Dentistry is the branch of medicine sciences that deals with diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases related to teeth. Broadly speaking, there are two types of dentist i.e. General Dentist and Specialist Dentist. General dentist complete four-year doctorate degree in dentistry, referred to as Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D). Along with this, they also need to qualify state or national board examinations. Specialist Dentist, after completing the same educational qualification as general dentist, undergoes training in specialized field of dentistry. Mostly, dentists specialize in one field or another.

We have listed different types of dentists to help you understand their field of specialization:

• Cosmetic Dentist: Cosmetic dentist deals with the appearance of teeth and improving patient’s smile. Cosmetic dental treatments correct chipped, cracked, discolored, and unevenly spaced teeth. Some cosmetic dental procedures used are porcelain veneers and teeth whitening.



• Endodontist: Endodontist treats inner portion of the teeth diseases. The dental treatment deals with root canals and treats diseases of the pulp and nerves inside the tooth.



• General Dentist: General dentist deals with the oral health of your teeth. The dental procedures used include semi-annual cleanings, fillings, crowns, and bridges.



• Oral Surgeon: Oral surgeon deals with dental surgery of mouth and jaw.



• Orthodontist: Orthodontist deals with the alignment of teeth and procedures include braces, and retainers.



• Pediatric Dentist: Pediatric dentist deals with general dentistry for infants and children. They also deal with dental problems of adolescents and patients who have psychological, physical, or emotional problems.



• Periodontist: Periodontist deals with the diseases of the soft tissues (gums) and bone that surround and support the teeth. Its procedures include periodontal surgery.



• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon: Oral and Maxillofacial surgeons deal with reconstructive surgery including injuries and defects of the mouth and jaw. They are also specialized in performing complex tooth extractions.



• Oral Pathologist: Oral pathologists deal with identifying, diagnosing, examining, and treating diseases of the facial part.



• Prosthodontist: Prosthodontists deal with designing, construction, and fitting replacement teeth. In general terms, they fill the gaps in teeth dentures by implants, bridgework and dentures.



• Oral Medicine Specialist: Oral medicine specialist deals with dentistry medicine. They specialize in dentistry as well as medicine.