General Dentists, the Types of Specialties and What’s Required

There are many different types of dentists. All of them having different expertise and unique specialized training. The average dentists has the ability to remove tooth decay, repair fractured teeth, and fill cavities, but once they began to educate themselves further, into a particular area, that’s when they are considered to have a specialty in the field. 

One specialty is an Endodontist. In this field dentists work with the inner part of the tooth, the part of the tooth that is protected by the the hard enamel and the dentin. The dentin is located below the gumline and is known as the pulp. The pulp is made up of sensitive living tissue and is soft. If the pulp becomes damaged or rotten it will need to be removed or treated. The most common duty performed by Endodontists are root canals, which is the treatment of damaged pulp. The proper title for these types of dentists are called Certified Specialists in Endodontists. 

A Periodontist devotes his/her studying to the gums. Their education is concentrated on identifying and treating gum disease. Along with preventing and diagnosing other types of gum issues. For older persons seeking to dental implants, gums are very important. If the individual is suffering from gum disease, a periodontists may suggest against it. Performing cosmetic skin grafting on gums and installing dental implants are part of the everyday duties of a periodontist. Formerly dentists who succeed in this field are called Certified Specialist in Periodontists. 

If you’re curious about what types of dentists deal primarily with false teeth, they are Prosthodontists. They are titled Certified Specialist in Prosthodontists. Prosthodontists provide oral prostheses that will replace damaged, missing or decayed teeth. Oral Prosthodontists includes dentures, veneers, bridges etc. Dentists who specialize in this profession work side by side with dental labs that develop false teeth and oral appliances. The purpose of this is to make sure the prostheses fit the patient’s mouth perfectly. Making sure that the customer is satisfied when it comes to the quality and fit of their new teeth is crucial. 

So as you see, there are many other types of specialties in the world of dentistry. Even an average dentist has to attend college for 4 years. Having a Bachelor’s degree prior to beginning your studies as a dentist is necessary. After you complete your Bachelor’s degree, you will then proceed to take the Dental Admissions Test (DAT), after which you must earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery or a Doctor of Dental Medicine. The prospective dentist must be given a licensure from their state board of dentistry in order to have the ability to practice in this profession. This process ensures that a dentist west lakes, is just as up to date as a dentist in south lakes. 

So if you ever assumed that a general dentists did not have to undergo as much training as a dentist with a specialty, you’re mistaken. They are all devoted and submerged in years of education and devotion. When searching for a dentist, you want to make sure his/her license is up to date. You also may want to inquire about his general reputation in the community.