Understanding dental specialties

Most dentists in the United States practice general dentistry. Typically, you consult a general dentist for regular checkups, cleanings and restorative care. Your dentist may have a doctor of dental surgery (D.D.S.) degree or a doctor of dental medicine (D.M.D.) degree. If a dental issue becomes too complex or needs specialized treatment, your dentist may refer you to a dental specialist.

Here's a brief explanation from the American Dental Association of some of the recognized dental specialties:

Endodontist: Treats diseases and injuries of the dental pulp (the connective tissue that fills the soft portion of the center of a tooth) and other dental tissues that affect a tooth's vitality. You may consult an endodontist for a root canal.

Oral or maxillofacial surgeon: Specializes in extraction procedures and the treatment of various diseases, injuries, and defects in the head, neck, face, jaws and associated structures.

Oral pathologist: Studies the causes, processes and effects of diseases of the mouth. Also provides diagnostic and consultative services.

Orthodontist: Establishes normal function and appearance for crooked or crowded teeth, missing teeth and other abnormalities.

Pediatric dentist: Provides preventive and therapeutic dental treatment for children, from birth through adolescence.

Periodontist: Treats diseases of the gums and bone supporting the teeth.

Prosthodontist: Replaces missing natural teeth with fixed or removable substitutes, such as dentures, bridges and implants.