The dental specialist spends two or three years in additional training after completing dental school. They get certified to become a specialist after a rigorous process.
The following types of dentists are considered dental specialists:
Endodontists -- Perform root canal therapy or any dental treatment involving the center (pulp chamber) of the tooth.
Oral Surgeon -- Recognized as a specialist for a tooth extraction and oral surgery.
Orthodontist -- The dentist who is responsible for dental braces, and deals primarily with a malocclusion (crooked teeth).
Pedodontist -- Working with the teeth of your toddler definitely requires special skills; the pedodontist is often called a pediatric dentist.
Periodontist -- Provides gum disease treatment for the gums and soft tissue in the mouth; this dentist is usually the specialist called in for a larger cases of dental implants.
Prosthodontist -- This specialist's duties include restorative work, such as dentures, a dental crown or a dental bridge.
Today, more and more dentists are becoming specialized in one area of study, like cosmetic dentistry. The ADA strongly encourages like-minded dentists to come together and study and learn from one another in order to further the discipline. Although cosmetic dentistry is not a specialty for now, it is possible that it could develop into one.
Only your dentist can refer you to a specialist; talk with him or her if you feel you need the care of a dental specialist. If you don't have a dentist, we can help you find one. Call an operator anytime at 1-866-970-9853.
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