When it comes to healthcare, it can be really difficult to know what kind of doctor you need to see. It’s not really any different when it comes to your oral healthcare. There are many different types of professionals out there, each with their own field of expertise, how do you know who to see? To help you out, let’s take a look at the specialists that deal with teeth and what they do.

General Dentist

A general dentist is your starting point. Dentists are doctors of your oral health. They are trained in examining, diagnosing, and treating diseases of your teeth, gums, tongue, and overall mouth. The hygienists in their office will clean your teeth and help you stay on track with your brushing and flossing habits. General dentists will also treat any cavities with fillings, as well as completing other restorations including veneers, crowns, and bridges. In addition, depending on the results of your exam and x-rays, they may refer you to a specialist for treatment of a specific problem.

Orthodontist (Dr. Angeloni!)

Orthodontists get the same initial training as dentists but then continue their education to specialize in correcting alignment issues, such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites; overcrowding or gaps in your teeth; crooked teeth; and misaligned jaws. You probably associate orthodontists with braces or Invisalign. And while those are the primary tools of an orthodontist, we have a few other tricks up our sleeves, too.

Since orthodontists are essentially in charge of making sure your jaw and teeth are aligned, it’s a really good idea to see one as soon as possible. Learn more about the benefits of seeing an orthodontist from an early age.

Periodontist

Periodontists deal with the tissues that surround and support your teeth–the gums! (The prefix “peri-” means “around or about”.) They’re trained in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease, as well as the application and placement of dental implants, and various cosmetic periodontal procedures.

Endodontist

As the prefix “endo-” suggests “internal or within,” endodontists are concerned with the study and treatment of what’s inside your teeth—tooth pulp. They’re highly skilled in diagnosing and treating tooth pain and performing root canals.

Oral Surgeon

An oral, or maxillofacial, surgeon performs various surgical procedures on the face, mouth, and jaw. These could be cosmetic, reconstructive, or preventative procedures. You might see this specialist to have your wisdom teeth removed.

Prosthodontist

Prosthodontists specialize in the repair or replacement of missing or damaged teeth using dental prosthetics. This means they’re really skilled with crowns, bridges, dentures, implants, and more.

Still not sure which oral health professional you need to see? Schedule a consultation with Angeloni Orthodontics today!

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Angeloni Orthodontics is a proud member of the beautiful Winter Park community! Our office prides itself on nurturing close, personal relationships with our patients while providing services–like Invisalign–to create stunning smiles. Make an appointment with Dr. Angeloni today!