A Few Types Of Dental Specialties And The Dental Care They Provide

Posted on: 24 February 2023

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If your teeth are healthy and in good shape, you may not need more than regular dental check-ups and cleanings. You'll probably get all of your dental care from your family or general dentist. However, there are different dental specialties you or someone in your family could need. When that's the case, your dentist can refer you to the right dentist. Here's a look at dental specialists and the type of dental care they provide.

Pediatric Dentist

If you have kids, you may want them to go to a pediatric dentist just because the practice is geared toward kids. Everything from the waiting room furniture to the staff employed is chosen to help kids enjoy going to the dentist so they learn about the importance of regular dental care, and won't develop a fear of dentists that follows them through life. A pediatric dentist can check, treat, and clean your child's teeth as they grow.

Orthodontist

An orthodontist is concerned with the alignment of teeth. If you or your child needs braces, you'll go to an orthodontist to get them. You'll have regular visits to your orthodontist to have your braces adjusted and your progress checked, but you'll still need to see your general dentist for cleanings and treatments for cavities if needed.

Cosmetic Dentist

A cosmetic dentist works on your teeth to improve their appearance. They may brighten your smile, do gum surgery, apply veneers, or do other treatments that make your teeth more attractive. If you're unhappy with the way your teeth look and want to improve their appearance, a cosmetic dentist can help. They may also do basic dental care such as cleaning and filling cavities if needed as part of your treatment.

Dental Surgeon

Your kids might need to see a dental surgeon at some point to have their wisdom teeth removed. Removing wisdom teeth is a common type of dental surgery since wisdom teeth are often impacted and need to come out.

Your child's dentist can monitor your child's wisdom teeth as they grow. By taking X-rays, they can tell if the teeth are aligned properly and will erupt as they should. If problems are apparent, the dentist might recommend seeing a surgeon to remove the teeth so they don't interfere with the development of other permanent teeth or tooth alignment.

Your family could potentially need many types of dental care over the years due to misaligned teeth, decay, gum disease, or injuries. By having a family dentist who gives you general dental care and knows your history, you'll always have someone to refer you to the right type of dentist when you or your children need special care. 

For more info about dental care, contact a local dentist.