Nearly all dentists in your area may be general dentists, meaning they work specifically in diseases of the teeth and gums. Dentists can specialize in a particular area of dentistry, much like doctors do. Here are some specific dental specialties you may want to know about.
How Can a Dentist Specialize?
Just like doctors can choose a specialty during the final year of their medical school training, dentists can also choose to continue training in a specific area of dentistry. Here are some of the most common dental specialties.
Pediatric Dentistry
Pediatricians are doctors who want to work with children from birth through college age. Pediatric dentists undergo formal training to work with dental problems in children. Many general dentists are also pediatric dentists, especially if their practice includes families with adults and children.
Orthodontists
Orthodontists are a household word if you have children or grandchildren. Orthodontists specialize in correcting tooth and bite issues as children move into adolescence. Orthodontists can also correct tooth or bite issues in adults as well.
Endodontists
If you are having issues with a specific tooth, such as an infected tooth, your general dentist may refer you to an endodontist. Endodontists specialize in teeth that are diseased, and they are particularly skilled at saving infected teeth.
Periodontists
People who have Stage Two or Three gum disease are often referred to periodontists. Periodontists are experts in treating gum disease. People with gum disease need to get their gums cleaned more frequently with special techniques. Periodontists may also use lasers to treat advanced gum disease.
Oral Surgeons
Many adults need to see an oral surgeon if they have had trauma to their mouths, such as from an accident or an injury. Oral surgeons can also correct birth defects such as cleft lip or cleft palate. If you had your wisdom teeth out as a teenager, you probably went to an oral surgeon to have that procedure.
No matter what kind of oral care you need, there is a dental specialist who will be ready to help you. Contact our dental office today to learn more about how we can help you keep your smile.
Thurston Oaks Dental, 4305 NE Thurston Way, Suite A, Vancouver, WA 98662 | (360) 514-9212 | vancouverdds.com | 10/9/2024 | Related Phrases: dentist Vancouver WA |
Nearly all dentists in your area may be general dentists, meaning they work specifically in diseases of the teeth and gums. Dentists can specialize in a particular area of dentistry, much like doctors do. Here are some specific dental specialties you may want to know about.