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 types of practices, from general dentistry to specialized areas such as orthodontics and periodontics. In this guide, we will explore the different types of dentistry practices and how they can help you maintain your oral health. General dentistry is the most common type of dental practice. General dentists provide preventive care, such as regular check-ups and cleanings, as well as restorative treatments such as fillings and crowns.
They also diagnose and treat oral diseases, such as cavities and gum disease. General dentists may also provide cosmetic treatments, such as teeth whitening and veneers.
Orthodontics
is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. Orthodontists use braces, retainers, and other appliances to move teeth into their proper positions. Orthodontic treatment can improve the appearance of your smile and also help to prevent dental problems in the future.Periodontics
is another specialized field of dentistry that focuses on the health of the gums and other structures that support the teeth.Periodontists diagnose and treat gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. They also perform procedures such as scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar buildup from below the gum line.
Endodontics
is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the dental pulp. Endodontists perform root canals to remove infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth. This procedure can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted.Prosthodontics
is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on restoring missing teeth with artificial replacements.Prosthodontists design and fabricate crowns, bridges, dentures, and other prostheses to replace missing teeth. They also specialize in implant placement, which involves surgically placing titanium posts into the jawbone to support artificial teeth.
Oral surgery
is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on surgical procedures related to the mouth, jaw, and face. Oral surgeons perform procedures such as wisdom tooth extractions, jaw surgery, facial reconstruction, and implant placement. These are just some of the different types of dentistry practices available today. Each type of practice has its own unique set of skills and expertise that can help you maintain your oral health.If you have any questions about which type of practice is right for you, be sure to speak with your dentist or another healthcare professional.