A general dentist is the most popular dental practitioner. Most people visit this dental professional every six months. But at some point, you may need to see a dental specialist. Every dental professional can provide quality patient care. Even so, knowing when to consult each dentist can give you the treatments you need.
All dental professionals complete years of academic training to absorb the skills necessary to provide oral care. Each of them finishes an undergraduate degree. A doctoral education follows these years of learning. Graduating as a general dentist arms them with the training and knowledge to perform many dental procedures.
A dental specialist undergoes more years of training. A residency program usually lasts for two to four years after graduating from dental school. More years of education provide them with more detailed knowledge of specific fields of dentistry. Below are the specialties in dentistry:
A general dentist provides a collection of services. Each one aims to maintain a patient’s oral health. This professional can perform preventive treatments that protect one’s mouth from diseases. A physical exam can spot discolorations and irregularities. Diagnostic imaging can check the structures underneath the gumline.
Restorative treatments can rebuild the damaged dental structures. Providing dental veneers and implants can bring dramatic improvements. Restorative procedures can also bring back the balance to the appearance of the teeth and gums. Cosmetic dental procedures can enhance the appearance of one’s smile.
A dental specialist focuses on complex treatments. The steps in these interventions involve intensive training to execute. One dental specialist can concentrate on realigning teeth. Another can treat advanced gum disease. A patient who needs a root canal treatment will go to a dental professional who focuses on the internal dental structures.
People who want to maintain good oral health should visit a general dentist for routine checkups. This dental professional can detect the earliest signs of oral issues. This dentist can recommend the right treatments if there are identified issues. These treatments include dental fillings or removable dentures. Preventing more serious oral problems is also a priority for a general dentist.
Patients with complex dental issues need a dental professional who knows that problem well. A dental specialist can provide complicated procedures to tackle these issues. Most of the interventions are invasive. However, the specialist will guide the patient from preparation to recovery stages.
A general dentist often refers patients to a dental specialist. This provider assesses the patient’s needs and decides if a dental specialist can help. The dental specialist prepares the custom-fitted treatment plan to address the patient’s issue. These two dentists will collaborate to ensure the efficient delivery of comprehensive dental care.
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You may need to see a general dentist at first. This professional can determine the right treatment for your dental problem. A dental specialist may join your care team to target your more specific oral health issue. Working with these dental providers can be a life-changing experience.
Request an appointment or call Brighter Smile Family Dentistry & Orthodontics at 703-994-4044 for an appointment in our Sterling office.
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