral Surgeon

An oral surgeon specializes in dental surgery, such as tooth extractions, implant placement, jaw realignment, and emergency care for facial trauma and best known for wisdom tooth extraction. Oral surgeons require an additional four to six years of surgical residency training after dental school.

Endodontist

An endodontist specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases or injuries that affect the dental pulp, roots, and surrounding tissues of teeth. They perform root canal therapy, surgery to remove diseased tissue, and treat cracked teeth. Endodontists receive an additional two to three years of specialized training after dental school.

Periodontist

A periodontist specializes in diagnosing and treating gum disease, inflammation, and other conditions that affect the supporting structures of teeth, including gums and bones. They offer treatments such as scaling and root planing, gum grafts, and dental implants to restore oral health. Periodontists receive an additional two to three years of specialized training after dental school.

Prosthodontist

A prosthodontist specializes in restoring or replacing damaged, broken, or missing teeth with prosthetic devices like dentures, bridges, or implants. They also focus on aesthetic improvements to the smile, such as veneers or crowns. Prosthodontists require an additional two to three years of specialized training after dental school.

Pediatric Dentist

A pediatric dentist specializes in the oral health of infants, children, and adolescents. They provide preventive care, restorative services, and education to help maintain healthy teeth and gums. Pediatric dentists complete two additional years of specialized training after dental school.

Oral Pathologist

An oral pathologist specializes in diagnosing and managing diseases that affect the oral and maxillofacial regions. They use laboratory tests, imaging studies, and clinical examinations to identify and treat infectious, inflammatory, and neoplastic conditions. Oral pathologists require additional training in pathology after completing dental school.

Dental Public Health Specialist

A dental public health specialist focuses on the prevention and control of oral diseases and promotion of oral health at the population level. They work in government agencies, community organizations, and academic institutions to develop policies and programs for improving oral health outcomes. Dental public health specialists must complete a residency program in dental public health after dental school.

Oral Radiologist

An oral radiologist specializes in interpreting diagnostic images of the head, neck, and oral cavity. They use advanced imaging technologies such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the teeth, jaws, and surrounding tissues. Oral radiologists require additional training in radiology after completing dental school.

Oral Medicine Specialist

An oral medicine specialist focuses on diagnosing and managing medical conditions that affect the oral and maxillofacial regions. They provide care for patients with diseases such as oral cancer, autoimmune disorders, and chronic pain syndromes. Oral medicine specialists require additional training in internal medicine after completing dental school.

Cosmetic Dentist

A cosmetic dentist offers elective procedures that focus on improving the appearance of teeth and gums. They provide services such as tooth whitening, veneers, and composite bonding to enhance the smile’s aesthetics. Cosmetic dentists receive advanced training in aesthetic techniques after completing dental school.

Overall, there are many different types of dentists and dental specialists available to provide comprehensive oral health care. Depending on your specific dental needs, you may require specialized treatment from a trained professional. Regular visits to your general dentist can help prevent dental problems and manage existing conditions, while specialized care from dental specialists can restore oral health and improve the appearance of your smile.

Why do I need to see a dental specialist?

You may need to see a dental specialist if you have a specific oral health issue that requires specialized care. General dentists can provide routine dental care, but dental specialists have additional training and expertise in treating specific dental problems.

Understanding the Different Types of Dental Specialties Dentistry is a broad field, and there are many different dental specialties that focus on specific areas of dental health. While general dentistry is the most common type of dentist, other dental professionals specialize in treating different dental conditions. Some specialties include periodontics, oral surgery, orthodontics, endodontics, and prosthodontics. These dental specialists work with other dentists to provide comprehensive dental care that helps patients manage a wide range of dental issues.
The Importance of Going to the Dentist Regularly Seeing your general dentist regularly is an important part of maintaining good dental health. The American Dental Association recommends that you see your dentist at least twice a year for routine dental exams and cleanings. During these visits, your dentist can help you manage dental treatments, such as fillings and dental implant surgery, while also providing dental health education to help you better understand the different hard and soft tissues in your mouth.
Dentists you can see beyond: Understanding Dental Specialties While general dentistry is the most common type of dentist, there are situations where you may need to see a dental specialist. For example, if you have misaligned jaws or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems, an orthodontist or oral surgeon may be able to provide the specific treatment you need. Periodontists are trained to treat gum disease, while throat specialists focus on the treatment of conditions affecting the throat and mouth. Additionally, some general dentists provide cosmetic dentistry services, such as veneers or teeth whitening, but there are specialized cosmetic dentists who solely focus on this area and can provide more advanced options. Regardless, your general dentist can always refer you to a specialist if necessary.

You can also search for a local dentist near me here.

How do I find a dental specialist?

You can ask your general dentist for a referral to a dental specialist or search online for dental specialists in your area. Make sure to choose a specialist who is board-certified and has the proper qualifications and training.

Do dental specialists charge more than general dentists?

Dental specialist fees may be higher than general dentist fees, depending on the treatment required. However, specialized care can help prevent more extensive and costly treatments in the future, so it’s important to consider the long-term benefits of seeing a dental specialist.

What is the Difference between Cosmetic Dentistry and General Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry differ in their focus and goals. While general dentistry aims to provide overall oral health care, cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of teeth and gums. General dentists provide preventive care, routine checkups, cleanings, and treatments for dental problems such as cavities and gum disease. Cosmetic dentists offer elective procedures such as tooth whitening, veneers, and composite bonding to enhance the aesthetics of a patient’s smile.

Prosthodontists: What Type of Dental Specialist Are They?

A prosthodontist is a type of dental specialist who specializes in restoring or replacing damaged, broken, or missing teeth with prosthetic devices like dentures, bridges, or implants. They also focus on aesthetic improvements to the smile, such as veneers or crowns. Prosthodontists require an additional two to three years of specialized training after dental school.

Oral Pathologist: What Is This Specialist Type of Dentistry?

An oral pathologist is a type of dental specialist who diagnoses and treats diseases that affect the mouth and surrounding tissues. They use laboratory tests and microscopic analysis to identify oral diseases such as oral cancer, infections, and autoimmune conditions. Oral pathologists work closely with other dental specialists to provide comprehensive oral health care.

Do General Dentists and Specialists Provide Many Different Types of Care?

Yes, both general dentists and dental specialists provide many different types of oral health care. General dentists offer preventive services such as routine cleanings and checkups, fillings, crowns, and gum disease treatment. Dental specialists undergo additional training and focus on specific areas of dentistry, such as orthodontics, endodontics, periodontics, oral surgery, and pediatric dentistry.

In conclusion, it’s important to understand that decay can be prevented by seeking proper dental care. While general dentistry is the most common type of dentist specializes that provides routine dental care, there are other dental specialties including those who specialize in wisdom tooth extractions or treating complex dental issues. It’s essential to know there are dentists who specialize in treating these issues and that you can see beyond your general dentist to receive the care you need. Dentists treat a wide range of dental conditions, and seeing a type of dentist who specializes in specific areas can help you maintain optimal dental health.