Who Are the Dental Specialists, and What They Do

The National Commission on Recognition of Dental Specialty and Certifying Boards (NCRDSCB) currently recognizes twelve dental specialties and other subspecialties in dental medicine. This organization intends to protect the general public and nurture the art and science of dentistry.

Dental specialists are oral health care providers that acquire specialized training after dental school. Dental specialization benefits the patients dealing with particular concerns beyond general dentistry. Here are some of the specializations/sub-specializations you need to learn.

Specialties

Orthodontic Dentistry

Coquitlam orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics specialize in diagnosing, preventing, and correcting malocclusion. It likewise deals with neuromuscular and skeletal problems of the orofacial structures. An orthodontist takes care of teeth aligning by moving them through the bone structure.

An orthodontist Airdrie deals with misaligned teeth using braces made from metal or ceramics, wires, and a bonding agent that attaches them to your teeth. Dental braces and corrective appliances gradually align teeth.

Prosthodontics Dentistry

Prosthodontics is the specialized branch of dental care that handles the diagnosis, treatment, and oral function associated with missing or deficient teeth. In addition, it treats oral maxillofacial tissues using biocompatible alternatives. A prosthodontist fixes natural teeth and replaces missing teeth on a larger spectrum than a general dentist. They utilize dentures or dental crowns as long-term substitutes for missing teeth.

Prosthodontists offer treatment for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. A TMJ therapy is a conservative approach and does not produce permanent damage to the teeth.

Pediatric Dentistry

A pediatric dentist focuses on an age-defined discipline that provides primary and extensive preventative and therapeutic care for infants and children’s dental services in London. A pedodontist cares for dental health until adolescence, including those with special needs. This professional can identify and address the onset of degeneration, crookedness, crowding, falling teeth, and other oral concerns.

Subspecialties

General Dentistry

A general dentist functions as the primary dental care provider, just like a family physician in dental medicine; he has several responsibilities, including the diagnosis, treatment, care, and management of your overall dental wellness. Non-metal fillings, root canal surgical procedures, bridges, crowns, veneers, and preventative education are several general dentist services.

Wisdom teeth removal is a procedure your dentist may suggest when it’s impacted, at the wrong angle, or your mouth isn’t big enough to accommodate an extra set of molars. Your dentist might apply sedation dentistry which employs medication to help you relax during procedures.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry procedures consist of correcting, reshaping, and repairing teeth. This expertise concentrates on improving a person’s smile and might include teeth whitening, veneers, bonding, white dental fillings, and invisible dental braces.

Teeth whitening is different from dental cleaning; a bleaching agent is typically used to achieve lighter teeth colors in a whitening procedure.

Geriatric Dentistry

Geriatric dentistry handles the dental health of elderly persons, who typically take prescribed medications for significant medical concerns. Older individuals are prone to dental decay and gingival (gum) disorders; they commonly have different symptoms experienced by younger individuals.

Top Pieces of Advice from Your Dental Professionals

  • Brush regularly and appropriately
  • Floss daily
  • Replace toothbrush every three months
  • Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash
  • Take calcium supplements
  • Quit smoking
  • Limit coffee intake
  • Limit or reduce carbonated beverages
  • Have a well-balanced diet
  • Book a dental consultation every six months