122300000X Dentist

Definition: A dentist is a person qualified by a doctorate in dental surgery (D.D.S.) or dental medicine (D.M.D.), licensed by the state to practice dentistry, and practicing within the scope of that license. There is no difference between the two degrees: dentists who have a DMD or DDS have the same education. Universities have the prerogative to determine what degree is awarded. Both degrees use the same curriculum requirements set by the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation. Generally, three or more years of undergraduate education plus four years of dental school is required to graduate and become a general dentist. State licensing boards accept either degree as equivalent, and both degrees allow licensed individuals to practice the same scope of general dentistry. Additional post-graduate training is required to become a dental specialist.
Grouping: Dental Providers
Classification: Dentist
Section: Individual
Notes: Source: Council on Dental Education and Licensure, American Dental Association

Specializations

Dental Anesthesiology

A dentist who specializes in providing anesthesia and sedation for dental procedures, ensuring patients are comfortable and pain-free during treatment. They help manage anxiety, provide sedation for complex or lengthy dental work, and monitor patients’ safety throughout procedures. Patients can expect expert care in managing pain and anxiety for procedures such as tooth extractions, surgeries, and other dental treatments that may require anesthesia.

Public Health Dentistry

A healthcare provider who focuses on improving dental health for entire communities rather than individual patients. They work to prevent tooth decay and gum disease through public education, research, and organizing dental health programs. Patients can expect services like school dental screenings, community fluoride programs, and information about maintaining good oral hygiene to reduce dental problems in the population.

A healthcare provider who specializes in diagnosing and treating problems inside the tooth, especially the dental pulp and root canals. They commonly perform root canal treatments, address tooth pain, treat infections at the root of teeth, and help save teeth that might otherwise need to be removed. Patients can expect careful evaluation, pain management, and procedures to preserve natural teeth whenever possible.

General Practice Dentistry

A healthcare provider who diagnoses, treats, and manages the overall oral health of patients of all ages. General practice dentists perform routine check-ups, cleanings, fillings, and extractions, treat cavities and gum disease, and provide preventive care and education. Patients can expect services such as X-rays, sealants, fluoride treatments, and referrals to dental specialists when needed.

Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology Dentistry

A healthcare provider who specializes in diagnosing and managing diseases of the mouth, jaws, and face. They examine tissue samples, perform biopsies, and use various tests to identify conditions such as oral cancer, cysts, infections, and other unusual growths or sores in the mouth. Patients can expect thorough evaluations, clear explanations of test results, and guidance on treatment options for oral and maxillofacial diseases.

Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology Dentistry

A healthcare provider who specializes in taking and interpreting dental and facial X-rays and other imaging to help diagnose and manage conditions affecting the mouth, jaw, face, and teeth. They help detect problems such as tumors, infections, cysts, bone diseases, and dental issues. Patients can expect this provider to review imaging results and work with other dental specialists to plan treatment.

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (Dentist)

A healthcare provider who specializes in diagnosing and treating problems of the mouth, jaw, face, and neck. They perform surgeries such as removing impacted teeth, treating facial injuries, correcting jaw misalignment, and removing tumors or cysts. Patients can expect care for conditions like wisdom tooth issues, facial pain, broken jaws, and other oral or facial concerns, often involving both functional and cosmetic improvements.

Oral Medicine Dentistry

A healthcare provider who specializes in diagnosing and managing diseases, pain, and disorders of the mouth and jaw, especially for patients with complex medical conditions. They treat issues like mouth sores, oral infections, dry mouth, and oral complications from cancer therapy or autoimmune diseases. Patients can expect thorough evaluation, personalized treatment plans, and coordination of care with other medical specialists for conditions affecting the mouth and facial area.

Orofacial Pain Dentistry

A healthcare provider who specializes in diagnosing and treating long-lasting pain in the face, mouth, jaw, or head. They help patients with conditions like jaw joint problems (TMJ), facial nerve pain, headaches related to the mouth or jaw, and other chronic facial pain. Patients can expect a thorough evaluation, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing care to manage pain and improve daily function.

Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics Dentistry

A healthcare provider who specializes in diagnosing, preventing, and treating problems with the alignment of teeth and jaws. They use braces, clear aligners, and other devices to straighten teeth, correct bite issues, and guide proper jaw growth. Patients can expect care for conditions like crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, and other bite or facial structure problems to improve both appearance and oral function.

Pediatric Dentistry

A healthcare provider who specializes in caring for the dental needs of infants, children, and teenagers, including those with special health needs. They provide regular check-ups, cleanings, cavity treatments, fluoride treatments, sealants, and guidance on proper brushing and diet. They also treat dental injuries and manage issues like tooth pain, gum disease, and early orthodontic needs, helping children maintain healthy teeth as they grow.

A healthcare provider who specializes in caring for the gums and bone that support the teeth. They help prevent, diagnose, and treat conditions like gum disease, gum recession, and bone loss around teeth. Patients can expect treatments such as deep cleanings, gum surgery, dental implants, and advice on keeping the gums and supporting tissues healthy.

A healthcare provider who specializes in restoring and replacing missing or damaged teeth to improve oral function, comfort, and appearance. They create and fit dentures, dental implants, crowns, and bridges, and help patients with problems related to tooth loss, jaw issues, or facial injuries. Patients can expect personalized solutions to restore their ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently.

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