Types of Dentistry: A Comprehensive Guide

Dentistry is a broad field that encompasses many different areas. In this guide we will explore the different types of dentistry and what they involve.

Types of Dentistry: A Comprehensive Guide

Dentistry is a field of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and conditions of the oral cavity. It is a broad field that encompasses many different areas, from preventive care to restorative treatments. In this guide, we will explore the different types of dentistry and what they involve. The most common type of dentistry is general dentistry. This type of dentistry focuses on preventive care, such as regular check-ups and cleanings.

General dentists also diagnose and treat common dental problems, such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay. They may also provide restorative treatments, such as fillings, crowns, bridges, and root canals. Another type of dentistry is cosmetic dentistry. This type of dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of the teeth and smile. Cosmetic dentists may provide treatments such as teeth whitening, veneers, bonding, and reshaping.

They may also provide orthodontic treatments to straighten teeth. Endodontics is another type of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the pulp and root canal systems. Endodontists specialize in performing root canals and other procedures to save teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma. Periodontics is a type of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Periodontists specialize in treating gum disease, including scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar buildup from below the gum line. Oral surgery is another type of dentistry that focuses on surgical procedures related to the mouth and jaw. Oral surgeons specialize in performing extractions, implants, bone grafts, jaw realignment surgery, and other procedures. Prosthodontics is a type of dentistry that focuses on the replacement or restoration of missing or damaged teeth.

Prosthodontists specialize in creating custom-made prostheses such as crowns, bridges, dentures, and implants. Orthodontics is a type of dentistry that focuses on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. Orthodontists specialize in providing braces and other orthodontic appliances to straighten teeth. Pediatric dentistry is a type of dentistry that focuses on providing dental care for children. Pediatric dentists specialize in providing preventive care for children's teeth as well as diagnosing and treating common dental problems in children. Finally, there is forensic dentistry. This type of dentistry focuses on using dental evidence to solve legal cases.

Forensic dentists specialize in analyzing dental records to identify individuals or determine cause of death.