The Dental Specializations You Need to Know

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

Dental specialists are oral healthcare providers that receive specialized training after dental school. Dental specialization benefits the patients suffering from specific issues beyond general dentistry. Here are some of the specializations/sub-specializations you need to learn.

Specialties

Orthodontic Dentistry

Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics specialize in diagnosing, preventing, and correcting malocclusion. It also handles neuromuscular and skeletal irregularities of the orofacial structures. An orthodontist conducts teeth straightening by moving them through the bone structure.

An orthodontist treats misaligned teeth utilizing dental braces made from metal or ceramics, wires, and a bonding agent that affixes them to your teeth. Braces and corrective appliances slowly align teeth.

Prosthodontics Dentistry

Prosthodontics is the specialized branch of dental care that manages the diagnosis, treatment, and oral function related to missing or deficient teeth. Additionally, it deals with oral maxillofacial tissues utilizing biocompatible alternatives. A prosthodontist repairs natural teeth and replaces missing teeth on a larger scale than a general dentist. They use dentures or dental crowns as permanent substitutes for missing teeth.

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

Pediatric Dentistry

A pediatric dentist concentrates on an age-defined discipline that provides primary and comprehensive preventive and therapeutic oral care for infants and children dental services. A pedodontist deals with oral health until the teenage years, including for those with special needs. This specialist can identify and deal with the onset of degeneration, crookedness, crowding, falling teeth, and other dental problems.

Subspecialties

General Dentistry

A general dentist works as the primary dental care provider, similar to a family doctor in dental medicine; he has many responsibilities, including diagnosis, treatment, care, and management of your overall dental health. Non-metal dental fillings, root canal surgical procedures, bridges, crowns, veneers, and preventative education are some of the general dentist’s services.

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

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry procedures include straightening, reshaping, and repairing teeth. This specialization focuses on enhancing a person’s smile and may consist of teeth whitening Victoria, veneers, bonding, white fillings, and invisible dental braces.

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

Geriatric Dentistry

Geriatric dentistry manages the dental health of senior citizens, who typically take prescribed medications for significant medical issues. Older individuals are prone to dental decay and gingival (gum) disorders; they often have different symptoms experienced by younger people.