Dentists
Dentists are grouped into two categories: general dentists and specialists. Both general and specialty dentists have received a four-year doctorate degree in dentistry, which is referred to either as a D.D.S. (doctor of dental surgery) or D.M.D. (doctor of dental medicine). There is no difference between the two degrees; dentists who have a DMD or DDS have the same education, and have met the same requirements. Specialists, though, have additional, specific training in a particular area of dentistry, and they usually limit their practice to that specialty.
General dentists, also known as family dentists, are trained to provide most of the dental procedures patients need on a routine basis. A general dentist’s services usually include those listed below, although a general dentist will sometimes refer you to a specialist for some of these procedures:
- Routine checkups including teeth cleaning, x-rays, and screening for gum disease and oral cancer.
- Fillings
- Gum disease treatment
- Extractions
- Crowns and bridges
- Cosmetic dentistry
- Root canal therapy
- Sealants
- Pediatric dentistry
- Home care instructions
- Dentures and partial dentures
- Mouthguards
If your general dentist determines you have a problem requiring special skills, knowledge, or equipment, he or she will refer you to a specialist. Before you see a specialist, your general dentist should explain to you why the referral is recommended. He or she should share your dental records, x-rays, and any relevant dental and health information with the specialty dentist.
Specialty dentists typically complete two to six years of education in a specific area after receiving a DDS or DMD. Dental specialists include:
- Endodontists care for the inner portion of the teeth. They perform root canals (i.e., remove the pulp and nerves inside a tooth) and treat diseases of the pulp and nerves inside the tooth.
- Oral and maxillofacial surgeons treat injuries and defects of the mouth and jaw; they also often perform complex tooth extractions.
- Orthodontists design and apply corrective and supportive appliances (braces) to realign crooked teeth. They also treat neuromuscular and skeletal abnormalities of facial structures related to the mouth.
- Pediatric dentists care for infants, children, adolescents, and patients having psychological, physical, or emotional needs. These practitioners are skilled at handling first visits to the dentist.
- Periodontists treat diseases of the soft tissues (gums) and bone that surround and support the teeth.
- Prosthodontists design, construct and fit replacement teeth, such as implants, bridgework and dentures. They treat patients with impaired oral function associated with missing or deficient teeth and/or tissues.
Dental Hygienists
Dental hygienists teach patients how to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. They also clean teeth using special dental instruments. They may take x-rays, apply fluoride, and complete routine tasks the dentist has started (e.g., polishing fillings). Dental hygienists have completed at least two years of schooling and have passed a state board licensing examination.
After the hygienist performs a routine cleaning, the dentist will check your teeth for problems. If you’re lucky, you’ll see more of your dental hygienist and less of your dentist! Your relationship with the hygienist is just as important as your relationship with the dentist. Keep this in mind when choosing a dental practice.
