Dentistry is a health profession dedicated to the assessment, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and disorders affecting the entire orofacial complex. While general dentists handle routine care, the field is organized into a highly specialized network of practitioners. These specialists receive years of advanced training, allowing them to focus on complex procedures and specific anatomical areas to preserve function, health, and appearance.
General Practice and Baseline Care
The General Dentist (GD) serves as the primary care provider for a patient’s oral health. They are the first point of contact, responsible for routine examinations, professional cleanings, and screening for common diseases like dental caries and gingivitis. GDs perform foundational restorative procedures, such as placing fillings, managing simple extractions, and providing preventative treatments like fluoride applications and protective sealants.
The two primary degrees are the Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) and the Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD), which require identical training. The general practitioner coordinates care, diagnoses complex issues, and refers patients to the appropriate specialist when a condition exceeds the scope of general practice.
Specialists Focused on Internal and Supporting Tissue Health
Endodontists
Endodontists concentrate on the soft tissue within the tooth, specifically the dental pulp, which contains the nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay or trauma, the endodontist intervenes to save the tooth. Their signature procedure is root canal therapy, where they remove the infected pulp, clean and shape the root canal system, and seal the space to prevent re-infection.
This specialty relies on advanced diagnostics, such as cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and operating microscopes, to navigate the fine anatomy of the root system. Endodontists also perform surgical procedures, such as an apicoectomy, which involves removing the tip of the tooth’s root and sealing the end when standard treatment fails.
Periodontists
Periodontists focus on the periodontium, the specialized tissues that anchor the teeth within the jawbone. These supporting structures include the gums (gingiva), alveolar bone, cementum, and the periodontal ligament. Their primary focus is the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease, ranging from mild gingivitis to severe periodontitis.
To treat deep infections, they perform scaling and root planing—a deep cleaning below the gum line to remove calculus and smooth root surfaces. For advanced bone loss, a periodontist may perform surgical procedures, including pocket reduction surgery, bone grafting, or gum grafting to cover exposed roots. Periodontists are also experts in surgically placing dental implants, relying on the health and volume of the surrounding bone.
Specialists Focused on Alignment and Replacement
Orthodontists
Orthodontists are specialists who address malocclusion, the improper alignment of teeth and jaws. Their goal is to correct bite discrepancies and reposition teeth for optimal aesthetics and function. Treatment relies on the biological principle of bone remodeling, where controlled forces applied by devices allow the tooth to move through the jawbone.
They utilize a variety of appliances, including traditional braces, clear aligners, and specialized functional devices to guide facial and jaw growth (dentofacial orthopedics). Treatment corrects issues like overbites, underbites, crossbites, and crowding. This improves a patient’s smile and makes teeth easier to clean, reducing the risk of decay and gum disease.
Prosthodontists
Prosthodontists specialize in the restoration and replacement of missing or damaged teeth and oral structures. They are highly trained in designing, manufacturing, and fitting artificial devices to restore oral function, comfort, and appearance. This includes complex restorative work such as custom crowns, bridges, veneers, and full or partial dentures.
They manage comprehensive rehabilitation cases, often coordinating multiple procedures involving dental implants, where they design the final prosthetic restoration. Prosthodontists also treat disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and handle complex cases resulting from congenital defects, trauma, or cancer.
Specialists Focused on Complex Surgery and Specific Populations
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon (OMS) is the surgical specialist of the head, neck, mouth, and jaw. Their extensive training involves a hospital-based residency, providing expertise in general anesthesia and complex surgical techniques. OMS procedures range from complex wisdom tooth extractions to advanced reconstructive surgery.
They manage facial trauma, repairing fractures of the jaw, cheekbones, and eye orbits. OMS specialists also perform corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) to treat severe skeletal and bite discrepancies. Additionally, they are involved in the surgical placement of dental implants and the removal of tumors or cysts in the jaw and mouth.
Pediatric Dentists
Pediatric dentists focus on the oral health of children from infancy through adolescence, including those with special health care needs. Their training emphasizes child psychology and behavior management to ensure a comfortable and positive dental experience. They monitor the growth and development of a child’s teeth and jaws, allowing for early intervention.
A primary goal is preventive care, addressing issues like early childhood caries, which is five times more common than asthma in children. Pediatric dentists advise on nutrition, perform cleanings and fluoride treatments, and counsel on oral habits like thumb-sucking. It is recommended that a child has their first dental visit by their first birthday to establish a dental home.