Dental Specialist Near You
Like many medical professions, dentistry has many sub-specialties. Each specialty involves a somewhat different portion of the teeth, mouth and gums. The type of dentist that you need for a given medical condition depends upon the specifics of that condition. Many times, your dentist will refer you to a specialist if you require certain types of dental care.
What Is an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon?
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons specialize in treating problems involving the soft and hard tissues of the face, jaws and mouth. You may receive a referral to this type of specialist if you require a complex tooth extraction.
Other procedures commonly performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons include:
- Corrective jaw surgery
- Cleft lip/palate surgery
- Placement of dental implants
- Treatment for some forms of oral cancer
What Is a Periodontist?
Periodontists are specialists focusing upon the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Periodontist commonly treat patients for gum disease.
Why Is Your Dentist Referring You to a Periodontist?
The most common reason why dentists refer their patients to periodontists is for the treatment of severe periodontal disease, popularly known as gum disease.
What Is an Endodontist?
Endodontists are root canal specialists. Although most dentist in weymouth can perform root canal therapy, endodontists perform many more of these common treatments.
What Is a Prosthodontist?
Prosthodontists specialize in restoring and replacing lost or damaged teeth. They are sometimes known as the “architects of the smile,” and are highly trained in helping patients achieve a more beautiful and functional smile. They also deal with the lips, gums and facial features.
Common procedures performed by prosthodontists include:
- Dental implants
- Porcelain veneers
- Dental crowns
- Fixed bridges
- Dentures
What Is a Pediatric Dentist?
Pediatric dentists specialize in providing dental care for young children, from infancy through the teenage years.
If children do not receive adequate dental care, they may face tooth decay and dental conditions leading to a lifetime of pain and complications.
Pediatric dentists provide services like:
- Infant oral health exams
- Preventive dental care, like fluoride treatments and dental cleaning
- Repair of tooth decay
- Dental care for injuries like displaced, fractured, or knocked-out teeth
What Is an Orthodontist?
Orthodontists are dental specialists involved with preventing, diagnosing, and treating facial irregularities. They often provide treatments like braces and Invisalign for crooked or misaligned teeth, as well as correcting bad bites and ensuring that the jaws are aligned correctly.
The goal of orthodontic treatment is to enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of the teeth and jaws.
For Additional Information
If you have a dental condition and are unsure what type of dental specialist can provide you with a diagnosis and treatment, please contact us to request more information about the treatments and procedures offered by dental specialists.
Accepting New Patients and Offering Dental Emergency Treatment
FAQ
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons: Handle complex tooth extractions, jaw surgeries, cleft lip/palate procedures, and some oral cancer treatments.
- Periodontists: Focus on diagnosing and treating gum diseases.
- Endodontists: Specialize in root canal treatments.
- Prosthodontists: Expert in restoring and replacing teeth with crowns, bridges, dentures, and implants.
- Pediatric Dentists: Provide dental care tailored for children.
- Orthodontists: Correct misaligned teeth and jaws using braces or Invisalign.
Referrals are typically made when a dental condition requires specialized knowledge or treatment beyond general dentistry. For instance, severe gum disease may necessitate a periodontist’s expertise.
You can contact Weymouth Dental Arts directly at (781) 331-6666 to request a referral or appointment with a specialist. They will guide you through the process and coordinate the necessary care.
Many dental insurance plans cover specialist referrals and treatments, but coverage varies. It’s advisable to check with your insurance provider to understand your benefits and any potential out-of-pocket costs.