Dental Specialties

Endodontists are dentists who deal with problems in the nerves within teeth. They perform procedures called root canals, surgical root procedures like removing the tip of the root, or root amputation where one of the roots on a tooth is removed.

Oral surgeons are capable of a number of surgeries in and about the head area like extractions, soft tissue biopsies, and jaw and facial surgeries. They are also able to repair soft tissue problems like cleft palates or removing oral tumors. Most recognized as an oral surgeon’s specialty is taking care of impacted teeth—wisdom teeth are common—where soft tissue and overlying bone needs to be removed to extract the tooth.

Orthodontists are responsible for straightening teeth with a variety of tools like bands, wires, elastics, headgear and other appliances. Improved appearance of teeth and bite can be achieved in both children and adults.

Prosthodontists are specialists who focus on mouth restoration and rehabilitation. Common procedures include crowns, bridges, dentures, implant reconstruction, and cosmetic dentistry. They are treat pain disorders that are connected with the head, jaw, neck, and shoulder areas.

A pediatric dentist specializes in children from the age of one or two until they reach early adulthood. They are trained to look for and address specific childhood problems surround decay, missing, crowned, and crooked teeth.

Periodontists focuses on the soft tissue in the mouth and bone of the teeth. Two common problems periodontists deal with are gingivitis and periodontitis, which involves gingival tissue and bone disease. Common procedures of this specialist include pocket cleanings, root planning, soft tissue and bone grafting, and soft tissue recontouring and removal.