In dentistry, there are many specialties, each designed to assist patients with a specific type of care. With thousands of dentists (and related professionals) practicing across the country, and each specializing in something different, how do you determine which one is a good fit for you and your family?
You may see some dentists’ names ending with DDS (doctor of dental surgery) or DMD (doctor of dental medicine). Already confused? There’s really no need to be. Fortunately, the difference here lies in the semantics. Both a DDS and a DMD have studied the same thing and have the same degree.
General dentists often come with monikers like “cosmetic dentist” or “family dentist.” Here’s a few other helpful translations:
- Pediatric dentist: Typically, this is a dentist for kids from the youngest toddlers to 18-year-olds.
- Endodontist: Endodontists are root canal specialists (the ones you hope you don’t have to see)
- Oral and maxillofacial surgeon: They perform tooth extraction or other oral surgery
- Prosthodontist: These are restorative specialists who perform dental work and similar
- Periodontist: Your periodontist is a specialist in gum disease treatment
- Orthodontist: As most people know, orthodontists deal with dental braces and serve as bite specialists
When you are suffering with a dental problem, say a severe toothache, intense jaw pain or bleeding gums, don’t assume you need a specialist. Most specialists strongly prefer you to see a general dentist first for a comprehensive exam before being referred.
Also keep in mind that general dentists often perform some of the same treatments and procedures as dental specialists. For your next dental issue, try paying a visit to a general practitioner before visiting a specialist.
