Everyone knows that dentistry applies to the treatment of teeth and gums. This treatment mostly refers to curing diseases, repairing teeth, and replacing broken ones. You may think that this is a linear field; however, there is more to the science of dentistry than you may think.
There are many different sectors of dentistry that you can go into, and they all serve a unique purpose. As such, let’s look at each field to see why someone would elect to pursue it professionally.
General Dentists
The average person should visit a general dentist, or DDS, once every six months. These are professionals who can perform a wide range of tasks related to your teeth. This includes cleaning the patient’s teeth, diagnosing any diseases, and fitting dentures.
A general dentist will recommend keeping snacks and junk food to a bare minimum. Not only are they unhealthy, but they are also harmful to your dental health. If you do not keep an eye on your habit of eating junk food, then you might have to look for the best teeth-whitening toothpaste to save you from a bad smile and occasional but intense dental pain.
The main reason for seeing a general dentist is to prevent damage and tooth loss.
A general dentist needs to have a PhD or equivalent to be able to practice at this level.
Endodontist
Endodontists focus on diagnosing and treating problems within the inner structure of the tooth, especially the dental pulp. They are most commonly associated with root canal treatments, which help preserve natural teeth that might otherwise need extraction. These procedures require a high level of precision and advanced techniques. Specialists often rely on modern instruments such as an endodontic rotary file to efficiently clean, shape, and prepare root canals, ensuring effective treatment and long-term oral health outcomes.
Orthodontist
The third most well-known type of dentist is the orthodontist. Most people encounter these professionals at a teenage level, as they are the dental experts responsible for straightening teeth.
This practice requires further orthodontic courses beyond basic dentistry training. This is because orthodontists work in a field that requires them to fix up jawlines, an incredibly delicate science. Anyone searching for a comprehensive orthodontist course should be aware that it is a highly specialised sector of dentistry. However, there are always people out there who are willing to train you, such as the London Dental Institute.
Maxillofacial Surgeon
The three fields of dentistry mentioned above are primarily focused on basic treatments, but surgical work does occasionally arise. However, if you want to focus primarily on surgery, consider becoming a maxillofacial surgeon.
This field encompasses diagnosing and treating patients with dental issues, but also extends beyond the jaw and mouth to include the face and neck. A job like this is highly academic and requires four years of dental training, in addition to a four-year surgical residency. While this field has a focus on dentistry, there are other operations that you will perform, such as tumour removals and facial reconstruction surgeries.
Hygienists
A dental hygienist has likely seen you at some point in your life. These are the unsung heroes of the dental profession, often overlooked. A dental hygienist acts as the general dentist’s assistant, providing cleansing treatments and diagnosing issues that relate to the teeth and gums.
A hygienist does not need a Ph.D. to perform their duties; however, they do need a degree in dental hygiene. There will always be a need for hygienists, making it a career worth considering if you’re unsure about lengthy periods of education.
Summary
The work of a dentist is one of the most important in our modern society. However, don’t let this fact distract you from the fact that there are other equally important jobs in this field. Make sure you have done your research before choosing a path.
