Tracy When your friends and family go to the dentist, do you wonder what it would be like to visit one? It can be daunting to face the chair and feel the drill working on your teeth, but dentists can help.
Knowing the different types of dentists can make it easier to find the right one for you. Your choice might be harder, though, as there are so many different types to choose from.
Below, we take a look at 6 types of dentists, who their patients are likely to be, what their jobs involve, and the scope of work that they carry out.
Contents
1. Dental Anesthesiologist
There are many different types of dentists, but one of the most important is the dental anesthesiologist. These specialists are responsible for administering anesthesia to patients during dental procedures. They are able to provide all types of dental anesthesia, including general anesthesia, sedation, and local anesthesia.
Without them, many dental procedures would be incredibly painful and could even be dangerous. They are responsible for making sure that the patient is comfortable and safe during their dental procedure. And monitor the patient’s vital signs and make sure that they remain stable throughout the procedure.
They must complete a four-year residency program after dental school and complete an accredited residency in dental anesthesia and receive a certificate or license to practice dental anesthesia. During this program, they receive extensive training in how to safely administer anesthesia.
2. Endodontist
An endodontist is a dentist who specializes in the treatment of dental pulp, which is the tissue inside the tooth. It performs root canals, which are a common procedure. Root canals are necessary when the dental pulp becomes infected.
They use a variety of equipment and techniques to treat the diseased pulp or root canal system of the tooth. This includes the use of lasers, micro-endodontics, and other specialized instruments.
Endodontists receive two or more years of training beyond dental school. They are highly trained and skilled in what they do, and they often work closely with other dental specialists to provide the best care possible for their patients.
If you are experiencing pain in your tooth or have been told that you need a root canal, you should see an Endodontist. They will be able to provide you with the best possible care and help you get relief from your tooth pain.
3. General Dentist
General dentists are the most common type of dentist, and they provide basic preventative dental care. They can perform many different types of procedures, but they cannot perform every type of procedure.
A general dentist is a dentist who provides comprehensive dental care to patients of all ages. A general dentist is responsible for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of oral diseases. A general dentist is also responsible for the management of oral health care.
An individual who has completed dental school and has a DDS or DMD degree is a general dentist. A general dentist can provide all necessary dental treatments, including cleanings, fillings, crowns, bridges, and dentures.
They can also perform more complex procedures, such as root canals and extractions. General dentists are the primary care providers for patients of all ages.
4. Pedodontist
A pedodontist is a dentist that specializes in the oral health of children. They are also sometimes called a pediatric dentist. Usually have special training in child psychology, so they can make the child’s experience at the dentist’s office relaxing and comfortable.
To deal with the unique needs of children, such as their fear of going to the dentist, and also have experience working with kids who have special needs, such as those with autism or other developmental disorders.
They work closely with parents to ensure that children receive the best possible dental care. And often use behavior management techniques to make the dental experience more positive for young patients.
5. Periodontist
Is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease. They are also experts in the placement and maintenance of dental implants. Periodontists are often referred to as gum specialists.
They completed at least three years of additional training beyond dental school. This training allows them to better understand the complex structure of the teeth and gums and how periodontal disease affects them and which makes them uniquely qualified to provide the best possible care for their patients.
They may use a variety of different techniques and procedures to treat periodontal disease and prevent it from progressing. In some cases, they may use surgery to correct the problem. In other cases, they may use less invasive methods, such as scaling and root planning.
6. Prosthodontist
Is a type of dentist who specializes in the restoration and replacement of teeth. They use different materials to create artificial teeth that look and function like natural teeth. They typically work with patients who have lost teeth due to injury, disease, or aging.
Prosthodontists use a variety of materials and techniques to restore teeth, including composite fillings, porcelain veneers, dental crowns, dental implants, and dentures. In addition to restoring teeth, prosthodontists also focus on improving the appearance of teeth and smiles.
They must complete an additional three years of training after dental school in order to earn their specialty. If you are missing one or more teeth, or if you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth, you may want to consider seeing a prosthodontist.
Discovering Different Types Of Dentists
There are many different types of dentists out there. They each have their own unique way of looking at teeth and treating them. Some dentists may focus on cosmetic dentistry, while others may focus on more preventative care.
It is important to find a dentist that you feel comfortable with and that you feel is right for your needs. Once you find the right dentist, you will be on your way to discovering the best dental care possible.
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