7 Types of Dentists

Dentists offer more than the standard checkup and cleaning; the profession involves numerous specialties to meet individual patient needs. Their responsibilities may include straightening teeth, treating gum disease, and working with children's dental needs. Having an understanding of the duties and educational requirements of each type of dentistry will help you in selecting an appropriate career path. This article gives an overview of seven types of dentists.

1. Pediatric Dentist

A pediatric dentist specializes in the examination, treatment, and education of young patients. Their responsibilities include examining X-rays, making impressions of teeth, filling cavities, prescribing treatments, and educating children and families about oral hygiene. Similar to general dentists, pediatric dentists must complete a doctoral program in dentistry and pass the state board and licensing examinations. They also undergo specialized training in a pediatric dentistry residency program.

2. Prosthodontist

Prosthodontists look after patients' teeth and mouth appearance, as well as jaw and mouth function. They generally take impressions of patients' teeth, design prosthetics such as bridges with artificial teeth, insert prosthetics, and refine them over several appointments to ensure the treatment is effective and the patients are comfortable. These dentists earn a bachelor's degree, pursue a doctoral program in dentistry, and undergo specialized courses and practice to gain in-depth knowledge of the head, mouth, neck, and spine in order to treat their patients properly.

3. General Dentist

A general dentist checks patients' teeth for cavities, misalignment, and other issues. They can analyze dental X-rays and medical histories to develop a custom treatment plan. If a patient's situation is too complex to treat independently, the dentist will refer them to a specialist. Dentists complete a bachelor's degree before attending dental school. A degree in biology, chemistry, or another science field can prepare them for advanced medical training. They then receive a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM) degree and must pass a licensing exam to practice in their state.

4. Periodontist

A periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases in patients' gum tissue. Periodontists treat patients using scaling, gingival grafts, root planing, and debridement. Some also specialize in placing dental implants. This dentist must complete a bachelor's degree, dental school, and an additional three years of specialized training in gum disease.

5. Endodontist

An endodontist specializes in conditions and diseases of the tooth, including decay. They administer treatments such as root canals or surgeries for fixing traumatic dental injuries, infections, and decay. This specialized dentist must obtain a bachelor's degree, complete four years of dental school, and undergo two or three years of postgraduate training in endodontics. They may also need to pass a state licensing exam.

6. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

Oral surgeons perform various treatments, including extracting wisdom teeth and preparing patients' mouths for extensive or complex implants. They typically review referral documents from a dentist that include the patient's medical and dental history, X-rays, and molds, and then consult with the patient to determine the best treatment plan. These dentists complete an undergraduate degree, dental school, and a two- or three-year residency in surgical procedures.

7. Orthodontist

Orthodontists diagnose and treat crooked teeth, jaw issues, or other major alignment problems that affect patients' comfort or oral hygiene. They review the patient's dental and medical history, examine X-rays, and fit patients with treatment devices such as braces, headgear, and retainers. They also follow up to adjust the equipment as needed and remove it once treatment is complete. Orthodontists earn a bachelor's degree, complete a DDS or DDM program, and finish a postgraduate residency in orthodontics.

Gaining knowledge of the required qualifications, roles, and responsibilities of different types of dentists helps you to make an informed decision regarding your career in the field of oral healthcare sector.