Dental care includes a range of professionals and specialties. Your general dentist is often the starting point, coordinating preventive care and referring you when a condition needs focused treatment.
1. General dentist
General dentists provide exams, cleanings, fillings, crowns, preventive guidance, and many other everyday services.
2. Pediatric dentist
Pediatric dentists focus on the oral-health needs of infants, children, and teens, including growth and behavior guidance.
3. Orthodontist
Orthodontists diagnose and correct bite and alignment concerns using braces, clear aligners, and related approaches.
4. Endodontist
Endodontists specialize in the inside of the tooth and commonly provide root canal treatment for complex cases.
5. Periodontist
Periodontists focus on gum health and the structures that support teeth. They may also place dental implants.
6. Oral and maxillofacial surgeon
These specialists perform procedures such as wisdom tooth removal, surgical extractions, and certain jaw treatments.
7. Prosthodontist
Prosthodontists restore and replace teeth with options such as crowns, bridges, dentures, and implant-supported restorations.
8. Oral pathologist
Oral pathologists help diagnose diseases affecting the mouth, jaw, and related tissues, often by reviewing biopsies and lab findings.
Choosing the right place to start
If you are unsure which specialist you need, begin with a general dental examination. Your dentist can explain your options and arrange a referral when needed.