ABOUT DENTIST
A dentist, also known as a dental surgeon, is a healthcare professional specializing in dentistry, such as the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and conditions of the oral cavity. The dentist’s supporting team aids in providing oral health services. The dental team includes dental assistants, hygienists, dental technicians, and sometimes dental therapists. What is a dentist called? There are seven types of dentists: General Dentist, Pedodontics, or Paediatric Dentist.
THE ROLE OF BEST DENTIST IN ROCKLAND COUNTY NY
Dentists are the frontline of good oral health. They work with communities to prevent and treat dental/oral disease, correct dental irregularities, and treat dental/facial injuries.
WHICH TYPE OF DENTIST SHOULD WE CHOOSE
DDS VS. DMD
Typically, when going to the dentist, you see a general dentist. General dentists can either be a DDS or a DMD. A DDS dentist has earned their Doctor of Dental Surgery degree; one with a DMD has earned their Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry or Doctor of Dental Medicine degree. To earn DDS or DMD credentials, a doctor must complete three or more years of undergraduate studies followed by four years of dental school.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DDS OR DMD
The truth is, they are the same – the difference in the title is due to the university they attended and how that university recognizes the profession. Both must complete the same course studies, a written exam, and a licensing exam to practice dentistry.
Both DDS and DMD dentists are considered general dentists and are primary providers who treat overall dental care needs. This includes diagnosing and treating oral health issues such as gum disease, cavities, root canals, crowns, bridges, and preventative care.
DENTAL SPECIALISTS
Paediatric Dentist or Pedodontics – Dentists who work exclusively with children.
•Orthodontist – A patient is referred to an orthodontist when a general dentist notices misalignment with the jaw and teeth of both children and adults. An orthodontist will treat the patient with solutions like braces, Invisalign, and retainers if extra teeth, missing teeth, or teeth are crowded. Children can be referred to an orthodontist at an early age.
•Oral Surgeon – an oral surgeon specializing in the surgical treatment of disease, injuries, and aesthetic or functional areas of the mouth. They remove wisdom teeth, handle dental implants, and suspicious biopsy spots in the mouth. Oral Surgeons also have additional training in anesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort when surgery is required.
•Endodontist – Specialists who have received training to help address tooth pain while saving the natural teeth by performing root canal treatment – a procedure that treats the infected tissues within a tooth. The word “endodontic” comes from the Greek word “endo,” meaning “inside” and “odont” meaning tooth.
•Periodontist – a periodontist is a dental specialist that focuses on caring for your gums and the supporting tissues and structure around your teeth. In most cases, a referral to a periodontist is made to help patients treat advanced periodontal (gum) disease. They also are trained to place dental implants.
•Prosthodontist – this dental specialist focuses on helping patients restore and replace lost or damaged teeth. Their goal is to look at all of the elements related to helping a patient achieve a functional, natural-looking smile. Some of the treatments they perform include dental implants, bridges & dentures.
