Dental Specialists Weymouth MA
Like many medical professions, dentistry has many sub-specialties. Each specialty involves a somewhat different portion of the teeth, mouth and gums. The type of dentist that you need for a given medical condition depends upon the specifics of that condition. Many times, your dentist will refer you to a specialist if you require certain types of dental care.
What Is an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon?
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons specialize in treating problems involving the soft and hard tissues of the face, jaws and mouth. You may receive a referral to this type of specialist if you require a complex tooth extraction.
Other procedures commonly performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons include:
- Corrective jaw surgery
- Cleft lip/palate surgery
- Placement of dental implants
- Treatment for some forms of oral cancer
What Is a Periodontist?
Periodontists are specialists focusing upon the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Periodontist commonly treat patients for gum disease.
Why Is Your Dentist Referring You to a Periodontist?
The most common reason why dentists refer their patients to periodontists is for the treatment of severe periodontal disease, popularly known as gum disease.
What Is an Endodontist?
Endodontists are root canal specialists. Although most dentists can perform root canal therapy, endodontists perform many more of these common treatments.
What Is a Prosthodontist?
Prosthodontists specialize in restoring and replacing lost or damaged teeth. They are sometimes known as the “architects of the smile,” and are highly trained in helping patients achieve a more beautiful and functional smile. They also deal with the lips, gums and facial features.
Common procedures performed by prosthodontists include:
- Dental implants
- Porcelain veneers
- Dental crowns
- Fixed bridges
- Dentures
What Is a Pediatric Dentist?
Pediatric dentists specialize in providing dental care for young children, from infancy through the teenage years.
If children do not receive adequate dental care, they may face tooth decay and dental conditions leading to a lifetime of pain and complications.
Pediatric dentists provide services like:
- Infant oral health exams
- Preventive dental care, like fluoride treatments and dental cleaning
- Repair of tooth decay
- Dental care for injuries like displaced, fractured, or knocked-out teeth
What Is an Orthodontist?
Orthodontists are dental specialists involved with preventing, diagnosing, and treating facial irregularities. They often provide treatments like braces and Invisalign for crooked or misaligned teeth, as well as correcting bad bites and ensuring that the jaws are aligned correctly.
The goal of orthodontic treatment is to enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of the teeth and jaws.
For Additional Information
If you have a dental condition and are unsure what type of dental specialist can provide you with a diagnosis and treatment, please contact us to request more information about the treatments and procedures offered by dental specialists.