Dentists
40Dentists
There are several types of dentists who specialize in different areas of toothcare. A dentist is a doctor, qualified to practice dentistry after graduating with a degree of either Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD), Bachelor of Dentistry (BDent), or Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS). In most western countries to become a qualified dentist you must usually complete at least 8 years of study; an undergraduate degree (usually in the sciences) and 4 years dental training. At least 2 years practical experience working with patients in the educational setting during the last two years of training are required.
Dental Specialties
There are 9 Recognized Dental Specialties in the US, Canada and Australia
* Dental Public Health (study of dental epidemiology and social health policies),
* Endodontics (root canal therapy and study of diseases of the dental pulp),
* Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology (study, diagnosis, and sometimes the treatment of oral and maxillofacial related diseases),
* Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology (study and radiologic interpretation of oral and maxillofacial diseases),
* Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (extractions, facial surgery and implants),
* Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics (straightening of teeth and modification of midface and mandibular growth),
* Pediatric dentistry (i.e. dentistry for children),
* Periodontics (treatment of the periodontium, however most periodontists place implants),
* Prosthodontics (dentures, bridges and the restoration of implants. Some prosthodontists further their training in "oral and maxillofacial prosthodontics--a discipline concerned with the replacement of missing facial structures--such as ears, eyes, nose, etc.)
For more information on finding a dentist and dental procedures that can give you a healthy looking set of white teeth and a beautiful smile you should visit the following resource:
