Different Types of Dentistry |
Posted: January 3, 2018 |
When most of use think of dentistry, we don't realize how many kinds there are, but there are many types of different dental specializations. Those who want to learn more about dentistry should read further to gain a better understanding about the many types of dentistry. General DentistryAn individual will visit a general dentist to have exams, dental cleanings, and other dental procedures such as fillings. An estimated 65% of all diagnostic and preventive dental procedures are administered by a general dentist. A general dentist informs patients about proper oral hygiene and health, which helps patients prevent the progression of oral diseases such as periodontal disease. General dentist are the primary source of dental care to individuals of all ages. For most individuals, a routine exam will need to be done at least every six months. A dental examination will include an exam of a patient's mouth, which includes gums, teeth, and jawbone. When tooth decay is present, a patient may need a filling if the decay is minor. However, if there is chronic tooth decay, a patient may need a root canal. If a patient has periodontal disease, a procedure called scaling may be done to eliminate the bacteria from the gums. General dentists may also perform emergency dental procedures. A Calgary dental implant dentist can treat oral problems that need immediate attention such as an abscess tooth or tooth loss due to an accident. EndodonticsBeneath the surface of the teeth are small passages known as canals. These canals house living tissue, which includes nerves and blood vessels, which are extremely sensitive. An endodontist specializes in the treatment of the soft tissue inside the tooth known as the pulp. When tooth decay reaches the the root through the canals, it can cause extreme pain. If an individual experiences pain and inflammation caused by the tooth's pulp, pain will be severe. To treat the problem, an individual may need root canal therapy, which administered by an endodontist. Oral and Maxillofacial SurgeryTo be an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, an individual must first complete four years of dental school and then spend four years as a resident in a hospital residency program for surgeons. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are trained in emergency medicine techniques, general surgery, and anesthesia. Aside from anesthesiologists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons are the only other medical professionals who have the authority to administer certain levels of anesthesia. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons treat hard and soft tissue problems of the jaws, mouth, and face. Although some oral and maxillofacial surgeons work at a hospital, most of them work in an office-based setting such as a general dentist's office. When there is a tooth extraction that may be too difficult for a general dentist to perform, he or she may refer the patient to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. In addition, if a general dentist notices one of his or her patients has a jaw alignment problem, the patient may also be referred to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. OrthodonticsAn orthodontist is an expert in bite problems and malocclusions, which can include when teeth are too close together or misaligned. When an individual has a malocclusion, his or her upper and lower jaw do not properly fit together. An orthodontist will use a wide range of tools to help his or her patients achieve a more functional bite and straighter teeth. Some of these tools may include removable appliances, braces, or aligners. Because an orthodontist specializes in jaw development and growth, he or she may also employ headgear and palatal expanders as part of a treatment plan that will help a child's jaw develop and grow properly, which will prevent further treatment when the child is older. ProsthodonticsA prosthodontist is a dental professional who specializes in restoring and replacing lost and damaged teeth. When a prosthodontist is finished with dental school, he or she will undergo additional training that combines clinical experience and ongoing education. A prosthodontist is trained to work with dentures, veneers, and other dental prosthetics. Pediatric DentistryA pediatric dentist is trained and qualified to treat the oral health of children. Pediatric dentistry is very important as dental cavities or caries are five times more common and seven times more common than hay fever in children. PeriodonticsA periodontist will obtain a four year degree in dentistry and then attend an additional four years of specialized training in gum disease. Although general dentists can treat early stages of periodontal disease, chronic periodontal disease and other problems near the gums will should be treated by a periodontist. In addition, a periodontist will also administer dental implants and examine patients for any bone loss near the teeth. A periodontist will treat any problems that are related to tooth roots, gums, and jawbone.
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